Being the ultimate scholars, we've started cramming before school even starts. We've gone ahead and prepared a cheat sheat for you--go on and print it out so you won't have ink all over the inside of your hand.

If Your Student Is the Tony Hawk-Type
PB Teen's X-Games Skater Backpack is just cool enough--it has an iPod-friendly pocket and a strap to keep the skateboard secure.

If Your Student Is the Dian Fossey-Type
Look closely--this pink messenger bag appears to be gingham but is really a pattern of Paul Frank's Julius monkey. Before you write, we know Dian Fossey studied gorillas, not monkeys.

If Your Student is the Whimsical-Type
Fleurville's People Paks are not only great backpacks but they have coordinating lunch bags that attach right to the front. If your children aren't bring home books yet, check out their messenger bag/backpacks for little ones. 

If Your Student is the Unassuming-Type
Manhattan Portage offers something for everyone--simple, well-made ballistic nylon messenger bags, backpacks, and sling bags in tons of colors sizes for students from preschool to grad school.

If Your Student Is the Stephon Marbury-Type
NBA Team Jersey backpacks are available for every team in the league. Okay, we know they're hideous but they are made of authentic jersey material and have rubber basketball zipper pulls.

If Your Student Is Not the Charles Atlas-Type
Some schools require wheelie backpacks. The nurse at our children's is always touting the benefits of this style but somehow we still can't convince our daughters.

If Your Student Is the Al Gore-Type
It takes 16 plastic drinking bottles and biodegradable natural canvas to make this eco-friendly pack. 

If Your Student Is the Natty-Type
Four Peas has a whole line of messenger bags, backpacks, and lunch totes. We're having a hard time picking the one we like best...we love 'em all.

If Your Student Is the Semi-Aquatic-Type
It's all about the Jibbitz. The Crocs backpack comes in a bunch of colors with a bunch of places to trick out your book bag.

If Your Student Is the Non-Conformist-Type
LL Bean just started a line of custom backpacks and messenger bags. Definitely for older students (they're on the large side)--but you pick all the colors, including zipper pulls and handles, and can even have it monogrammed. Order quickly...there's a several-week lead time.

If Your Student Is the Lizzie Borden-Type
Okay, we know this log backpack won't hold a lot of books but it could be a good ice breaker on the playground.

What will our children be hauling around come September? We're still in summer mode so they'll probably be the ones with the Food Emporium plastic bags.
--Cheers! A&H