5 Things We Miss About Going Back to School

Anyone who’s ever worn a poly-blend cap and gown knows that graduation is more than just a chance to grab a diploma and accept wanderlusty gifts from friends and family. It’s a moment to soak in the pride of years of academic accomplishments and to look ahead to what’s next. And if you’re finding yourself at the end of your school career, it’s also an opportunity to say to yourself, “Hey. I’m free. No. More. School.” Cue the praise hand emoji and the Champagne toast emoji and every other emoji fit for a celebration.

When post-grad life becomes the norm, though, and the days of homeroom and final exams become a distant memory, the “no more school!” refrain begins to sound more sentimental than victorious. Add in autumn’s signature chill (and Starbucks’ fall beverages, of course) and it suddenly feels like the lack of a back-to-school season is leaving a serious void in your 20-something life. With September just around the corner, we’re right there with ya, and our BTS nostalgia (dare we call it FOMO?) is at an all-time high. To show our solidarity, we’ve rounded up five reasons that this time of year pulls at our heartstrings. Keep reading for all the deets on our many feels.

1. Stocking Up on New Styles + Supplies: Whether the goal was a new pair of sneakers for gym class or a fresh batch of notebooks, who didn’t love the prospect of a good back-to-school shopping trip? While our love for new school clothes has transitioned over time to a general interest in fall fashion (statement sweaters, anyone?) and we’ve successfully converted our enthusiasm for a good spending spree at the office supply store to a passion for all things stationery, shopping — especially in August and September — is just not the same without the promise of a first day of school right around the corner. Sadly, there’s no way to replicate the excitement that comes with imagining how you’ll style a new pair of jeans for your school’s first football game, or planning how you’ll implement a new locker organization system with the nifty file folders you found on sale. And don’t even get us started on the hole that’s been left in our lives ever since we stopped getting to choose a new backpack or lunch box at the end of each summer.

2. Reconnecting With Friends: The only thing better than spending the summer months at camp, on family vacations, or simply laying low at home (admit it — everyone had that summer) was the anticipation that came with BFF reunions when all those other activities were said and done. After a June, July, and August chock full of adventures, heading back to school meant it was time to get back in touch with pals, catch up on all the summer happenings, and compare class schedules (duh). We all know that absence makes the heart grow fonder, and never was the saying more true than in the sweet, sweet transition between summer vacation and the first day of school.

3. Getting Back into a Routine: The ease and lack of structure that came with childhood summers was pretty magical, but so was the return to lunch bags packed with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, predictable TV rotations, and Saturday night group dates to the movies. These days, we cherish our independence, but it sure would be nice to have a similar post-summer safety net to get swept into as grown ups, especially if it meant we could get back to spending every day with our friends and not in a cubicle.

4. Setting Short-Term Goals: Life as an adult often seems to revolve around establishing and working toward the completion of big goals: saving up for a new place, nabbing a promotion, getting in shape, cultivating healthy relationships, visiting a friend in their new home overseas. These objectives are, of course, awesome, but they’re also hard to wrap your head around. They require extensive planning, tons of time, and even more patience (not one of our greatest virtues). And while great efforts often pay off in great satisfaction, it’s a different kind of satisfaction than we earned in our school days. At the outset of a new academic year, it was time to set our sights on goals we could reach in a few weeks or months: a better GPA, a spot on the softball team, the perfect birthday slumber party. Don’t you miss the feeling of those manageable ambitions? We know we do.

5. The Feeling of Starting a Distinct New Chapter: With those longer-term goals come seemingly longer, increasingly stretched-out life phases that suddenly begin to blur together. So removed from the days of yearly milestones and regular graduation ceremonies, adulthood is one long exercise in getting up each morning and kicking butt at daily life, even though there’s no proverbial carrot to pursue. Our academic careers were more clearly compartmentalized, and we knew that finishing one chapter would allow us to easily transition to the next.

What do you miss most about going back to school? Tweet us @BritandCo!

