Hey there — and welcome to my little corner of the internet!
If this is your first time landing on my website, I’m so glad you’re here. I share a bit of everything: honest stories, helpful guides, and the occasional life rant (because, why not?). This blog post was written with the intention of shedding light on what students — and parents — truly go through during the back-to-school season.
While school in Romania (where I live!) starts in September, many places around the world — especially in the U.S. — kick off mid-August. And since I’m an Amazon Influencer with a storefront focused on U.S. and UK markets, I thought this would be the perfect moment to gather some helpful, heartfelt Amazon recommendations in one place.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links on this blog and my social media. This comes at no extra cost to you — and your support truly means the world to me. Thank you for being here and helping me keep doing what I love.
Back to School 2025 is here — and whether you’re a parent prepping for your child’s first day, or a student heading off to college, I’ve got you covered. In this post, I’m sharing 16 hand-picked Amazon must-haves that can ease the stress, bring excitement, and make this new chapter feel a little less chaotic (and a lot more organized).
School Isn’t Just About Supplies — It’s About Support
Hi everyone — and welcome to my little digital corner where I share a bit of everything. Today, I want to reflect on something we all have in common: school. Whether your memories were fun, awkward, painful, or inspiring... we’ve all been students once, haven’t we?
Some of us hated the uniforms. Some dreaded the bad grades. Others were bullied. But maybe you also had a favorite subject, a teacher who made you feel seen, or a school friend who stayed in your life forever.
We often romanticize education like every family has that “my daughter went to Harvard” story. But let’s be honest — not all of us were meant to become doctors, engineers, or scientists. And not all parents could (or can) afford the best tools, programs, or support to help their children grow into confident, capable adults.
And for those who just found my blog — hi, I’m Carmen. I was born and raised in Romania, and I still live here today. A country often labeled as “poor,” where things function very differently than in the US, UK, or other wealthier European countries. When it comes to education, jobs, and even just daily life — we simply don’t have the same opportunities.
Let Me Rewind for a Moment...
If you asked me how I felt about school as a child — I’d say this without hesitation: I hated it.
Why? Because being bullied isn’t fun. Especially when you're not tall enough, not pretty enough, not rich enough, not smart enough — or just not enough in other people’s eyes.
I was labeled as “poor.” It showed in my worn clothes, in the fact that I couldn’t afford school trips or private tutoring. I received social aid: food staples like oil and sugar, used clothes, and sometimes just silence where support should’ve been.
All I remember was my mom saying over and over again, “We don’t have money for this… or that…” It became like a broken record — one that played throughout my childhood and built up feelings of shame, insecurity, and sadness.
School Is More Than Books and Grades
School is a strange, unspoken battlefield where kids learn what they like, what they hate, and what they want to become. They discover talents, make (or lose) friends, and slowly begin to understand who they are.
But not every child gets the same treatment — from teachers or classmates.
Some are quieter. Some are slow to process. Some lack emotional support at home. And just because a student isn’t analytical, doesn’t memorize well, or isn’t outspoken doesn’t mean they’re weak, lazy, or incapable. Sometimes they’re just different — and that difference often gets overlooked.
Some kids don’t speak up, not because they don’t want to — but because they don’t know how. Or worse, they’ve already been made to feel like something is wrong with them.
I know this, because I lived it.
I was bullied from primary school all the way through high school. Then in relationships. I grew up with low self-esteem, constantly dismissed, laughed at, pointed at. I felt like I had no value, like my presence didn’t matter.
I was the girl who sat in the back, tried to look “normal,” and just kept moving forward. Quietly. Invisibly. I finished school with good grades, but deep down, I couldn’t wait to grow the f*** up. Being a child is hard — and when you’re left unsupported, it’s even harder.
Let’s Talk Support: Emotional Awareness for Parents & Students
Dear parents: your kids are going through more than just homework and tests.
They face overwhelming pressure — not just from school, but from society, media, and often themselves. The pressure to be perfect. Cool. Smart. Sexy. Polished. Popular. All while trying to find their identity in a system that tells them: “Be like this or you’ll fall behind.”
And if your child is neurodivergent, sensitive, creative, introverted, or just “different” — they might suffer in silence, because they don’t fit the mold.
As a parent, you might be busy. You might not notice subtle emotional changes. Maybe you think it’s normal, or you say, “I was bullied too, get over it.” But that mindset builds distance — not connection.
Ask yourself:
Has my child withdrawn emotionally or physically since school started?
Are they being treated fairly at school?
Am I present enough to notice?
Do they feel safe talking to me?
Sometimes they’re not looking for advice. They just want someone to listen — or to show up and speak to the teacher or principal when things aren’t right.
