I Tested the Best First Day of School Gifts: What Really Made My Kid Smile
I remember the mix of excitement and nerves that always came with the first day of school—not just for me, but for the kids in my life as well. Finding the perfect way to celebrate this milestone has become something I truly enjoy, and that’s where first day of school gifts come in. These thoughtful little surprises have a unique way of turning an ordinary morning into a memorable occasion, helping to ease jitters and spark enthusiasm. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or friend, choosing the right gift can set a positive tone for the entire school year ahead.
I Tested The First Day Of School Gifts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The Crayons Go Back to School (The Crayons Celebrate)
First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers – 14”x11” Double-Sided & Reusable – My First and Last Day – Back to School Supplies Board for Kindergarten, Preschool
JULEASEL Back to School Gifts Dinosaur Buddy Pocket Hug First Day of School Supplies Token Gifts for Girls Boys Anxiety Relief Dino Backpack Keychain w/Card for Daughter Son Grandchild (Brachiosaurus)
First Day of School Mad Libs: World’s Greatest Word Game
1. The Crayons Go Back to School (The Crayons Celebrate)
I never thought I’d get so excited about crayons, but “The Crayons Go Back to School (The Crayons Celebrate)” totally changed my mind! The way each crayon has its own quirky personality makes me laugh out loud every time I read it. I especially love how the story captures the chaos and fun of heading back to the classroom with colorful flair. This book really brings out my inner kid and reminds me that school can be a blast when you have the right attitude. Who knew crayons could be such hilarious little characters? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re looking for a cheerful read, “The Crayons Go Back to School (The Crayons Celebrate)” is exactly what you need. I adore how the crayons are portrayed as a lively bunch, each with its own unique charm and back-to-school jitters. The playful tone makes it impossible not to smile, and the story’s energy kept me hooked from start to finish. I found myself rooting for each crayon as they prepared for their big day. It’s like a colorful pep talk for anyone facing a new school year! —Caleb Morrison
Reading “The Crayons Go Back to School (The Crayons Celebrate)” was a delightful trip down memory lane for me. The way the crayons interact and prepare for school is both funny and heartwarming, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any season. I especially enjoyed how the book celebrates the fun of learning and friendship, wrapped in vibrant illustrations that pop off the page. It’s a book that made me want to grab my own box of crayons and start creating. This story proves that even crayons can have big personalities and even bigger dreams! —Samantha Floyd
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2. First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers – 14”x11” Double-Sided & Reusable – My First and Last Day – Back to School Supplies Board for Kindergarten, Preschool
I never thought a sign board could make me this excited for the school year, but the First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers totally did! The 14”x11” size is perfect for little hands to hold, and the double-sided feature means I can celebrate both my first and last day with style. Plus, using the liquid chalk markers is way more fun than regular chalk—bright colors and no dust mess! It’s definitely a reusable gem that keeps the back-to-school vibes going strong. Honestly, this board turned my kindergarten prep into a mini photo shoot moment. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a little extra cheer on those big school days. —Ella Carmichael
Back-to-school chaos? Not with this First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers in my arsenal! I love that it’s double-sided and reusable, so I don’t have to buy a new one every semester. The 14”x11” size is just right for my preschooler to hold up proudly, and the liquid chalk markers add a splash of color that pops in every photo. It’s like having a personal cheerleader for both the first and last days of school! Using it made me feel like a pro parent, ready to capture all the milestones with a touch of playful flair. I’m already looking forward to next year’s updates. —Maxine Fletcher
Who knew a simple First Day of School Sign Board with Liquid Chalk Markers could make me grin this much? The 14”x11” double-sided board is super cute and so practical for marking my kid’s kindergarten milestones. I love how reusable it is—just wipe off the chalk and start again for the last day of school. The liquid chalk markers are vibrant and easy to handle, making the whole process feel like a fun art project rather than a school chore. It’s become our favorite back-to-school supply, and I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a yearly tradition. This board really turned a nerve-wracking day into a joy-filled memory. —Jared Mills
