Back-to-school survival for parents is real. Backpacks are packed. Buses are running. And parents everywhere are running on fumes. Whether your kids started two weeks ago or you’re still adjusting to the new routine, this is the part where we’ve gone from “excited” to “please don’t forget your lunch again.”
The back-to-school season may be about the kids on paper, but in real life? Parents need help too.
These 11 companies are helping us get through it—one chaotic morning, forgotten permission slip, and bedtime meltdown at a time. Call it survival. Call it self-care. Either way, these are the things making it just a little easier to show up each day.
How parents are surviving the school year (so far)
Mockingbird
Because you’re doing school drop-off with a baby in one hand and a coffee in the other
Back-to-school doesn’t always mean everyone’s in school. If you’ve got a baby or toddler tagging along for the school run, you need gear that can keep up. Mockingbird’s modular stroller system is built for real life, with a smooth glide, easy folding, and plenty of basket space for snacks, backpacks, or whatever else the day throws at you. It’s a multitasking MVP that makes mornings a little less chaotic.
Mabel’s Labels
Because labeling everything buys you a little more sanity
There’s nothing quite like realizing your kid’s water bottle, lunchbox, and hoodie have all vanished by week two. Mabel’s Labels helps you hang onto your gear—and your patience—with personalized, dishwasher-safe, laundry-proof labels that actually last. Their best-selling school packs cover everything from pencil cases to sports gear, so you’re not replacing the same water bottle five times this year.
Art of Tea
Because your 7:30 a.m. self deserves a moment of peace
The mornings are chaos. The carpool line never ends. And someone always forgot something. Art of Tea’s award-winning loose-leaf and bagged blends turn your bleary-eyed mug into a tiny ritual. Whether you’re into matcha, calming chamomile, or something bold to get you out the door, these small moments are one of the few peaceful parts of the day.
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Harbor
Because even superheroes need backup
Managing school forms, extracurriculars, and emotional meltdowns can feel like a full-time job. Harbor’s app brings expert-backed parenting support into your back pocket. It helps with the heavy stuff—like anxiety, tantrums, or just figuring out how to talk about big feelings after a hard day. A parenting tool that makes you feel more confident, not more overwhelmed.
Yogasleep
Because everyone in the house needs more sleep. Especially you.
Back-to-school often means back-to-early-bedtimes, and not always successfully. Yogasleep’s lineup of white noise machines, travel sound soothers, and calming sleep aids can help everyone—from your overtired toddler to your overstimulated teen—get more rest. Their classic Dohm model has been around for decades, but new portable and kid-friendly options make bedtime smoother wherever the night takes you.
PrepScholar
Because your teen’s math test should not become your part-time job
If your high schooler is prepping for the SAT, ACT, or a “very important” algebra quiz that suddenly counts for everything, PrepScholar can take some pressure off. Their affordable, self-paced online programs are designed for real students and busy schedules. Parents get a step back from the tutoring grind. Students get actual results without burnout.
Cratejoy
Because something in the mailbox should be fun
Between school emails, calendar invites, and forgotten permission slips, parents deserve a reason to open the mailbox that doesn’t cause stress. Cratejoy’s subscription boxes bring surprise and delight—STEM kits, journaling supplies, baking, sensory play, or even just a treat for yourself. Perfect for mid-week pick-me-ups that don’t involve screen time.
Goodpop
Because sometimes you just need a sweet win at 3:15
Popsicles aren’t a bribe. They’re a parenting tool. Goodpop’s frozen treats are made with organic, clean ingredients and come in flavors that both kids and grownups will actually love. Keep a box in the freezer for after-school meltdowns, surprise celebrations, or your own treat while waiting in the pickup line. It’s self-care on a stick.
Dollar Tree
Because the school supply list was not kidding
When your second grader’s teacher needs tissues, hand sanitizer, markers, and “extra snacks if you can swing it,” Dollar Tree saves the day. From seasonal classroom decor to last-minute poster boards, you can load up without blowing the budget. It’s also a stealth hero for DIY costume pieces, lunchbox add-ons, and everything your kid tells you about 12 hours too late.
Owlet
Because your baby didn’t get the school-year memo
You might be deep into homework season—but your baby is still waking up at 3 a.m. Owlet’s Dream Sock and smart monitors offer real-time sleep tracking and gentle insights to help everyone get a little more rest. Because functioning on two schedules is basically the parenting Olympics.
Boost Mobile
Because your tween “needs” a phone and you need to not lose your mind
Middle school brings new independence—and new tech battles. Boost Mobile makes it easier with prepaid, no-contract plans that let kids have a phone without giving them the keys to the castle. It’s perfect for first phones, shared devices, or just having a reliable line when “Mom, I missed the bus” texts start rolling in. Freedom for them, boundaries for you.
The wrap-up: surviving the school year (so far)
The calendars are packed. The expectations are high. And the coffee is never quite strong enough. But parents deserve support too—especially right now. Whether it’s five minutes of peace, a little more sleep, or a shortcut that saves your morning, these companies are helping us hold it together one school day at a time.
Surviving the school year isn’t about perfection. It’s about small wins—and finding help where we can.
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