Backpacks that Make a Difference: Sydney Paige {Review}

When both of my girls reached the age when they would start attending preschool, they were extremely excited. Not only for the opportunity to be a "big kid" or the chance to get to go hang out with friends for a few hours... but because of their backpack.

That's right, their backpack.

Both kids have always been somehow enthralled by the way that backpacks offer the capability to tote things around and that they contain your own special belongings for you. Add to that the way that this single accessory is the symbol of being old enough to head off to school and it has been love from day one.

But let's be honest. Other than some extra pockets or a cheesy licensed character, nearly all backpacks are basically the same and not really anything to get excited about.

But... what if there was something more? What if there was a way to purchase a backpack that would be enjoyable and functional while, at the same time, it helped to make a difference in the world? One that gives knowledge and a feeling of global responsibility? Inspiration and encouragement to take action in our lives to think of not only ourselves?

That's exactly what is found with Sydney Paige.

Across the United States, 1 in 5 children live below the poverty line, a statistic that makes my heart hurt every time I see it. So when I hear that the mission of Sydney Paige is to promote the importance of education and enrich the life of a child in need while empowering those more fortunate to help break the cycle of poverty . . . one child at a time, it makes me beyond proud to support them.

For customers, the process is simple! For every backpack bought, the same one —not a cheap imitation— is filled with age-appropriate school supplies and given to a child in need (customers are able to designate the non-profit that will receive this great donation), giving these kids much-needed confidence for returning to the classroom. Children around the world deserve to gain an education, and they need supplies to do so this back-to-school season.

Needless to say, I was already in love with Sydney Paige and their "Buy 1, Give 1" process by the time I started browsing their amazing products. With backpacks available in four different sizes for toddler to adult, fantastic accessories for all ages (lunch bags, tablet sleeves, and more), and stunning children's books sharing the company's positive messages, there is easily something for everyone.

Why wouldn't I want to send my child off to school carrying a stylish and trendy Sydney Paige backpack when it is also helping kids in need?

Although both Big Sister E and Little Sister B would have loved to have the chance to carry any of the Sydney Paige backpacks, it was easily love at first sight when the Raleigh Laptop Backpack in Purple Patch arrived at our door.

From the World Changers line (for kids 4' - 6.5'+ tall), this beautiful backpack features a chic circular design on the strong polyester exterior and plenty of accessory hooks on the front.

The reflective piping around the front adds safety (as well as more style) and the two expandable side pockets are perfect for when my daughter needs to stash a water bottle for hot days. I appreciate the padded, reinforced bottom to help keep this backpack from wearing thin as it is placed along all sorts of textured surfaces while Little Sister B is fond of the padding along the breathable mesh back.

But when it comes to what really has my daughter excited to bring her Sydney Paige backpack to school, it has to be the endless number of pockets and compartments.

There are two zippered pockets along the front along with a convenient accessory pocket, complete with ID holder, key fob and smaller pockets for supplies. At the same time, for older kids that like to listen to music or have a phone to carry, this backpack has a top zipper pocket that is the perfect size to keep their technology safe. There is even a small hole in the pocket that leads right to the earbud port for easy listening!

Finally, Sydney Paige did anything but neglect the main compartment of this backpack, as it is easily accessible with a double zipper and has more than enough room for Little Sister B to tote her belongings to and from school. She has already declared the padded laptop sleeve (large enough to fit up to a 15" laptop) the perfect place to slide in her daily folder!

While wearing a backpack is a necessity for preschool through college and beyond, that doesn't mean that you can't support a great cause (and teach your child a fantastic lesson about giving) at the same time.

Sydney Paige is making a difference in the lives of low-income children by giving them the tools, courage and confidence to learn and thrive in school, stay in school, and graduate... and making it easy for all of us to help their mission with the simple purchase of one of their great backpacks this coming back-to-school season!

Find out more about all of the incredible products offered and the difference that Sydney Paige is making for kids everywhere by visiting SydneyPaigeInc.com and connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Other than the Raleigh Laptop Backpack that I was provided by Sydney Paige to facilitate my review, I was not compensated or enticed to do this post in any way. This post is solely my honest opinion of this product and this amazing company.