And please, if your mindset is still stuck in the old “grow some balls” mentality… respectfully, it’s time to evolve. That approach won’t bring your child closer to you — it’ll push them away.
I wish someone had protected me, taught me boundaries, or helped me process my emotions. I spent years wondering, “Why me?” Why did people pull my hair? Laugh at me? Push me? What did I do to deserve it?
Later I understood: some of those kids came from broken homes. Their bullying was a projection of their own pain. But that didn’t make my pain any easier to carry.
The Emotional Wounds of Childhood Stay With Us
What happens in childhood stays in the body.
Bullying, neglect, and emotional abandonment leave scars:
Self-sabotage. Shame. Anxiety. Low self-worth. Social isolation. Anger. Sadness. And so much more.
So yes — education matters. But emotional education matters even more.
If you want to raise someone who’s kind, empathetic, confident, successful, and grounded — you need to build a strong foundation. Not just with pencils and homework. But with love, support, conversations, and presence.
I think often: what if my childhood had been different?
Would I have grown stronger? Would I have succeeded faster?
After graduating university, I became a woman still struggling to feel accepted. I had social anxiety, shame, comparison issues, and very few real friends. I worked hard, smiled through pain, and tried everything to fit in… just to be liked.
But I was never truly appreciated — because deep down, I never learned that I mattered.
That I was enough.
That I deserved boundaries, respect, and love.
So if you're a parent reading this: teach your child those things. Now.
They’ll carry that confidence into adulthood, where life gets even tougher.
Let’s Flip the Page: Preparing for Back to School in 2025
Dear parents, I know it's hard. I know life is expensive and unpredictable.
But at the very least, every child deserves the basics: clean clothes, shoes, a backpack, supplies, and the tools to grow.
So to help make things a little easier, I’ve put together a list of Amazon school essentials — practical, affordable, and hand-picked with love. Because Back to School isn’t just about looking trendy. It’s about helping our kids feel ready, seen, and supported — in every way that matters.
Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle – 24oz Stainless Steel with Straw
Stay hydrated all day with the Owala FreeSip insulated water bottle. Its patented spout lets you sip or swig easily, while the push-button lid keeps it clean and locked. Double-wall insulation keeps drinks icy cold for 24 hours. BPA-free and dishwasher safe, it’s perfect for school, travel, or workouts. Plus, the carry loop makes it easy to grab on the go.
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack – Durable & Lightweight for School
Stay ready for school with the JanSport SuperBreak Backpack—lightweight yet super durable. Made from water-repellent 600 denier fabric, it protects your gear rain or shine. The perfect size with one main compartment and a front organizer keeps your essentials in check. Classic style with over 30 colors to express your vibe. Comfortable padded straps make it easy to carry all day long.
Five Star 5-Subject Spiral Notebook – Smart, Durable & App-Ready
Ace the school year with this Five Star spiral notebook—built to last with a water-resistant cover and 200 ink-bleed-resistant sheets. Stay organized with 5 subjects and tear-out college-ruled pages. Use the Five Star Study App to scan notes, make flashcards, and sync to Google Drive. Tough pockets hold loose sheets securely. Smart, sturdy, and recyclable!
Amazon Basics Colored Pencils – 24 Soft Core Shades in Tin Case
Bring your school projects to life with this 24-pack of Amazon Basics premium colored pencils. Designed with soft artist-quality cores for smooth layering, shading, and detail work. Pre-sharpened and ready to use right out of the box! Durable, break-resistant leads mean less sharpening. Comes in a sleek tin case to keep your colors organized and protected.
Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils – 24 Vibrant & Kid-Friendly Shades
Mistakes? No problem! These Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils let kids color freely and fix slips in a snap. With 24 vibrant, pre-sharpened shades, they’re perfect for detailed, smooth coloring at school or home. Great for ages 6+, they’re easy to erase and glide like a dream on paper. A trusted classroom favorite for students and teachers alike!
Bentgo Chill Kids Lunch Box – Leak-Proof Bento with Built-In Ice Pack
Keep lunch fresh and fun with the Bentgo Chill Kids Lunch Box! Designed for ages 3–7, it features 4 compartments and a built-in, removable ice pack to keep food cool for hours. Leak-proof and super easy to open, even for little hands. Made from BPA- and PFAS-free materials for safe, worry-free meals. Microwave- and dishwasher-safe tray for easy cleanup!
Amazon Basics 3-Hole Punch – Clean & Precise for School Binders
Stay organized with this sleek Amazon Basics 3-Hole Punch—built to punch through up to 10 sheets with ease. Designed for precise placement, each hole is cleanly cut and perfectly spaced for standard binders. The sturdy metal body ensures long-lasting use, while the chip tray keeps your workspace mess-free. Compact, reliable, and a school must-have!
