Get ahead on back-to-school...the give with joy way.
Last year, I didn't even open the kids' backpacks until the night before school started. Let's just say I found some...questionable things in there. They all had to be emptied, washed, dried, and then I was scrambling to iron on (or super glue on) new patches.
Type B mom at her finest.
This year? The backpacks are already clean, the patches have been picked out, and Future Aneta is pretty thankful.
If you're trying to get ahead too, here are a few things I always like to have ready before the first day:
Fresh backpack patches. We don't buy new backpacks every year (except the one my kindergartner somehow managed to destroy). We add new patches and pins and the kids look forward to their new ones each year.
Lunch Box Notes to tuck in here and there throughout the year.
Custom Name Stickers for water bottles, lunch boxes, folders, and everything else that tends to walk away.
Habit Trackers to help everyone ease back into school routines.
Brain Dump Notepads because school seems to come with a hundred little things to remember, and I don't trust my brain to hold them all.
One of our favorite little gifts? An iron-on patch tucked inside a tote, zipper pouch or a sweatshirt. We also love using them to give last year's backpacks a fresh look instead of buying new ones.
They're an easy way to personalize backpacks, jackets, hats, tote bags, and just about anything that could use a little extra character.
Variety of designs including "Wild," "Western at Heart," and more.
Iron-on application makes it easy to personalize your clothing and accessories. I use super glue to adhere them sometimes. Just my tip and trick.
Durable embroidery ensures long-lasting quality and vibrant colors.
When you can’t be there to speak life into them, let these notes do it for you.
There are moments your kids face without you—navigating friendships, learning new things, or simply getting through the day. A small note in their lunchbox can be a quiet reminder that they’re seen, loved, and capable.
This set of 28 mini notes blends lighthearted jokes, encouragement, and prompts to spread kindness—helping them laugh, feel braver, and think beyond themselves. Perfect for school lunches, birthdays, or any time they could use a little extra courage and care.
Details:
28 mini lunch notes (2 of each design)
A mix of jokes, kindness prompts, and uplifting messages
Perfect for lunches, birthdays, care packages, and more
Boxed for easy storage
Another box of lunchbox notes here
Hand-lettered and illustrated by Aneta of give with joy
I wanted to keep my promises to myself more in creating habits. I know a habit tracker is no new invention, but I designed one I loved and the size I needed.
This habit tracker lists 31 days to mark. It does take 2 months to really form a long-lasting habit, but the thought of including 60 + days was daunting. With this tracker, you can focus on one month at a time. When you’re on your second month, simply mark the box twice.
Details
6 x 3” printed on high quality paper
24 sheets on the tear-off
Option to include magnet backer
Find the version for kids here.
Habit Punch Cards – A set of 8 fun, hands-on cards designed to help you build simple, meaningful habits. Track small wins like cooking a meal, reading 10 books, doing art, and more—all without screens or apps.
Part of the GWJ Analog Collection, these cards make forming habits playful, visual, and rewarding. Perfect for adults, kids, or families looking to slow down, create, and celebrate progress one punch at a time.
Details:
8 habit cards with punchable spaces
Focus on creativity, reading, cooking, and mindful routines
Encourages small, achievable wins every day
Brain Dump Pad – A simple 50-page notepad designed to help you get everything out of your head and onto paper. Keep it in your basket, on your desk, or by the counter so it’s always within reach when your mind feels full.
Perfect for jotting down thoughts, making quick plans, or clearing mental clutter so you can move through your day with more focus and ease. Part of the GWJ Analog Collection—made to support a slower, more intentional way of living.