Photo: Ian MacPherson. Copyright © 2011 Ian MacPherson.

Sent Junior off to school without his lunch again? Makes you want to gnash your teeth in frustration. Cubeo is a truly novel idea that makes packing the schoolbag simple and yes, even fun. The colourful device attaches to their backpacks and comes with over 80 re-usable stickers featuring common items for all school grades.

The Cubeo makes remembering what to pack, and bring home, easy. Photo: © 2011 Ian MacPherson.

The front window is for the stuff you need everyday, while a drop-down card has the things you need to remember for a specific day – say, swimming class or band practice.

Best of all, it encourages kids to take responsibility for their own things, which is a great lesson all on its own. Available here.