The perfect standing desk

As families prepare for back-to-school season, Hulala’s thoughtfully designed furniture helps create flexible, organized spaces for homework, school projects, and collaborative learning. The Veritas 360° Rotating Standing Desk features a rotating side desktop that easily adapts for independent study or working side-by-side with classmates, siblings, or parents. Integrated power, hidden cable management, and enclosed storage keep supplies neatly organized, while whisper-quiet electric height adjustment (31″–49″), three memory presets, and a sedentary reminder promote comfort during long study sessions. Built with durable engineered wood and metal, the spacious desktop supports up to 200 lbs and is backed by a comprehensive five-year warranty.

Use Code: MYHULALA12 for 12% off

The best in back to school kids fashion

Appaman’s New Arrivals bring fresh, playful style to kids’ fashion with irresistibly soft fabrics and standout prints. Known for bold colors, comfortable fits, and durable construction, Appaman designs clothing that keeps up with active kids while still looking effortlessly cool. From graphic tees and joggers to versatile outerwear, each piece is crafted for everyday comfort and easy movement. Parents love the machine-washable, kid-tested fabrics, while little ones love the fun, expressive designs. Whether dressing for school, play, or special occasions, Appaman’s latest collection offers modern, stylish essentials that make getting dressed enjoyable for the whole family.

Use Code: FIRSTDAYAKA20 20% off a full-price order 

Keep your kids safe this year

The Bark Watch helps kids stay connected while giving parents tools to help keep them safer- without the distractions and risks that can come with a smartphone. Real-time GPS location tracking lets parents check their child’s location from the Bark parent app, while the SOS button gives kids a quick way to reach help in an emergency.Built-in content monitoring scans for potential concerns like bullying, predators, and self-harm, alerting parents when something may need their attention. Kids can talk and text with approved contacts, without games, social media, or web browsing competing for their attention.Durable and water-resistant, the Bark Watch gives parents greater peace of mind while giving kids a little more independence.

Use Code: B2SCHOOL30 (valid through 8/31/26)

Recycled Double Pocket Backpack 

Made from recycled water bottles, our medium-size Recycled Double Pocket Backpack is a practical choice for kids on the move. With its spacious two-compartment design, it offers ample storage for school supplies, snacks, and more. Plus multiple pockets, clips, and holders make it easy to keep their belongings organized. Adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit, making this backpack an ideal companion for any adventure. This backpack comes in 2 sizes with the Small size being perfect for Kindergarten through 2nd grade and the larger size for children 2nd grade and up.

A Must-Have Hair Conditioner: Silk’e Leave-In Conditioner

Hydrate, smooth, and fight frizz with the Silk’e Leave-In Conditioner. Made with jojoba oil and aloe extract, this lightweight formula helps soften, nourish, and refresh dry or damaged-looking hair without flaky buildup or residue. Perfect for making busy back-to-school mornings quicker and easier, it leaves hair feeling softer, smoother, and more manageable. sleekehair.com

Readers can receive 50% off the Silk’e Leave-In Conditioner with the exclusive code BTS50.

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DREAM PAIRS KIDS Lightweight Slip On Sneakers

Designed for kids who are always on the move, DREAM PAIRS KIDS Lightweight Slip-On Sneakers deliver effortless comfort, independence, and all-day playability. Weighing only 3.7 ounces per shoe, these ultra-light sneakers help reduce foot fatigue so little explorers can run, jump, and play freely from the playground to family outings. The breathable mesh upper and airflow channels help keep feet cool and comfortable, even during active days, while the easy slip-on design allows kids to put them on independently and build confidence with every step. A flexible forefoot construction supports natural movement, and a reinforced toe cap adds protection against everyday bumps. Lightweight, practical, and adventure-ready, these sneakers are the perfect everyday companion for growing feet.

Fight the back to school sicknesses with Boiron USA

Back-to-school season brings new routines, busy schedules — and sometimes flu-like symptoms. At the first sign of body aches, headache, fever, chills, or fatigue, reach for Oscillococcinum® and feel like yourself again. Brought to you by @BoironUSA. Oscillo helps reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms.* The convenient meltaway pellets come in single-dose tubes and dissolve in the mouth, making them easy to take at home or on the go. Recommended for everyone ages 2 and up, Oscillo is non-drowsy and has no known interactions with other medications or supplements. Learn more at Oscillo.com.

*These “Uses” have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Use Code: OscilloBTS26 for 20% off any Oscillo product on BoironUSA.com. Valid August through November 2026.

