Back to school means new clothes, new shoes, new backpacks and new technology. From affordable laptops and tablets to clever ways to keep track of belongings, we’ve got the goods on smart tech for the return to class.
Acer Aspire Vero Laptop
Why we love it: Laptops are an essential tool for school and home. We love the this pick not only for its power, but because it’s designed with the planet in mind: It uses 30 percent PCR plastic in the body, saving around 21 percent in CO2 emissions.
$950, staples.ca
Beats By Dr. Dre Studio3 Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones
Why we love them: Noise-cancelling headphones are useful for children who need to concentrate. These beauties are perfect for listening to tunes during work time or playtime as well as eliminating distracting extraneous noise.
$400, bestbuy.ca
Logitech POP Keys Mechanical Wireless Keyboard in Daydream Mint
Why we love it: How gorgeous is this funky wireless keyboard? And aside from being cute, it can be paired with up to three devices via Bluetooth or USB conversion. It’s perfect for kids of any age so they can move from room to room and stay connected.
$130, staples.ca
Apple iPad Air
Why we love it: An 8-core CPU delivers up to 60 percent faster performance than the previous generation. The iPad Air allows users to play graphics-intensive games and multitask between apps. Even better? From now until September 26, students can save big on a new Mac or iPad with Apple’s education discount.
From $749, apple.com
Tile Combo Starter Pack
Why we love them: With kids’ activities galore, keys, phones, wallets and backpacks are bound to get lost or misplaced. That’s where Tile comes in—it’s a tag you attach to items that electronically signals to the base when misplaced. No more frantic 30-minute searches for that favourite water bottle!
$55, thetileapp.com
Replogle IntelliGlobe II Smart Globe
Why we love it: Learning geography can be fun, factual and informative. This globe—the most informative interactive smart globe available—is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. It’s easy to use. Just point the IntelliPen anywhere on the globe and your child can learn more than 30,000 facts!
$235, mastermindtoys.com
VTech KidiGo Walkie Talkies
Why we love these: Who doesn’t love a good walkie talkie chat? Keep in touch with your little ones while they’re outside or at a neighbour’s house after school (or while they’re playing and you’re working on another level of the house!). This set works up to 650 feet with clear communication. You can even play games and send preset messages.
$49, VTech.ca