Cool Stuff
By Christine Davis
The World of Eric Carle backpack and lunchbag
Inspired by The Very Hungry Caterpillar, this colourful backpack and matching lunchbag is specially designed for children who are 38 to 42 inches tall. The backpack features a large, durable zipper, two outside pockets and one inside pocket, while the lunchbag has a side pocket for a water bottle and insulated to keep food cool. Available at amazon.ca. Backpack $25; Lunchbag $30
Cabbage Patch Kids and Pets
Their individuality makes them special and now the classic Cabbage Patch Kids dolls have Adoptimals, a pet collectors’ dream come true. Each one-of-a-kind kid comes with a key to be used to unlock the Adoptimals’ heartbeat. Available at Toys “R” Us. Cabbage Patch Kid $34.99; Adoptimal $19.99
Dole resealable fruit pouches
A fresh idea that’s great for back to school lunches, Dole’s resealable fruit pouches are a quick and easy way to enjoy canned fruit favourites such as Fruit Cocktail with Cherries, Mandarin Oranges, Sliced Peaches, Sliced Pears and Tropical Gold Pineapple chunks. Available at major grocery retailers. $2.99
Goldfish Crackers Made with 70% Organic Ingredients
Designed for families who prefer products made with organize ingredients, this new line of Goldfish delivers the same delicious taste you know and love in classic Cheddar flavour. Available at Walmart. $3.99
Made Good Granola Bars
Delicious granola bars made from whole grains and dried fruits are a convenient addition to the lunch box. Available in five flavours, including Apple Cinnamon, Chocolate Banana, Chocolate Chip, Mixed Berry and Strawberry, they’re free from eight common allergens and contain nutrient found in one serving of vegetables. Available at major grocery retailers. $4.99
Pencil cases
Every student needs a good pencil case and these French Fry and Emoji pencil cases do just the trick while adding some personality. Available at Walmart. French Fry $2.97; Emoji $4.97
Rubbermaid’s Brilliance food storage system
This new line is an all-in-one solution for confidently transporting and reheating lunch without the worry of making a mess. The airtight latches offer a 100 per cent leak-proof guarantee while the ultra-durable material keeps the containers stain and odour-free while being safe for the dishwasher, microwave and freezer. Available at Walmart and Loblaws. $5.97 – $13.99
Sharpie Clear View Highlighters
A unique, see-through tip provides precise and event highlighting across a page while Smear Guard ink technology resists smudging of many pen and marker inks, making school notes neat and easy to read. Available in four bright colours. Available at Walmart, Loblaws and Amazon.ca. $6.99
Skinfix Kids Eczema Balm
Kids suffering from eczema will be happy to keep this tube in their backpack for targeted, soothing reliefe and protection for eczema flare ups. Formulated to provide instant relief, the steroid-free, 98 per cent natural balm is detmatologist recommended and paediatrician tested, making it the perfect alternative to hydrocortisones. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart. $18.50
Spiderman Lip Balm
Your spidey-senses, and your lips, will tingle with this lip balm. Attached to a keychain for on-the-go use, the Amazing Pomegranate is a super flavour. Available at Walmart, Loblaws and Toys R Us. $5.95
Wonder Crew Buddies
Boys will be inspired to go anywhere and do anything with these little buddies, which combine the adventure of an action figure with the emotional connection of a stuffed animal. Choose from four diverse, 15-inch tall buddies and three adventure packs. Available at Toys R Us. Buddies $34.99; Adventure Packs $19.99
Break Free
New from Yulu Toys, this challenging action game will test your skills as you tace to pick the lock on your handcuff as quickly as possible and before everyone else. Two or more players. Available at Toys R Us and Mastermind Toys. $25
Playmobil Ghostbusters Sets
Enjoy paranormal play inside on a rainy day with Playmobil’s Ghostbusters sets. The Firehouse set is packed with all the Ghostbusters and plenty of accessories for hunting down ghosts while the Ecto-1 legendary action vehicle offers original sounds and functioning lights for ghostbusting action. Available at Mastermind Toys and mastermindtoys.com. Firehouse $99.99; Ecto-1 $59.99
Safe Breaker
Attention top-secret spies, Safe Breaker from Yulu Toys is a new electronic game that combines spy skill, memory and a little bit of luck, challenging players to crack the code and break into the safe. Two to four players. Available at Toys R Us and Mastermind Toys. $30