Be prepared for school sports

Shibumi Park Vista™ (MSRP $240) reinvents off-beach shade. At under 5 lbs, it’s up to 10x lighter than traditional 30-50 lb pop-up tents yet sets up solo in two minutes — no wrestling poles or waiting on a second person. It packs into a slim 26″ bag for easy trunk storage, shades up to four people comfortably, and features UPF 50+ water-resistant fabric with an adjustable canopy that tracks the sun. Modular by design, multiple units connect for scalable coverage at sidelines, parks, and outdoor events.

Easy feeding options

Haakaa creates practical, thoughtfully designed products that help make everyday parenting simpler. For the back-to-school season, the Haakaa Silicone Yummy Pouch offers a convenient way to pack purées, yoghurt, smoothies and more. This reusable 4.5 oz pouch gives parents flexibility over food and ingredient choices while helping reduce spending on individually packaged snacks and cut down on packaging waste. Its leakproof lid, variable-flow spout and dishwasher-safe, food-grade silicone design make feeding, carrying and cleaning easy.

Must Haves for your school supply list

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Stainless Steel 13 oz Food Jar (SDS Direct) – Reusable, eco-friendly food jar keeps food hot or cold. Premium food grade 18/8 stainless steel, contains no phthalates, BPA, lead, or PVC.  $19.99 

Daniel Goes to School (Simon & Schuster) – Daniel learns that “grown-ups come back” and has lots of fun with his teacher and classmates. Ages 2-4, $12.99 

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Mini Backpack 12” 3D Character Plush Bookbag (Intimo) – Backpack features 3D Daniel Tiger face with dimensional ears, embroidered facial details, two zippered compartments, and padded adjustable shoulder straps. Ages 3+, $39.99 

Get the must-have back-to-school essentials – paper towels that handles every mess busy school days brings

For families this back-to-school season, stock up on Viva Signature Cloth Triple Roll (129 sheets), which offer more sheets per roll and fewer replacements during hectic school days. Viva Signature Cloth is cloth-like, making it tough on sticky messes like apple juice spills and crafts, while soft enough for kids’ hands and faces. 

A bathroom must-have!

The Squatty Potty Toilet Stool is designed to help support a more natural, comfortable posture while using the bathroom. By elevating your feet, it helps align your body for a more complete and efficient experience. It is clinically proven to decrease time spent on the toilet and increase elimination to feel emptier! It’s sleek, compact design fits neatly around most toilets, making it an easy addition to any bathroom. Durable, easy to clean, and available in multiple styles and heights, it’s a simple everyday wellness upgrade for the whole family.

Squatty Potty Flushable Wipes provide a gentle, refreshing clean with every use. Made with plant-based fibers and infused with soothing aloe and vitamin E, they’re soft on skin while helping you feel fresh and confident. Septic-safe and designed to break down after flushing, they’re a convenient addition to any bathroom routine. Pair them with your favorite Squatty Potty product for an elevated bathroom experience.promo code BACK2STOOL

The school year always seems to arrive faster than expected, but having the right products on hand can help make those early mornings, homework sessions, and after-school activities run more smoothly. Whether you’re checking off your family’s shopping list or looking for a few new favorites, these back-to-school essentials are designed to simplify everyday life. Here’s to a successful, organized, and exciting new school year!

The post Back to School Must-Haves for the New School Year! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Once upon a time, being 10 years old meant collecting Lip Smackers, riding your bike until the streetlights came on, and maybe sneaking a little mascara from your mom’s makeup bag when she wasn’t looking.

Today?

Ten-year-olds are asking for luxury skincare, watching “Get Ready With Me” videos before middle school, debating anti-aging ingredients, and requesting birthday trips to Sephora.

Somewhere between slime kits and serums, childhood seems to have changed.

Parents everywhere are asking the same question:

Are kids growing up too fast?

When Did Childhood Start Looking So… Adult?

Not that long ago, most kids wanted toys, craft kits, and whatever the hottest game happened to be that year.

Now many are asking for skincare refrigerators, $40 lip oils, designer sneakers, expensive perfumes, matching workout sets, and elaborate skincare routines they learned from TikTok.

There’s nothing wrong with kids wanting nice things. Every generation has had its trends.

What feels different today is how closely those trends mirror adult lifestyles.

Instead of pretending to be grown-ups for an afternoon, many children seem to be adopting adult interests years earlier than previous generations did.

It’s enough to make a lot of parents wonder if childhood is quietly disappearing.

