This article was updated November 1st, 2023

There is so much to think about as back to school time draws near, but you definitely don’t want to leave your kids’ name labels until the last minute. Instead, get your kids involved, putting them to work creating cool charms and unique tags, while you use clever products to cut labelling time in half. Labelling their belongings, especially with unique tags, not only keeps their bags, hats and other bits and pieces of school paraphernalia out of Lost and Found, it also makes it easier for kids to identify their own items, with the bonus effect that it keeps them safe from sharing with others.

Easy Kids’ Name Labels for Lunchboxes

Look for water-resistant kids’ name labels to use on lunchboxes and water bottles.

Look for water-resistant and dishwasher-proof adhesive labels to make lunchbox and water bottle name tags last. Make sure they can be written directly onto using a permanent marker – that way it’ll make it a quick and easy labelling task. 

What You'll Need

Simple Iron-on Clothing Labels

For clothing, use kids’ name labels for fabric that you can write on with permanent marker

Hats, jumpers, blazers, sports gear – there are plenty of soft fabrics that need to be kept track of. Iron-on labels make it a cinch. But if you want to skip the iron, you can also just press and go. Simply write onto the Avery No-Iron Clothing Labels with permanent marker and apply to clothes – and even bags – waiting 24 hours before washing. 

What You'll Need

Go With Classic Key Ring Tags

Key ring tags are a great way to make easily spotted kids’ name labels

If you need kids’ name labels for something other than a flat surface, utilise key ring tags. You can find large sizes that have plenty of room for names as well as class info or even a mobile number for expensive items. For preschoolers, you could even use photo tags with pictures of themselves to make their daycare backpack easier to find. Fluoro tags add fun to sports bags, pencil cases and more, with the bright colours making things easier for kids to spot.

What You'll Need

Have Fun With Personalised Name Labels

Get creative with kids’ name labels – think bespoke initials or designs

Keen to skip the chore of handwriting multiple labels? At Officeworks Print & Copy you can order personalised printed labels, perfect for helping your child keep track of all their bits and pieces. 

What You'll Need

DIY With A Label Maker

A label maker will ensure your kids’ name labels are neat and easy to read

Another option if you want to skip the handwriting is this clever Dymo Label Maker. It’s battery operated and uses thermal printing technology so there is no ink or toner needed. You simply buy the kind of label cartridge you need, whether it’s paper, plastic, metallic or iron-on, then type in your words and it will print on the spot. You can even customise the font. These labels are fantastic for tech, stationery and even labelling drawers at home.

What You'll Need

Let The Kids Make Creative Name Labels

Encourage kids to help create name labels for their school backpack

Finally, give children the task of whipping up a bag charm, making their school backpack instantly recognisable. Think laminated name tags, beaded bracelets, pipe cleaner letters and more. It doubles as an excellent end-of-school-holidays craft project.

What You'll Need