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Whether the kiddo in your life needs new back to school swag or you're getting a jump on this year's holiday shopping, New Balance is the place to look! From stylish sneakers to comfy clothes, they've definitely got something your little one will love. We're happy to share an exclusive discount code you can use at checkout to save some $ on your next spree: use code BRITCO15 for 15% of kids' products plus free shipping!

We've sifted through the New Balance kids section for the coolest picks that'll ensure your kid looks and feels their best – here are our favorites!

Kids' Shoes

New Balance

2002 Sneaker

These athletic sneaks are designed to provide "essential cushioning" and shock absorption with ample support around the durable midsole and outsole. They're perfect for the kiddo that can't stay away from the playground since they stay on securely with a lace-up closure. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

9060 Sneaker

These stylish shoes are equally supportive and soft, all while boasting some eye-catching, tech-inspired details. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

480 Sneaker

For a more fashion-forward look, the 480's basketball-inspired silhouette can work on and off the court. The rubber outsole is impressively durable, providing a good amount of traction in every step. Available in little kid and big kid sizes.

New Balance

530 Sneaker

The New Balance 530s are truly iconic. The 2000's design is made to absorb any sort of impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance that runs throughout the entire shoe, so your kiddo will definitely feel comfortable wearing them as an everyday style! Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

574 Sneaker

This "reliable" sneaker takes on road and trail shoe details in the lightweight EVA foam midsole cushioning and mesh paneling up top for added breathability. They currently come in 4 other colorways to suit your kiddo's personal style! Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

990V6 Hook & Loop Sneaker

Designed for toddlers & babies as well as little kids, these velcro-able sneakers provide a nice and easy on-and-off option for busy bees. The leather upper has reflective details for an unmissable look, plus the shoe is appropriately padded throughout for unmatched comfort.

New Balance

327 New-B Hook & Loop Sneaker

These lil' sneakers boast a "generous" toe box and instep that's designed specifically to support any first-walker's needs. The outer layers are durable, so they'll stand up nicely to daily wear. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

Kids' Clothing

New Balance

BB Global Crew

This 80% cotton and 20% polyester crewneck pullover is fitted with a brushed-back fleece material for a "soft and cozy feel." It makes the perfect fall and winter layer for your kiddo to bring to school on chilly days!

New Balance

CDL Floral Shoe Graphic T-Shirt

We want this adorable graphic tee for ourselves! The bold pink and yellow design will give your little one's look some serious street cred, since it features the iconic New Balance logo. Wears well with any NB sneaker!

New Balance

Brush Back Circle Floral Graphic Crew

This girly crewneck is also designed with a super-soft brushed-back fleece to keep 'em undeniably comfy and cozy.

New Balance

French Terry Small Logo Short

These soft shorts designed with an adjustable drawstring and side pockets are the ultimate school day uniform!

New Balance

Queue Tee

Another stylish graphic tee option, this pick available in kids' sizes XS-XL pairs seamlessly with anything from jeans to gym shorts.

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Who doesn’t love finding a great deal – especially when everything is under $15? Amazon is serving up the best bargains of the week, from beauty essentials to home goods and fashion finds. All shoppable at unbeatable prices, these 12 Amazon finds won’t break the bank if you’re searching for something stylish, practical, or just downright fun.

Scroll on for our top 12 best Amazon deals of the week!

Amazon

Stanley Quencher H2.0 14-Ounce Tumbler

Stanely cups for just $15?! Count us in!

Amazon

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid

This $14 liquid exfoliant is beloved for its ability to deliver smoother, more even skin with consistent use. It's more gentle (and more effective!) than physically exfoliating your skin, which can oftentimes do more harm than good.

Amazon

Bliss Block Star SPF 30 Invisible Daily Tinted Sunscreen

SPF is the star of your skincare routine, and this $11 (was $25) makes applying it every day super easy with a sheer, evening tint and silky-smooth feel.

