Barometer: kids

Pear backpack

Brings a splash of colour to any uniform. £25, momymoo.co.uk

Mini Micro Scooter

Clear the pavement – it’s time to get to school. £54.95, micro-scooters.co.uk

Start-Rite Martin navy suede shoes

A classic choice for that all-important first day. £75, alexandalexa.com

Fire engine pencil case

A bold design that’s hard to miss, even in a crowded satchel. £8, cathkidston.co.uk

Marden charcoal blazer

So stylish, they might just wear it at weekends too. £150, caramel-shop.co.uk

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The line-up Educational apps

Alpha Writer

Drawing on the Montessori system, Alpha Writer has been designed to make learning to read and write a joy. Activities and tools – from phonetics and phonograms to a storytime section – allow a child to experiment as they grow in confidence. The app is beautifully illustrated, by artists such as Marloes de Vries and Zeptonn, with interactive sound and an implanted camera so that children can track and share their progress.

montessorium.com

MathBoard

It may use a blackboard and chalk layout, but the similarity to dull double maths ends there. MathBoard can be configured to suit any level, from young children through to adults brushing up their numeracy. Topics range from addition, subtraction and multiplication to long division and square roots – and students are helped to strengthen their problem-solving skills at their own pace.

itunes.apple.com/gb/app/mathboard

Barefoot World Atlas

This interactive 3D atlas brings the globe to life through its people, wildlife, countryside and landmarks, encouraging children to roam across the continents, making their own intrepid journeys to wherever takes their fancy.

No place is too far or too scary in this innovative approach to what is more mundanely known as geography.

itunes.apple.com/gb/app/barefoot-world-atlas