Dreading the chaos of back-to-school season? The endless shopping lists, last-minute scrambles, and forgotten essentials can overwhelm anyone. Cathy Pedrayes, a trusted lifestyle expert and mom friend extraordinaire, has curated a list of 12 must-have back-to-school items to help you start the new year on the right foot.

You’ll be surprised by some of the fun finds she spotted at Walmart, mixed in with essential basics and new gadgets.

Here’s what she had to say for her picks:

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Wonder Nation

Wonder Nation Girls T-Shirts

The essentials

Let’s start with some essentials —T-shirts! I highlighted one bulk option, but check out the Wonder Nation collection for shorts, leggings, hoodies, socks, and more for all the kids. I could only pick one for the list, but there's something for everyone!

Buying Options

$15.98 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; JLab

JLab Audio JBuddies

Kid-friendly sound

Headphones are a great way to stay focused on assignments. But you want something designed especially for kids so you get a better fit, it’s comfortable, and there’s a volume limit for their ears. These headphones do all of that, are affordable, and come in 6 color choices.

Buying Options

$11.65 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Justice

Justice Backpacks

Showcase your style

Let’s start with an updated classic. Everyone needs a backpack, and it's the perfect way to show off your style. I had to show you the Justice Girls collection because, seriously, how cute is this? The smileys and bright, vibrant colors are adorable. I wouldn't mind an adult version!

Buying Options

$26 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Acer

Acer Chromebook 315

Tech to power the year

Don't be surprised if a Chromebook pops up on your back-to-school list — it’s affordable, portable, and just right for schoolwork. I know in my area, everyone gets one but why not have a little fun with the color? My first computer was purple so this moonstone purple Acer is kind of a throwback.

Buying Options

$179 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Apple

Apple AirTags

Lost and found

AirTags are a great way to track important items like backpacks, sports equipment, and even rented instruments. If possible, label the AirTag, and remember to check the battery life periodically.

Buying Options

$79.99 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Crayola

Crayola Kindness Crayons

A colorful reminder

I wasn’t expecting to find these, but how cute are they? What a great way to remind our kiddos that they come from kindness and to be kind at school than with these colorful crayons.

Buying Options

$1.63 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Paper Mate

Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils

They're break-resistant

I took this assignment seriously and interviewed kids in the neighborhood to find out what they were using to write. One answer I got the most was mechanical pencils. You might remember those from school, but did you know they now have break-resistant tips? I didn’t, so I had to put them on the list.

Buying Options

$8.97 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Barbie

Barbie Pencil Pouch

Classroom chic

At this point, I’m not sure if I’m still shopping for the kids or for myself, but I love the classic Barbie silhouette on this pencil pouch. It’s playful and stylish, but of course, practical. Barbie is one of those icons that kids and adults love, so this one can be for mom or the kiddos. It’s also great that this one has three rings to fit into a binder, so it’s easier to keep everything together.

Buying Options

$6.48 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Disney

Disney Zip Up Hoodie

Cozy and cute

My kids love Disney, so when I saw this fleece zip-up, I had to add it to your list. I personally love a zipper hoodie for the little ones because it’s easy to take on and off without messing up the hair.

Buying Options

$26.99 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Crocs

Crocs Toddler & Kids

Slip-on comfort

When you’re rushing out the door there’s nothing easier than a slip on! I don’t know if it counts as a lifehack but for myself and the kids, I’ve come to rely on slip-ons almost as much as my phone. They’re essential and it doesn’t hurt that Crocs are incredibly popular too.

Buying Options

$39.99 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; Arctic Zone

Lunch Box Combo with Ice Pack

Keep it clean and insulated

One thing I always look for in a lunch box is Microban lining which helps with odors and staining. These lunch boxes have that plus a fun design. Because no one wants their sandwich smelling like yesterday's spaghetti!

Buying Options

$10.38 from Walmart

Credit: Mashable composite; Mark Hopkins; U Style

U Style Antimicrobial Wide Ruled Notebook

For you, mom

Another fun way to show off your personal style is, of course, through notebooks. I know this list is meant for kids, but personally, I’m big on taking notes on paper and using them to brainstorm, so every year, I grab a few of these for myself, too.

Buying Options

$2.68 from Walmart