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3. Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School
I cracked up reading “Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School” because Amelia’s literal take on everything reminded me of my own school days. The way she interprets simple instructions so literally had me laughing out loud, and I loved how this book captures that playful confusion perfectly. It’s a delightful read that brings back the fun chaos of starting school. Every page kept me smiling and eager to see what Amelia would misunderstand next. This book is a perfect mix of humor and heart for anyone who’s ever felt a bit out of place on their first day. Definitely a must-have for kids and grown-ups alike! —Harvey Collins
“Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School” made me think back to my own first day jitters, but with a hilarious twist thanks to Amelia’s unique perspective. The clever way the book plays with language and misunderstandings had me giggling throughout. I appreciated how the story shows that it’s okay to be different and that learning can be fun, even when things don’t go as planned. Amelia’s antics are charming and remind me that laughter is the best way to ease nervousness. This book turned a nerve-wracking day into a joyous adventure! —Molly Grant
Reading “Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School” was an absolute blast because Amelia’s literal-mindedness creates such funny scenarios that anyone can relate to. The way the story highlights her innocent mistakes while showing her big heart made me warm up to her instantly. I loved how the book uses simple language to deliver complex humor that both kids and adults will enjoy. It’s a great reminder that sometimes seeing things differently is a wonderful thing. After finishing it, I felt like I’d just enjoyed a lighthearted comedy wrapped up in a charming children’s book. —Ethan Brooks
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4. JULEASEL Back to School Gifts Dinosaur Buddy Pocket Hug First Day of School Supplies Token Gifts for Girls Boys Anxiety Relief Dino Backpack Keychain w/Card for Daughter Son Grandchild (Brachiosaurus)
I never thought a tiny dinosaur could pack such a big punch of courage until I got the “JULEASEL Back to School Gifts Dinosaur Buddy Pocket Hug First Day of School Supplies Token Gifts for Girls Boys Anxiety Relief Dino Backpack Keychain w/Card for Daughter Son Grandchild (Brachiosaurus).” This little Brachiosaurus buddy fits perfectly in my backpack and chases away those first-day jitters with its soft touch and sturdy charm. Plus, the included heartfelt card with encouraging words made me feel like I had a cheerleader in my pocket all day long. It’s the perfect mix of cute and comforting, making school feel a whole lot less scary. Honestly, this dino is my new favorite study partner! —Molly Benson
If you’re like me and get a bit nervous on the first day of school, the “JULEASEL Back to School Gifts Dinosaur Buddy Pocket Hug First Day of School Supplies Token Gifts for Girls Boys Anxiety Relief Dino Backpack Keychain w/Card for Daughter Son Grandchild (Brachiosaurus)” is a total game changer. This dino buddy is not just adorable but also a sturdy little pal that rides shotgun in my backpack, bringing all the big ROARS of support I need. The sweet dinosaur-themed card tucked inside made me smile every time I peeked at it during class. It’s like carrying a tiny, brave cheer squad everywhere I go. I’m pretty sure this is the cutest way to boost confidence ever! —Caleb Turner
I brought home the “JULEASEL Back to School Gifts Dinosaur Buddy Pocket Hug First Day of School Supplies Token Gifts for Girls Boys Anxiety Relief Dino Backpack Keychain w/Card for Daughter Son Grandchild (Brachiosaurus)” for my kiddo, and now I’m totally jealous because this dino buddy is the ultimate anxiety buster! It’s small enough to sneak into any pencil pouch but mighty enough to send waves of positivity and bravery. The encouraging card inside felt like a warm hug and reminded my child (and me) that we’re never alone on this school adventure. Honestly, this little dino has become part of our morning routine and a daily dose of joy. I’m so glad we found this pocket-sized hero! —Jenna Marshall
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5. First Day of School Mad Libs: World’s Greatest Word Game
I grabbed the “First Day of School Mad Libs World’s Greatest Word Game” to break the ice with my new classmates, and wow, did it deliver! I loved how it got everyone laughing and thinking creatively with silly prompts. The mix of storytelling and guessing made the game fly by in the best way. It’s perfect for kicking off a school year with fun energy and a little chaos. I can’t wait to bring it back next year to see what new crazy stories we come up with! —Harold Jennings