Amazon

Newcosplay Super Soft Throw Blanket

Cozying up just became so much better with this $13 (was $20) pick. The ribbed texture definitely gives it a luxe vibe, but for less. Love!

Amazon

2-Pack 10-Ounce Overnight Oats Containers

Meal preppers, unite! These 10-ounce containers are perfect for overnight oats, yogurt bowls, or just sectioning out snacks to eat on throughout the workday. Snag the sleek yet durable duo for just $15!

Amazon

Hair Wax Stick

This convenient wax stick keeps your flyways at bay for the most seamless slicked-back buns or ponytails. Shoppers love this $5 (was $7) pick because its sleeking effects last all day long!

Amazon

DreamSky Wooden Digital Alarm Clock

Step up your bedside table decor with this gorgeous $15 (was $17) alarm clock – it fits right in with any home decor style!

Amazon

The Gym People High Waist Workout Shorts

These high-waisted $15 (was $23) biker shorts can stretch across tons of different occasions, from workouts to grocery store runs or just lazing around at home! You'll fall in love with them because they feature some convenient side pockets that can easily fit your phone or other small essentials you want to keep close.

Amazon

Bedsure Satin Pillowcase

This skin- and hair-friendly satin pillowcase is going for just $8 (was $13) to protect you from breakouts and broken locks. Shoppers adore how smooth it is to the touch, adding a very bougie feel to your bedtime routine for not much money.

Amazon

Sojos Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

Spring's out, so that means the sun's out! You might as well protect your peepers in style with these $13 (was $20) sunnies that come in endless different colorways to match each and every outfit. We love this green pair for a playful pop of color!

Amazon

e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm

This $4 – yes, $4! – lip balm keeps your lips lookin' and feelin' super moisturized when they need it most. It also provides a sheer tint of color, so you could easily rock a layer of it with or without makeup. Such an affordable makeup bag upgrade!

Amazon

Grace & Stella Pimple Patches

Our favorite skincare hack is slapping a pimple patch on any pesky breakout that emerges. These patches at least make the experience super cute, plus you can get 36 of 'em for just $5!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Even when you're thinking “inside the box," a bento box lunch for your kiddos is meant to be cute and a little silly. Whether you have trouble with lunchtime creativity or not, you can find a way to make lunchbox ideas fun way by including little one's favorite treats along with healthy snacks.

From edible animals to cool cutouts, these 13 bento box ideas will give you some inspiration on where to start in making the coolest packed lunches ever.

Ain't Too Proud To Meg

Stick To The Basics

The fun thing about a bento box is that you can literally cut up anything into cute shapes and the kids won’t care that it’s not fancy, prepackaged food. Make a list of their favorite carbs, fruits, veggies and proteins and then pick a couple from each category for a perfectly balanced meal that takes almost no prep time.

Shutterstock

Cutout Shapes

If you think putting together a bento box is a lot of work, then you just need to pick up some cookie cutters. Kids go crazy for food in fun shapes, and you might even get them to try something new if it’s disguised as a flower.

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Halloween is just around the corner! We love this spooky cute idea.

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For winter time, try this adorable snow-capped mountain lunch -- swap Vegemite for a nut butter or any favorite sandwich filling.

Kitchen Fun With My Three Sons

Monkey Bento

Mix things up by making a sandwich out of English muffins instead of bread. Continue the monkey theme with a banana and some cheeky crackers.

She Knows

Piglet Bagel

Satisfy their sweet tooth with this special strawberry cream cheese bagel spread and lots of fresh fruit sides.

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Try this cute cloud and rainbow bento for sandwich and fruit lovers. Shop the cloud and rainbow cookie cutters here!

Kitchen Fun With My Three Sons

Owl Bento

Um, will someone please come pack our lunch for us? These owls are almost too cute to eat, but your kids won’t have a problem devouring them.

Kitchen Fun With My Three Sons

Waffle Mouse

PB&J with waffles is obviously the coolest new sandwich on the block. Who doesn’t love breakfast for lunch?

