Back-to-school season is one of my favorite times of year. There’s something about fresh notebooks, brand-new sneakers, and getting back into a routine that feels like a fresh start.

This year my little guy is heading into second grade, and I wanted to share everything I’ve ordered for him so far! I always try to find pieces that are comfortable enough for recess, durable enough for everyday adventures, and cute enough for those first-day-of-school photos.

If you’re shopping for a little boy this year, hopefully this gives you a few ideas!

MY BACK-TO-SCHOOL PICKS

BACKPACK + SCHOOL ESSENTIALS

The backpack is always the first thing we pick because it’s what he’ll use every single day. I like choosing something lightweight, with plenty of pockets, and that can survive being tossed around at school.

Here’s what’s in our cart:

I’m also stocking up on extra pencils, crayons, glue sticks, dry erase markers, and tissues since teachers always appreciate classroom donations.

EVERYDAY TOPS

When it comes to clothes, comfort wins every time.

My son lives in graphic tees, athletic shirts, and soft cotton basics that he can mix and match with everything else in his closet.

I usually buy a combination of:

  • Graphic tees featuring his favorite hobbies
  • Solid basics in neutral colors
  • Athletic moisture-wicking shirts
  • One or two nicer polos for school picture day or class events
  • Lightweight hoodie for chilly mornings

I stick with colors that all coordinate together so getting dressed each morning is easy.

BOTTOMS

School clothes need to survive recess, climbing, running, and plenty of playground adventures.

This year I ordered:

  • Athletic shorts
  • Stretch joggers
  • Comfortable chino shorts
  • Everyday jeans with adjustable waist
  • Athletic pants for cooler weather

Stretch fabrics are always worth it because they move with active kids instead of restricting them.

SHOES

Shoes might be my favorite purchase every school year.

A good pair of sneakers makes such a difference when they’re running around all day.

This year we’re keeping it simple with:

I usually choose neutral colors so they match everything.

LAYERS

Even though it’s still warm outside, I know Utah mornings will cool off before we know it.

I’m grabbing:

  • Zip-up hoodie
  • Lightweight jacket
  • Cozy sweatshirt
  • Rain jacket that can stay in the backpack

Layers make getting ready much easier when temperatures change throughout the day.

LUNCHBOX FAVORITES

Packing lunch is so much easier when everything has a place.

Some of our favorite lunchbox staples include:

  • Silicone muffin cups
  • Reusable ice packs
  • Bento-style lunch containers
  • Reusable utensils
  • Easy-open snack bags

These little swaps help keep lunches organized and make cleanup much easier.

WHAT I’M SKIPPING THIS YEAR

One thing I’ve learned after a few years of elementary school is that kids don’t need an entirely new wardrobe every August.

Instead of replacing everything, I focus on filling the gaps:

  • New shoes
  • A few shirts
  • Fresh basics
  • School supplies
  • Anything he’s outgrown

It saves money and keeps shopping much less overwhelming.

MY FAVORITE BACK-TO-SCHOOL TIP

I always wash everything before school starts, remove tags, label jackets and backpacks, and have his first-week outfits planned ahead of time.

It makes those busy school mornings feel so much calmer – and we can spend more time soaking up the excitement instead of searching for missing socks.

Here’s to another amazing school year filled with learning, new friendships, and lots of playground adventures!

Happy Back to School!

Shop all of my favorite back-to-school finds for boys below, and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram!