Back-to-School Trends ***As Seen On San Diego 6 (CW)***

Maybe Mama’s call to action yesterday wasn’t loud enough…or clear enough…there are kids without families that need backpacks and school supplies. Next time you’re at Target and combing through the dollar section…think of them. Mama only received one e-mail yesterday asking where they could donate items. Really, only one?!


For every backpack, flash drive or other school supply item on Promises2Kids’ wish list, Mama will match your donation. Seriously, this is not a joke…just an important PSA. We often donate toys at the holidays, so why not school supplies in August?!


For those that are just tuning into Mama for the first time, WELCOME! Mama is usually not this loud but this happens to be a cause Mama is passionate about — helping neglected and abused children have a sense of normalcy in their lives — what more could you ask for?!


Now let’s get to talkin’ the hottest backpack and lunchbox trends…!


Eco — yes, it’s still in and Mama is sure it’s a trend that will continue for years to come. Mama loves the EcoGear Ocean Backpack, $27, and Messenger Bag, $27, for teens. Both are made with recycled materials and are ergonomically correct for their backs. Pair your eco-pack with an eco-friendly lunchbox from ecoLunchbox, $22. Compartment and bento box lunches are BIG right now!


Technology — imagine a backpack where safety features are built right in? Safety first is what we teach the kids so why not let them carry a backpack with an alarm…now you can! A new line of backpacks by iSafe have an alarm built-in louder than a car alarm just by pulling a cord. Mama thinks this is the perfect backpack for latchkey kids that walk home alone. Available at Amazon.com, $60. It doesn’t look any different than a regular backpack! For those that are toting a heavy load — check out IVAR backpacks with a patented built-in shelving space to elevate back stress, $52.


Animals — who doesn’t love animals? Mama is big on monkeys, frogs and pigs…thank goodness there is one of each of those available in the Skip Hop Zoo Backpacks that are perfect for tots (Pre-K). Available at Amazon.com, $20. Pair your animal pack with an adorable lunchbox from Yubo, $29.95, that can be personalized with anything from ABCs to spaceships.


Classics — sometimes you just can’t go wrong with a good classic backpack that fits your child’s personality to a “T”. Mama likes the Featherlight collection from Lands End, $34.50. The collection has tons of colors to choose from for both boys and girls that will last through any of the trends that come and go.


School supplies — the hottest school supplies and backpacks are actually flying off the shelves at OfficeMax. Mama thinks the backpacks are super cute and budget friendly, $9.99 to $24.99, in prints for both boys and girls. In addition to Mead folders and binders in hot hues…so your kids won’t lose them! Check out their styles at OfficeMax.com or in stores.

Reusable baggies — use them! They are cute and so resourceful…Mama loves Lunchskins, $14.95 for two, at DailyGrommet.com.


Stay tuned for more trends on back-to-school week…and don’t forget to donate!