Back to School With Pottery Barn Kids

 

This summer was what I dreamed of this winter. I am not a fan of the snow or cold and couldn’t wait to see my kids play in the summer sun. This summer we enjoyed lazy days at the pool, traveled to Disney World, visited the beach, and even had a home pool party with some friends and family (more pictures here). It is so sad to think that it is time to transition the kids to a Back to School Routine.

One thing that is consistent about back to school is the dreadful school supplies list. The supplies are harder to find no matter how early you decide to shop.  After you buy all the items on their list don’t forget about the Backpack. Every year we are excited to see what new designs Pottery Barn Kids have and what backpack the kids are wearing on the first day of school.

During the summer we used our backpack to pack essentials for our day trips to prepare Jax and Rosie for preschool. Jax is obsessed with Star Wars so I am happy that Pottery Barn Kids has a variety of Disney backpacks to meet your boy and girl expectations.

                                                                 IMAGE: POTTERY BARN KIDS

Speaking of Disney, check out this adorable princess design. Ella and I don’t have a favorite princess so this design is perfect for us. Yes, us. Sometimes I use her backpack to run errands. It is convenient and fits a lot of stuff. Eventually, I decided to get my own because of I love how much you can fit inside and I prefer a backpack because I am always 0n the go.

When selecting your backpack it is important to consider your child size and height and whether or not your child is going to wear it. Pottery Barn Kids does an excellent job explaining the size that works best for your child and what each backpack can fit comfortably.  My oldest is going to the first grade this year and I think the large is the perfect size for her because it fits a lunch box with room for a lot more books and school necessities. I made of list of the items of everyday items that are in my 1st grader large backpack. Keep in mind it is still plenty of space for more things.

1. Lunch Box
2. Blanket
3. Extra Clothes
4. Books

Another important thing to consider when selecting the backpack for your child is simply whether or not they will actually wear it or will it act like a traveling diaper bag. Rosie is wearing the pre-k and it fits her perfectly. She loves to carry it and I listed a few items that I pack on a daily bases. Keep in mind, you don’t want to stuff the bag or make it to heavy. Keep it light so your little one can carry it comfortably.

1. travel wipes
2. 2 cloth diapers or 4 disposable diapers
3. iPad
4. change of clothes
5. Two wooden toys
6. Small blanket
7. Lunchable
8. Water Bottle

 

I have three popular sizes and it appears that the Pottery Barn Kids interactive gear guide is accurate. Rosie is wearing the pre-k, Jax is wearing the small, and Ella is wearing the large. I am always asked if it is ok to size up for a two-year-old. I don’t think so. As you can see Rosie’s backpack fits her perfectly. Look at how it stops above her back compared to her brothers. I listed some FAQ to help you decide what backpack is right for you.

Will the small backpack fit a lunchbox?

Yes, it can but my son actually loves to carry his lunchbox himself. It is only a short ride to school and a short walk into class before it gets handed to his teacher so he is not carrying it for a long time. Potterybarn Kids offers matching lunchboxes so I would suggest carrying it to show it off if you can.

IMAGE: POTTERY BARN KIDS

 

I am afraid that the pre-school size is too small and I want to size up for my 2-year-old.

Before sizing up it is a few things to consider. How soon will your child be 3? Are you comfortable carrying it until your child can wear it? Based on my experience, Rosie loves to wear the backpack and it fits perfectly. She just turned two and already has two different pre-school size backpacks. The straps adjust so when Rosie gets taller the backpack can grow with her.

How long will my child be able to fit in the pre-school backpack?

Rosie just turned two and has had a preschool backpack since her 1st birthday. I think once your child has mastered walking it is safe for them to carry it. Based on Rose size and height, I believe she will be able to fit the preschool backpack a little after her 3rd birthday.

 

My child just turned 3, should I get him the kindergarten size?

Sizing up is always a difficult question for me to answer. Your child may not be able to carry it for quite some time and if you are comfortable with that, go for it. Jax is 3 and the large fits him perfectly. Based on his size Jax would be able to fit a large for another year in a half. That would make him 4 1/2  before I purchased him the next size up.

IMAGE: POTTERY BARN KIDS

 

One thing that I love about Potterybarn Kids is the personalization option for most of their products. This comes in handy for Back-to-School. Everything at my children’s school needs to have their name on it. So why not make their backpack extra special.

 

 

Pottery Barn backpacks are expensive. Is it worth the investment?

YES! I purchased my first Potterybarn Kids backpack for my daughter when she was in pre-school 3. She was able to use the same lunchbox and backpack for pre-school 3, pre-school 4, and kindergarten. The backpack and lunchbox also washed well in my home washing machine.

 

 

 

 

Ella is so excited to start 1st grade and loves her princess backpack. Jax is off to pre-school and I will admit I am a little nervous. Purchasing his Potterybarn Kids backpack has made him independent and ready to start our day. I have no doubt that he will do great. Select styles are already on back order so shop now. I know you mommas want that perfect “first day of school” picture. I hope that I was able to help you select the right size backpack and if not comment and let me know how I can help. Be sure to let me know what design you pick.

Real Life, Always.

XO