Dante Beatrix Backpacks

There comes a time in every kid’s life when she has to schlep her own stuff (parents rejoice), and these fun animal backpacks by Dante Beatrix help with the get-up-and-go. These perfect first backpacks are made to last and the designs combine the whimsy of childhood with a modern sense of style. (The padded handles and back panel, and easy to clean 100% nylon make them very kid-friendly too.) With 13 animals to choose from (and nary a licensed character in sight), you’ll be able to find a fave friend (we especially like the furry ones, like Droolie the Doggy and Jean-Pierre the Squirrel) to join Junior on his adventures this summer. (Available at www.raspberrykids.com, $44.99 – 52.99)