9 Local Items Your Kids Will Love for Back to School

Class is back in session — and back in person — and we couldn’t be happier to send our students out the door with new goods and gear.

Linus Lil’ Dutchi 20″; $349

lil dutchi bike

Mad Dogs & Englishmen, Mill Valley

This single-speed classically cool 20-inch kids bike boasts a streamlined profile, thinner and lighter tubing, and a kickstand.

Modern Metallics Metallic Colored Pencils; $10

metallic colored pencils

5 Little Monkeys, Corte Madera and Novato

Add artistic flair to school projects with this set of 12 soft metallic colored pencils that can be used alone or blended together.

French Terry Blazer; $129

Stereotype blazer

StereoType, San Francisco

Made from 100%-recycled yarn, this stylish blended-fashion (for guys and girls) blazer from new SF-based company StereoType is embellished with gold Lurex ribbon and two playful patches.

Learn more about blended fashion by reading our our Q & A with Bay Area entrepreneur and StereoType founder Elizabeth Brunner.

Handlebar Bike Bag; $42

Ice Poppy

Ice Poppy, Mill Valley

Stash stuff like snacks, bike locks, your phone and keys on the ride to school with this handmade, waterproof bike bag that attaches to any handlebar with Velcro straps.

Klean Kanteen Kid’s Sport Bottle; $18

klean kanteen

Good Earth Natural Foods, Fairfax and Mill Valley

Kids are tough on water bottles, which is why we like this durable, 12-ounce stainless steel option that features a powder-coated finish and spill-proof sports cap.

Lunchskins Zippered Bag Set; $11

lunchskins zipper bags

The Container Store, Corte Madera

Lighten the landfill load with this reusable zippered sandwich and snack bag set made from quick-drying, durable, lightweight, food-safe fabric. Best yet, they’re dishwasher safe.

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack; $90

back to school backpack

Poppy Store, Larkspur

This roomy backpack features a large opening for easier packing and side and front pockets, and is made of lightweight Vinylon F fabric that resists dirt and water.

Fitbit Ace 3; $80

kids fitbit

Best Buy, San Rafael

Keep the kids on the move with this swim-proof activity tracker that also tracks sleep and features a battery that lasts eight days before needing a charge.

Icon Book Light; $20

back to school, reading light

Urban Outfitters, Corte Madera

Light up late-night study sessions with this cute, clip-on book light that is battery-powered and features an adjustable gooseneck.

A few more items we love:


More from Marin:


Lotus AbramsLotus Abrams has covered everything from beauty to business to tech in her editorial career, but it might be writing about her native Bay Area that inspires her most. She lives with her husband and two daughters in the San Francisco Peninsula, where they enjoy spending time outdoors at the area’s many open spaces protected and preserved by her favorite local nonprofit, the Peninsula Open Space Trust.