Welcome to the World of “Sephora Kids”

If you’ve walked into Sephora recently, you’ve probably seen them.

Groups of tweens carefully reading ingredient labels and discussing retinol, peptides, niacinamide, and vitamin C with the confidence of licensed estheticians.

Many are building skincare routines before they’ve even started high school.

Dermatologists have increasingly spoken out about the trend, explaining that while simple skincare habits like washing your face, moisturizing, and wearing sunscreen are healthy, many anti-aging products aren’t designed for young skin. In some cases, using powerful ingredients too early can actually irritate healthy skin instead of helping it.

The goal isn’t to shame kids for liking skincare.

It’s to ask why anti-aging has become part of childhood in the first place.

Social Media Changed the Rules

Kids have always wanted to grow up.

Most adults remember borrowing Mom’s lipstick, trying on high heels, or pretending to be older than they really were.

The difference now is that children aren’t just copying older siblings or celebrities on magazine covers.

They’re watching millions of influencers every single day.

Algorithms serve an endless stream of beauty routines, shopping hauls, fashion trends, luxury lifestyles, and perfectly curated bedrooms.

When those images become the standard, it’s easy for children to believe they should already look, dress, and live like adults.

Social media didn’t invent the desire to grow up.

It just put that desire on fast forward.

It’s Bigger Than Makeup

The conversation goes far beyond skincare.

Parents are noticing children becoming interested in things that once felt reserved for teenagers or adults.

Designer handbags.

Luxury fragrances.

Perfectly coordinated outfits.

Daily beauty routines.

Expensive electronics.

Aesthetic bedrooms.

Social media popularity.

Even everyday language has changed.

Words and phrases like “glow up,” “clean girl,” “morning shed,” and “hot girl walk” have become part of conversations among children who haven’t even started high school.

When childhood starts looking more like influencer culture than backyard adventures, it’s understandable why parents are asking questions.

Are Parents Helping Create the Pressure?

This may be the hardest part of the conversation.

Parents naturally want to give their children opportunities they never had.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting your child to feel confident, stylish, or included.

But social media has quietly raised the bar for everyone.

Birthday parties become productions.

Backpacks become fashion statements.

Morning routines become content.

Instead of comparing ourselves to neighbors, we’re comparing ourselves to millions of families online.

Without even realizing it, adults sometimes reinforce the idea that growing up faster is something to celebrate.

What Happened to Just Being a Kid?

Ironically, many of the things adults miss most about childhood are the very things kids seem to be moving away from.

Riding bikes until dinner.

Building forts in the backyard.

Collecting rocks for no particular reason.

Playing board games.

Making friendship bracelets.

Getting dirty outside.

Being bored enough to invent your own fun.

Those moments didn’t require expensive products, followers, or perfectly curated photos.

They just required time.

Finding the Middle Ground

This isn’t about banning Sephora or deleting TikTok.

It’s also not about pretending every trend is harmful.

Every generation grows up differently, and change is inevitable.

The real challenge for today’s parents is deciding which parts of growing up are simply evolving with the times and which parts are worth slowing down.

Teaching healthy skincare instead of chasing anti-aging.

Encouraging confidence instead of comparison.

Prioritizing real friendships alongside online connections.

Making room for imagination before adulthood arrives.

None of those lessons come in a trendy package.

But they may matter far more in the long run.

Maybe That’s the Real Question

Perhaps the issue isn’t whether kids are growing up too fast.

Maybe it’s whether adults have become too comfortable inviting children into a world that was designed for grown-ups.

Eventually they’ll worry about wrinkles.

Eventually they’ll care about luxury brands.

Eventually they’ll have jobs, responsibilities, bills, and plenty of reasons to wish they could be kids again.

There is no prize for getting there first.

Childhood isn’t something children should be rushing through.

It’s something they only get to experience once.

The post Are Kids Growing Up Too Fast? appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Family vacations are supposed to be about making memories. Somewhere between comparing hotel reviews, figuring out flight schedules, researching kid-friendly activities, and wondering if you remembered everyone’s favorite snacks, that dream vacation can start to feel more like a full-time project than a relaxing escape.

Let’s be honest. Vacation planning isn’t always fun. It often means dozens of browser tabs open at once, group texts asking, “Does this hotel look okay?” and at least one family member suggesting, “Maybe we should just stay home this year.”

The good news is that planning an unforgettable family vacation doesn’t have to fall entirely on your shoulders.

