Back-to-School, Your Way: A Shopping Guide for Every Kind of Student at South Edmonton Common

Back-to-school season is officially in full swing - and whether your child is heading into kindergarten or college, one thing’s for sure: they need stuff. The good news? South Edmonton Common has everything you need in one place.

We’ve made it easy by breaking it down based on your kind of student. Let’s get into it.

For the Little Learners

First backpacks, colourful lunch kits, washable markers - it’s a big moment! Head to:

Walmart or Real Canadian Superstore for bulk school supplies and character-themed lunch gear.
Staples for name-brand crayons, scissors, and backpacks that can actually handle a whole school year.
H&M and Old Navy for mix-and-match basics they can dress themselves in (and you can afford to lose in the lost-and-found).
Don’t forget the first-day haircut—Tommy Gun’s has TVs at every station to keep the littles entertained while they get photo-ready.

For the Style-Conscious Tweens & Teens

Fashion matters, and so does function. South Edmonton Common is the place to find both:

Gap Factory and Levi’s Outlet for denim and hoodies.
Winners for budget-friendly fits that don’t look budget.
Sport Chek and Sketchers for shoes they’ll actually wear (and yes, Crocs do count now).
Staples also has a great selection of tech accessories, headphones, and backpacks that are cool enough to pass the vibe check.

For the College/Uni Crowd

Dorm life or commute life - either way, these students need a serious setup.

Staples is your go-to for laptops, desk organizers, and blue-light glasses.
Walmart for everything from storage bins to coffee makers (and instant noodles).
IKEA for space-saving dorm essentials, from bedding to lighting to small-space storage that actually works—and looks good.
Grab a planner at Indigo and some wireless earbuds at Best Buy so they stay on track in and out of class.
And for off-campus fashion finds? H&M, Winners, and Levi’s have you covered.

For the Parents

While the kids are getting ready for school, you deserve a little breather.

Grab a latte at Starbucks or Second Cup.
Pick up weeknight meal essentials at Walmart.
Book a last-minute brow appointment or self-care stop at one of our many salons and beauty spots.
Because let’s be honest - back-to-school isn’t just for the kids!

Fuel Up Mid-Shop

All that shopping calls for a snack break (or two). Refuel at:

Pizzeria Bros for a quick bite.
Earls Restaurant for a family lunch.
Garden Bakery or Marble Slab for a quick treat they’ll actually love.

Back-to-School, All in One Stop

South Edmonton Common has over 150 stores, services, and restaurants—meaning your entire checklist can be done in one trip. Plus, there’s tons of parking and space to roam, making it the easiest (and least stressful) errand day of the year.