Kick Off the School Year with a Smile!
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a new school year—fresh supplies, new shoes, and the anticipation of making friends and memories. To add a little extra fun to your child’s lunchbox or classroom celebration, we turned an ordinary box drink into a fun, school-themed surprise!
These adorable mini backpacks are a playful nod to your little one’s big adventure ahead. Not only are they practical (hello, hydration!), but they also double as a fun craft that kids can decorate themselves.
A Lunchbox Surprise with a Twist
Each drink is wrapped in paper to resemble a miniature briefcase—complete with a handle and a “pocket” for the straw. They’re perfect for classroom parties, first-day-of-school lunchbox treats, or a fun back-to-school gift for your child’s friends.
We’ve created two easy-to-use versions:
Fully Colored Briefcase: Great for when you’re short on time or want a polished, finished look.
Black-and-White Version: A hands-on activity that lets kids color and decorate their own briefcases for a personalized touch.
What You’ll Need:
mini drink boxes
printable template Double-sided tape
crayons or markers (for the black-and-white version)
razor or craft knife (for adult use only)
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Color (Optional but Fun!)
If you’re using the black-and-white template, let kids color and decorate their briefcases however they like.
2. Cut It Out
Cut out the briefcase and its straps along the edges.
3. Prep the Straw Pocket
Using a razor, carefully make a slit in the front pocket area of the briefcase where the straw will go.
4. Insert the Straw
Remove the straw from its plastic wrapper and tuck it into the pocket slit.
5. Wrap It Up
Wrap the briefcase paper around the drink box and secure the back with double-sided tape.
6. Add the Straps
Place the straps colored side down on a flat surface.
Fold about ½ inch of both ends of each strap.
Apply double-sided tape to the colored side of one tab.
Attach it to the top back of the box.
Add more double-sided tape to the white side of the opposite tab and secure it to the bottom back of the box.
Photography and styling by Chay Berger
This article originally appeared in Family First
Graphics by OMG Design.
2 Responses
My daughter is a first year teacher… She prepared these for her fourth graders for their first day.
They came out exactly like pictured!! Instant success!! Thank you Esther for getting her and her students off to an amazing start!
Wow—what a wonderful message! We’re so touched that this project added something special to her first day. Wishing her and her students an incredible year!