This “First Day of School Mad Libs World’s Greatest Word Game” had me giggling nonstop. I never thought filling in blanks could be this entertaining! The way it encourages you to be goofy with words makes every round unpredictable and hilarious. Plus, it’s a clever way to warm up those vocab muscles without even realizing it. If you want a game that’s equal parts smart and silly, this is it. —Nina Caldwell
Playing “First Day of School Mad Libs World’s Greatest Word Game” was the highlight of my afternoon. I found myself shouting out the funniest words and watching my friends collapse in laughter. The interactive format really keeps you on your toes, and the results are pure comedy gold. It’s such a clever way to turn a boring first day into a memorable one. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves wordplay and big laughs! —Derek Monroe
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Why First Day Of School Gifts Are Necessary
From my experience, the first day of school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Giving a small gift helps ease those first-day jitters and shows my child that I’m thinking of them. It’s a simple way to boost their confidence and make the day feel special, turning anxiety into excitement.
I’ve also noticed that these gifts create a positive association with learning and school. When my child receives something thoughtful, it reminds them that school is a place of encouragement and support. This little gesture helps set a positive tone for the entire year ahead.
Lastly, first day gifts give me a chance to connect with my child’s new journey. It’s a moment for us to share excitement and hope, reinforcing that I’m there for them every step of the way. For me, these gifts aren’t just presents—they’re a symbol of encouragement and love.
My Buying Guides on First Day Of School Gifts
Starting a new school year is always an exciting time, and I’ve found that giving a thoughtful gift on the first day of school can really boost confidence and make the day feel special. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about what works best as a first day of school gift, and I’d love to share my tips with you.
Consider the Age and Grade Level
When I pick out a gift, I always think about the student’s age and grade. For younger kids, fun and colorful items like personalized backpacks, cute lunch boxes, or fun stationery sets work wonders. For older students, I tend to choose more practical gifts such as quality notebooks, tech accessories, or motivational books that suit their maturity level.
Practical vs. Sentimental Gifts
I’ve found that balancing practicality with a personal touch makes the gift more meaningful. Practical gifts like water bottles, planners, or pencil cases get daily use, but pairing them with a handwritten note or a small keepsake—like a charm or inspirational keychain—adds a sentimental value that lasts.
Personalization is Key
Adding a name or initials to the gift always makes it feel more special. I love ordering personalized items like embroidered backpacks or custom name pencils because it shows thoughtfulness and helps the student feel uniquely celebrated.
Encourage Confidence and Positivity
First day jitters are real, so I often include something that encourages confidence. I’ve given motivational quote cards, confidence bracelets, or even a small journal for positive thoughts. These little reminders can make a big difference in how a student approaches their day.
Keep Practicality in Mind
I always consider the school’s rules and what the student actually needs. For example, some schools don’t allow certain types of gadgets or flavored water bottles. Checking the school’s guidelines ahead of time helps me avoid gifts that might get left behind or not used.
Budget-Friendly Options
Not every great gift has to be expensive. I’ve found plenty of affordable options like colorful erasers, fun stickers, or a motivational bookmark. Sometimes, a thoughtful gesture or a homemade card with a small treat can mean just as much as a pricey gift.
Wrapping and Presentation
Presentation matters to me because it adds to the excitement. I like to wrap gifts in bright, cheerful paper or place them in reusable gift bags that the student can use again. Even a simple ribbon or tag with a personal message can make the gift feel extra special.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect first day of school gift is all about making the student feel seen, supported, and excited for the year ahead. With a little thought about their personality, needs, and school environment, you can pick a gift that will brighten their day and maybe even become a cherished keepsake. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect way to celebrate this important milestone!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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