School Tools

ZACT Phone & Service 

This cell service is totally transparent: Users never pay for what they don’t use in calling, texting and data and can modify plans from their phones at any time. What makes it truly fantastic, though, are the parental controls, so that Plants vs. Zombies won’t work during school hours. For pricing, to go zact.com.

The North Face 

Charged Backpack

This backpack hides a battery that can store enough power to keep a student’s phone, MP3 player or other USB device charged all day. $229, thenorthface.com

Kotobuki Bento Box 

Lunch can be nutritious and adorable, as this distinct container proves. Everything is dishwasher and microwave safe, so cleanup is easy at the end of the day. $24, fab.com

Aftershokz

If your kids are riding to school on a bike or scooter, these headphones could be a lifesaver. They sit outside the ear, delivering great sound without making it hard to hear traffic or voices. $69, aftershokz.com

Buoy  

A great homework stool, perfect for a fidgety student. It wobbles, tilts and adjusts for height, so kids who squirm in regular chairs will feel right at home. $199, myturnstone.com

Amazon FreeTime

If you’ve got a Kindle, this subscription enables you to turn it over to the kids without worrying about access to inappropriate material. Amazon FreeTime unlocks thousands of hand-picked titles (books, TV, apps, games) for kids ages 3 to 8. No ads, no in-app purchases, no worries. Prices start at $2.99/month at amazon.com.