Post-it Notes 24-Pack – Pastel Sticky Notes for Planning & Reminders
Brighten up your school setup with this 24-pack of Post-it Notes in soft, beachy colors. Each pad has 100 sheets—perfect for reminders, labels, bookmarks, or planning. These sticky notes hold strong and peel off clean with no surface damage. Repositionable and recyclable, they’re a colorful way to stay on top of school tasks. Compact, cute, and super handy!
Mesh Shower Caddy – 8-Pocket Tote for Dorms, Gym, Beach & Travel
Make dorm life easier with this portable mesh shower caddy—perfect for keeping all your bathroom essentials organized. It features 8 side pockets and a spacious main compartment for shampoo, towels, and more. The Oxford fabric base adds extra durability, while the quick-dry mesh keeps things clean and sand-free. Lightweight, breathable, and ideal for college, gym, or travel!
HANYCONY Power Strip – 8 Outlets + 4 USB Ports with Surge Protection
Power all your devices at once with this 12-in-1 surge protector! Featuring 8 widely spaced AC outlets, 2 USB-C, and 2 USB-A ports, it's perfect for school, dorms, or home offices. The flat plug and 5ft braided cord fit tight spaces with ease. Built-in surge and overload protection keep your tech safe. Wall-mountable and ETL certified for extra peace of mind!
Twin XL 3-Piece Sheet Set – Soft, Cooling & Deep Pocket Bedding
Upgrade your sleep with this ultra-soft Twin XL sheet set—includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and pillowcase. Made from breathable, brushed microfiber, it’s cooler than cotton and wrinkle-free for everyday ease. Deep pockets fit mattresses up to 16", perfect for dorms or home. OEKO-TEX certified for safety and softness that feels like hotel luxury on a budget!
White Crown LED Desk Lamp – Dimmable Light with USB & Timer
Light up your study space with this sleek LED desk lamp featuring 5 brightness levels and 5 lighting modes. Perfect for reading, studying, or winding down. The smart touch controls and memory function make it super user-friendly. Includes a USB charging port and 30/60-minute timer for added convenience. Long-lasting, eye-friendly, and energy efficient!
Upstreman Mini Fridge with Freezer – Compact, Quiet & Dorm-Friendly
Perfect for dorms, bedrooms, or offices, this Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft mini fridge packs serious storage in a small footprint. Features a roomy single-door design with a freezer compartment, adjustable thermostat, and removable shelves. Runs quietly at just 38 dB and uses minimal energy. Bonus: it includes a crisper drawer, ice tray, and defrost tool for added convenience!
Chefman Electric Kettle – Fast-Boil Glass Kettle with Auto Shutoff
Boil water in just 3 minutes with this sleek Chefman 1.8L electric kettle—perfect for tea, coffee, or instant meals. Made from borosilicate glass with stainless steel accents, it features blue LED lights, auto shutoff, and boil-dry protection. The removable lid and stainless-steel filter make cleaning easy, while the cordless design and cool-touch handle ensure safe, stylish pouring.
BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones – 65H Playtime & 6 EQ Modes
Jam out all day with BERIBES wireless over-ear headphones—featuring 65 hours of playtime and 6 customizable EQ sound modes for every music taste. Super lightweight at just 0.38 lb, with soft memory foam ear cushions for all-day comfort. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures fast pairing and stable connection. Comes with mic, foldable design, and wired option for backup!
Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Waterproof with Lights & 15H Playtime
Turn up the vibes with this compact Bluetooth speaker—featuring 15W crystal-clear sound, punchy bass, and a beat-sync LED light show. Lightweight and portable, it's perfect for dorms, outdoor hangouts, or study breaks. With Bluetooth 5.3, AUX and TF card support, and 15 hours of playtime, it's built for fun anywhere. Plus, pair two for 360° stereo sound!
Thanks for Stopping By — Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this blog post. I truly hope you found it valuable — and that my 16 Amazon back-to-school picks helped spark some inspiration or clarity as you prep for the upcoming school season.
Whether you're shopping for a little one heading into elementary school, or a teen getting ready for college life, I believe small choices (like a good backpack or a quality desk lamp!) can make a big difference in creating a smoother, more motivated daily routine.
Below, you’ll find quick access to both of my Amazon storefronts, along with my curated Back to School 2025 ideal list — where you can explore all the items mentioned here in one place:
And hey — if you enjoyed this post or feel like we’d vibe well, I’d love for you to connect with me on social media. I share a mix of personal stories, helpful Amazon finds, small biz behind-the-scenes, and bits of everyday life.
Wishing you and your family a calm, exciting, and empowering start to the school year. May your little (and not-so-little) ones grow into strong, curious, and kind humans — even through the chaos that school sometimes brings.
Best regards and lots of love,
xoxo, Carmen