She Knows

Teddy Bear Bento

You can use any nut butter to hold this adorable teddy bear together, and the chocolate chip details double as dessert. Fill the other side with snacks like yogurt, pretzels, cheese cubes and fresh fruit.

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Watermelon is still in season and are perfect bento treats. Try these tiny finger foods for tiny fingers!

Bento School Lunches

Minion Lunch

You can draw right on the banana peel and make the rest of the minion pieces with grape fruit leather, cheese and candy googly eyes. (via Foodtastic Mom)

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We love the tooth-picked turkey slices here -- make it a club "sandwich" with bacon, tomato, and romaine lettuce!

Tag us with your cute bento creations on Instagram and subscribe to our email newsletter for more back-to-school content.

Header image via Shuttershock

This post has been updated.

Zoë Kravitz may have moved on already after her split from Channing Tatum, but she's not the only one! According to rumors, Channing has his own new love interest — and she's apparently a model. While we want him to be happy, we're heartbroken to see one of our fave heartthrobs off the market yet again! So here's what we know about Channing, how we got here, and his alleged new gorgeous girlfriend.

Scroll to find out everything you need to know about Channing Tatum's alleged new girlfriend!

I believe that practically everyone has had their own personal "Channing Tatum awakening" at one point or another. For me, that came in 2006 when he starred as Tyler Gage, alongside Jenna Dewan as Nora Clark, in Step Up. What's hotter than a troubled, handsome, and surprisingly talented hip-hop dancer falling in love with a ballerina? I rest my case.

That's why it was thrilling to find out the pair began dating in real life and tied the knot on July 11, 2009. But then, after having a daughter together, Channing and Jenna announced they were getting separated in 2018, and plenty of fans were devastated.

Their divorce was reportedly only finalized in September 2024. Regardless, that hasn't stopped 44-year-old Channing from getting back out on the market.

First, on October 30, 2023, the news broke that he'd gotten engaged to Zoë Kravitz, an American actress and filmmaker most well-known for her portrayal of Catwoman in The Batman and directing Blink Twice, which also starred Channing as Slater King.

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Yet, one year later, in October 2024, Channing and Zoë called off their engagement and split up after spending three years together. Since then, the actor has seemingly begun seeing a younger model, 25-year-old Inka Williams.

Channing and Inka attended a pre-Oscars party hosted by the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) at The Living Room in Los Angeles on February 28. They've also been seen together around town. One source confirmed the pair were "seeing" each other when speaking to People after reportedly meeting through mutual friends.

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"She's great. She has her own life. She's young but seems older," the source said of Inka.

"Channing's doing well. [Inka] makes him happy. He's reuniting with Zoë later this spring for another movie project. It shouldn't be too awkward; they ended things on okay terms."

Inka, who was born in Melbourne, Australia, and raised in Bali, Indonesia, is signed to IMG, a top global modeling agency. She previously said that her childhood in Bali shaped her into a "very compassionate person," and she later moved to London to grow her career.

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In addition to modeling, the 25-year-old also launched her own fashion brand, known as She Is I, in 2019. Her mother often made her clothing when she was a young girl, and she viewed the business venture as a way to continue her mom's "legacy in design and bring back to life her amazing relations from the '90s."

"I always knew one day I would try my best to create those timeless pieces from her wardrobe! I still wear the pieces she made and wore through the '80s, '90s, and 2000s," Inka wrote on her brand's website.

Channing and Inka both have yet to comment on public speculation about their supposed relationship. Nonetheless, she did post a story from the beach on her Instagram @inkawilliams, with the words "I love you" written on top of the sand.

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If you've been searching for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with your little ones, look no further. Reading a children's book together is a great way to dive into the magic of Irish folklore, shamrocks, and leprechauns.

Here are some of the best St. Patrick's Day books to spark your kiddo's imagination and teach them about the spirit of the holiday.

