Update: August 15 — Thanks to all who’ve entered! Our winners have been contacted.

There’s a lot of prep that goes into our kids’ return to school. School supplies, new clothes, haircuts, not to mention those big hugs and emotional boosts of confidence. As school approaches, the to-do list for parents gets pretty long. A few of our favorite local businesses are here to help — and are offering up some great giveaways to you! So take a look at these great local products and services, and take a chance at winning below…

Take your pick of super cute lunchboxes, backpacks, notebooks and more at Terra Toys!

Terra Toys
An Austin original since 1978, Terra Toys is a cherished spot for tots on Anderson Lane with 12,000 square feet of toys from around the world! But beyond toys, you’ll find adorable back-to-school needs such as backpacks, lunch bags, pencil cases, notebooks, and much more! They are also home of the Terra Art Gallery and Espresso Bar, a coffee shop crafting delicious espresso drinks and treats where you can get a snack while you shop. Learn more at www.terratoys.com.


Start school off on the right foot with new kicks from KidOshoes.

KidOshoe
Owned by the same family as Terra Toys and located next door, KidOshoe wishes to provide families with beautiful, fitted shoes that last, while making the shopping experience fun and easy. Visit this local shop to check out their huge assortment  — over 40 different brands from all over the world — to find the best fit for your child. Visit www.kidoshoe.com for more info!


Look cool for school with a new ‘do from Birds!

Birds Barbershop
We just love Birds Barbershop for their no-fuss, ultra cool salons. Taking the kids in to any of their 9 Austin locations is a never a chore, thanks to their video games while you wait, friendly stylists, and a happy, colorful Austin vibe in each unique neighborhood spot. Birds is also a one stop for the whole family. From the first haircut to a back to school hairdo, they’ve got juniors covered, but also can make mom and pops look fresh, too. Learn much more at birdsbarbershop.com.


Give the kids good clean fuel from ThunderKids Bars to boost that brainpower.

ThunderKids Bars
Pack those lunchboxes with all the goodness of ThunderKids Real Food Bars. Founded and crafted in Austin, Thunderbird Bars offer a healthy alternative to “energy” bars, and they taste great using only 100% all-natural and simple fruits, nuts, seeds and spices… and nothing else! With the goal of helping parents instill good food choices, ThunderKids Bars were designed just for kids with flavors they know and love, like PB&J and Chocolate Chip Cookie. You can find these online at www.thunderbirdbar.com or in many of your local grocery stores.


Have some family fun before heading back to school — and pick up a free backpack while you’re there!

Round Rock Express Kids Day & Backpack Giveaway
Mark you calendars for H-E-B Kids Day at the Dell Diamond on Sunday, August 12, when the Round Rock Express take on the Omaha Storm Chasers at 6:05 p.m. featuring events outside the stadium and postgame run the bases for kids 12 and under. Plus, the first 1,500 kids to attend will get a free Express backpack. Click here to purchase tickets.


Toybrary Austin has all the fun in store for your preschoolers!

Win a Gift Set for Preschoolers from Toybrary
Toybrary Austin offers a toy lending library stacked with shelves of toys for checkout, an inviting play area for kids, parenting classes, children’s classes, and lots of special events including concerts, puppet shows, teddy bear picnics, story time, and even parents nights out! But did you know that you can also purchase great new items for your kids at Toybrary? Get your preschoolers excited for school with a fun set of gifts from Toybrary, including: Melissa & Doug Pull-Along Zoo Animals ($20), Alex Jr. Tots Finger Paint Party ($25), Alex Jr. Monster Bubbles ($28), and Kathy Ireland Kids Memory Match ($15).


We wish you all the best getting ready for the new school year!

Check out this list of fun Back-to-School Events & Parties!