More parents are discovering the benefits of working with a travel advisor who handles the research, planning, and countless little details that can quickly become overwhelming. Instead of spending hours comparing destinations, reading hundreds of reviews, and trying to coordinate every reservation, families can focus on the exciting part: making memories together.

One travel agency helping families do exactly that isYou Pack, We Plan.

With a name that perfectly sums up its mission, You Pack, We Plan specializes in taking the stress out of vacation planning. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all trips, the agency creates personalized travel experiences built around each family’s interests, budget, and travel goals. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on a beautiful beach, setting sail on a family cruise, exploring a new city, or visiting a favorite theme park, every itinerary is thoughtfully customized to fit your family’s unique style.

One of the biggest advantages of working with a travel advisor is having someone who has already done the homework for you.

Instead of spending your evenings trying to figure out which resort is actually kid-friendly or whether a destination is worth the price, you have an experienced professional who understands family travel and can recommend options based on firsthand knowledge and expertise. That guidance can save hours of research while helping you avoid common travel headaches before your trip even begins.

The little details often make the biggest difference.

Maybe it’s choosing flights that work better around nap schedules. Maybe it’s finding a resort with an incredible kids’ club so parents can enjoy a quiet dinner together. Maybe it’s booking connecting rooms, arranging airport transportation, or recommending hidden family attractions that don’t always appear in online searches. Those thoughtful touches can transform a good vacation into one your family will remember for years.

Another benefit parents appreciate is having someone to turn to if plans unexpectedly change.

Travel doesn’t always go exactly as expected. Flights get delayed, weather happens, and sometimes schedules shift without warning. Having a travel advisor means you aren’t navigating those surprises alone. Instead of spending valuable vacation time waiting on hold with customer service, you have someone helping you find solutions so you can get back to enjoying your trip.

Perhaps the greatest gift of all is peace of mind.

When someone else is managing the logistics, parents are free to focus on what really matters. Watching your kids experience something new for the first time. Sharing laughs over dinner after a day of exploring. Collecting photos, stories, and memories that will be talked about long after everyone returns home.

And let’s be realistic. Someone will probably still forget to pack something.

It might be sunscreen. It might be a favorite stuffed animal. It might even be your phone charger. But those little moments become much easier to laugh about when everything else has already been carefully planned.

Family vacations shouldn’t leave you feeling exhausted before you even leave the driveway. Sometimes the best way to create a stress-free getaway is simply letting an expert handle the planning while you focus on the fun.

If your family is dreaming about its next adventure, it may be time to pack your bags and let someone else handle the details.

Learn more and start planning your next family vacation today:

You Pack, We Plan

The post The Secret to Stress-Free Family Vacations Starts Before You Leave Home appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The brands on this list all have one thing in common. They were created by moms who saw a need, believed there had to be a better solution, and built companies that are now helping families around the world. From educational toys and skincare to travel essentials and healthy foods, these are brands worth discovering if they’re not already on your radar.

Here are ten mom-founded companies we think deserve a closer look.

1. Lovevery

If you’re looking for toys that do more than simply keep little ones busy, Lovevery is a brand you’ll want to explore. Co-founder Jessica Rolph was inspired to create the company after researching early childhood brain development and wanting to give parents confidence that they were choosing the right toys for each stage. Lovevery’s beautifully designed Play Kits are created by child development experts and match your child’s age and milestones, making learning feel fun and natural. Their collection also includes books, play gyms, and developmental resources that grow with your child. It’s one of those brands that makes playtime feel purposeful without sacrificing fun.

lovevery.com

2. Tubby Todd Bath Co.

Sensitive skin is something many parents know all too well, which is exactly why Tubby Todd Bath Co. has earned such a loyal following. Founder Andrea Faulkner Williams launched the company after searching for gentle, effective skincare products her own family could trust. Today, the brand is known for clean, nourishing ingredients and family-friendly formulas that are safe for babies, kids, and adults alike. Their All Over Ointment has become a customer favorite for everything from dry patches to irritated skin, and it’s easy to see why so many families keep it stocked at home. If gentle skincare is a priority, Tubby Todd is well worth adding to your routine.

tubbytodd.com

3. KiwiCo

Few things are more rewarding than watching a child build, create, and discover something new. Engineer and mom Sandra Oh Lin founded KiwiCo after realizing how difficult it was for busy parents to find engaging, hands-on learning activities without spending hours planning them. Today, the company offers age-based STEAM crates filled with projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving through play. From toddlers to teens, every box arrives packed with everything kids need to start building and exploring right away. It’s a fun way to encourage screen-free learning while creating meaningful family moments together.

