The sweetest back-to-school tradition

The sweetest back-to-school tradition

We may earn a small commission when you shop through our links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

Back-to-school season doesn't have to be all backpacks, supply lists, and new sneakers. Sometimes the best way to mark a new school year is with something that feels a little more fun—and a lot less practical. Enter Build-A-Bear, where kids can create a stuffed friend that's uniquely theirs and ready to join them for whatever this new school year brings.

For younger children, a Build-A-Bear can become a comforting buddy during those first-day jitters. For older kids, choosing a bear's outfit to perfectly capture their grade and age can be a surprisingly fun way to express their personality. By senior year, having a lineup of bears to represent each year of their schooling is such a sweet memory.

explore build-a-bear

We also love Build-a-Bear for a fall-break staycation activity. If you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for something to do on a rainy afternoon, a trip to Build-A-Bear can turn into an experience rather than just another purchase. Let kids choose a seasonal outfit or accessory, then make the stuffed friend part of your fall traditions—think pumpkin patches, football games, movie nights, or cozy weekends at home.

For back-to-school or fall, Build-A-Bear offers something increasingly rare: a little old-fashioned fun, plenty of creativity, and a keepsake that can become part of a child's story.

Share this story

Pin

More in KidsView all picks →

Boost mobile plans for the family

Boost Mobile deal: Unlimited plan $10/month for first six months

Boost Mobile’s Unlimited plan includes unlimited talk, text and high-speed data. • $10/month promotional rate for first six months; then $25/month with AutoPay. • Families who want an affordable starter line for a tween or teen.

Bijou Build adaptable and portable playgrounds

Bijou Build: a modular outdoor playset that grows with your family

Start with the Mainstay and add accessories over time • Panels are woven from recycled water bottles and resist moisture and UV

Collage of holiday gifts for kids, including a Ms. Rachel Toniebox, a LEGO Wallace & Gromit set, a gingerbread house inflatable bed, a drawing robot, a scooter and a red wagon

The Cool Mom Picks 2026 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids

Our annual holiday gift guide for kids: screen-free favorites, LEGO, bikes, books, cozy PJs and the hot toys kids are asking for this year.