The new school year is officially upon us!
With the kids heading back to the classroom, that means new routines and schedules for the whole family.
Steve Greenberg, author of "Gadget Nation," stopped by TODAY Thursday to share the must-have teach gear just in time for back-to-school season. From a backpack that converts into a crossbody purse to an alarm clock that will help you wake up, here are some seriously awesome picks you'll want to get your hands on.
Witti Beddi Glow
This isn't your average alarm clock. It wakes you up with sunlight-simulating light. It can also give you the scoop on traffic and weather as you get ready. Oh, and it charges your electronic devices while you sleep.
Laceez Kid's No Tie Shoelaces
Kids will love these no-tie shoelaces because they can easily slip on their favorite pair of kicks and head off to school. They make mom and dad's job much easier in the morning, too.
Grove Crossbody Convertible
This backpack comes with a zip-off crossbody purse for when they're on-the-go and just want to take something small. It also has a protective sleeve for their laptop or tablet. You may want to borrow it yourself for traveling!
ImageLock
These locks use pictures instead of numbers to make codes that much more fun. They're perfect for school lockers or even the gym.
The Award-Winning Penmanship Projector
This projector is a fun way for kids to practice penmanship. There are also images and objects to trace along with numbers and letters.
LeapFrog Scribble and Write
This is a perfect gadget for entertaining kids and teaching them how to write when you're on-the-go.
Pilot FriXion Color Sticks Erasable Gel Pens
These brightly colored pens allow you to erase and rewrite without a mess. They're great for taking notes, highlighting text and studying.
EnerPlex Jumpr Slate 5K-L Lightning Power Bank
Store this thin battery in a binder or folder to keep electronics charged throughout the school day. It's even small enough to put in a purse or keep in the car.
Black + Blum Thermo Pot
This thermos will keep your breakfast or lunch hot. It comes with a magnetized spoon, so you don't have to worry about utensils. Use it for school lunches or work, since it will fit easily into a lunch box.
Fasta Pasta
If you know someone headed off to college or are looking for a snack that's easy for kids to make on their own, this is the gadget for which you've been looking. It measures, cooks and drains pasta in a minute in the microwave. You can also use it for vegetables and soups.