kiwico.com

4. Once Upon a Farm

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when nutritious options are convenient enough for busy families. Mom Cassandra Curtis founded Once Upon a Farm after wanting fresher, more wholesome food choices for her daughter, and the company has continued to grow with a mission of making better nutrition accessible for children. The brand offers organic, cold-pressed pouches, refrigerated snacks, smoothies, and meals made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Their products are designed for babies, toddlers, and even older kids, making them a great addition to lunchboxes or busy afternoons on the go. It’s a brand that proves healthy choices can also be delicious.

onceuponafarmorganics.com

5. Lugabug

Traveling with young children isn’t always easy, but Lugabug was created to make airport adventures a little less stressful. Mom Jennie and her husband came up with the idea after turning a rolling suitcase into a makeshift seat for their young daughter while rushing through the airport. That clever solution eventually became the Lugabug, a compact travel seat that securely attaches to your carry-on luggage, giving tired little travelers a comfortable place to ride. It’s lightweight, simple to use, and perfect for families who travel often or have little ones who tire easily during long walks through terminals. If family vacations are on your calendar, this is one travel accessory you’ll be glad you discovered.

lugabug.com

6. The House of Noa

Creating a beautiful home doesn’t have to mean sacrificing practicality, especially when little ones are part of the picture. Mom Bethany Crystal founded The House of Noa after searching for stylish home products that could also stand up to the everyday messes of family life. Today, the brand is best known for its beautifully designed washable play mats that blend seamlessly into your home’s décor instead of looking like traditional baby gear. The collection has expanded to include rugs, runners, and other thoughtfully designed pieces that make family-friendly living feel effortlessly stylish. It’s proof that you really can have a home that’s both kid-friendly and beautifully designed.

thehouseofnoa.com

7. ezpz

Mealtime can be one of the most memorable parts of parenting, but it can also be one of the messiest. Mom and speech-language pathologist Lindsey Laurain created ezpz after experiencing the daily frustration of plates and bowls constantly ending up on the floor. Her solution was a line of silicone suction plates, bowls, cups, and feeding tools that help make self-feeding easier for little ones while minimizing the cleanup parents know all too well. The products are thoughtfully designed to support developmental milestones and encourage independence from the very beginning. Whether you’re starting solids or navigating toddler meals, ezpz has become a trusted favorite for families everywhere.

ezpzfun.com

8. Freshly Picked

What started with one pair of handcrafted baby moccasins has grown into one of the most recognizable brands in children’s fashion. Founder Susan Petersen launched Freshly Picked from her kitchen as a way to help support her family, and her dedication to quality quickly earned the attention of parents across the country. Today, the brand offers stylish footwear, diaper bags, and accessories that combine fashion with everyday function. Their bestselling diaper bags are especially popular with moms who want something practical without giving up great style. It’s a brand that continues to prove family essentials can be both beautiful and functional.

freshlypicked.com

9. Monica + Andy

Finding soft, high-quality clothing for babies shouldn’t have to be complicated. Monica Royer founded Monica + Andy after becoming a mom herself and struggling to find premium newborn essentials she felt completely confident bringing home to her own baby. The brand focuses on organic fabrics, timeless designs, and everyday essentials that are made to last through countless cuddles, naps, and milestones. From newborn layette sets to pajamas and blankets, every collection is thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. It’s an excellent choice for new parents, baby shower gifts, or anyone who appreciates beautifully made children’s clothing.

monicaandandy.com

10. GoWhee

Planning family vacations often means spending hours searching for activities that everyone will actually enjoy. Mom Maud Maciak created GoWhee to simplify that process by giving families one place to discover kid-friendly attractions, restaurants, parks, accommodations, and experiences around the world. The platform is built specifically for parents and is filled with recommendations from other families who have been there themselves. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an international adventure, it helps remove some of the guesswork from traveling with children. It’s an incredibly useful resource for parents who love making memories without the stress of endless research.

gowhee.com

Supporting Moms, One Purchase at a Time

Every purchase tells a story, and choosing to support mom-founded businesses is one meaningful way to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and determination of women who have transformed everyday parenting challenges into products and services that make family life better. Whether you’re looking for educational toys, healthier snacks, stylish home décor, baby essentials, or smarter ways to travel, these brands offer thoughtful solutions created by moms who truly understand the journey. We hope you’ve discovered a few new favorites to explore and support because when moms lift each other up, everyone benefits.

The post 10 Mom-Founded Brands Worth Adding to Your Radar appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.