Scroll to see our favorite St. Patrick's Day children's books!

Amazon

1. I'm A Leprechaun by Mallory Loehr

This book by Mallory Loehr and illustrated by Brian Biggs is a charming read for your youngest St. Patrick's Day celebrants. Recommended for ages 2 through 5, it introduces children to the playful world of leprechauns through simple, engaging text and vibrant illustrations.

The story highlights the fun-loving nature of these mythical creatures, who are known for their pranks, hidden pots of gold, and being talented shoemakers. It has an easy-to-follow storyline that's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

Amazon

2. Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk

If you have a little one who loves four-legged friends, you can't go wrong with Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk. This sweet story follows Tucker the terrier, who is having a rough time on St. Patrick's Day.

Well, that's until he stumbles upon a patch of four-leaf clovers. Little does he know this magical spot is home to a leprechaun who turns Tucker's luck around in the most wonderful way.

This heartwarming tale, fit for kids between the ages of 2 and 5, is perfect for young readers who enjoy fun animal stories and a touch of magic.

Amazon

3. Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola

Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola blends humor and life lessons in a way that captivates young readers. This classic children's book, recommended for ages 4 to 8, follows Jamie O'Rourke, who's known as the laziest man in all of Ireland, with a farm in disarray.

But when Jamie encounters a leprechaun and begins to grow a potato so large it seems almost magical, his luck takes a turn for the better. Yet, as the spud grows bigger, he starts to wonder if the giant gift is more trouble than it is worth.

Amazon

4. St. Patrick's Day, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg

This lively collection of poems, written by D.J. Steinberg and illustrated by Emanuel Wiemans, perfectly captures the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.

As a follow-up to Kindergarten, Here I Come!, this book uses fun, rhythmic verses to take kids ages 4 to 6 through all the exciting parts of the holiday, like wearing green, playing the bagpipes, and hunting for leprechauns. It has catchy lyrics and vibrant illustrations.

Amazon

5. It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun by Marilyn Sadler

Written by Marilyn Sadler and illustrated by Stephanie Laberis, It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun is a story about learning to embrace who you are. It's a delightful read for children 3 to 7 years old.

Connor O'Connor, a little leprechaun, isn't thrilled with his role in life and decides to use some magic to try out different jobs, such as being a carpenter, a fairy, and even a king. His adventures lead him to learn an important lesson about self-acceptance and appreciating his own unique qualities.

Amazon

6. The Leprechaun Under the Bed by Teresa Bateman

The Leprechaun Under the Bed, written by Teresa Bateman and illustrated by Paul Meisel, is a tale of unexpected friendship.

Brian O'Shea is a solitary leprechaun who enjoys a peaceful life. That's until a human named Sean McDonald builds a house right on top of Brian's underground abode. Despite their differences, a friendship begins to grow.

This humorous and whimsical book, intended for kiddos aged 4 to 8, serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely friendships can blossom.

Amazon

7. The Night Before St. Patrick's Day by Natasha Wing

Penned by Natasha Wing and illustrated by Amy Wummer, The Night Before St. Patrick's Day is a fun twist on the classic holiday story.

On the eve of March 17, Tim and Maureen set out to catch a leprechaun by putting up clever traps. Then, they wake up to the sight of green eggs and the sound of bagpipes and realize they actually caught one.

The only problem? They're not exactly sure what to do next. This story is full of surprises and will help get your kids between the ages of 4 and 8 into the St. Patrick's Day spirit.

Amazon

8. Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola

Last but not least, Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola is a beautifully illustrated book that introduces little ones to the life and legacy of Saint Patrick.

DePaola shares the story of Patrick's noble birth in Britain, his captivity in Ireland, and his eventual return to spread Christianity, founding the first Christian church in Ireland. It even touches on the famous legend of Patrick banishing snakes from Ireland!

This read is a stellar way to help children between the ages of 5 and 8 understand the importance of the holiday and the man behind it.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.