Many back-to-school shopping guides concentrate on the littles, outfitting elementary school kids for their return to schoolrooms. But in doing so, they miss a larger demographic — the needs of middle-, high-, and college-bound students. The following recommendations from the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, should suit students of all ages, as well as their parents.

For one-stop shopping for voluminous necessities (supplies, clothing, electronics, shoes, accessories), the in-county malls are always a good starting place:

• Willow Grove Park Mall
• Plymouth Meeting Mall
• King of Prussia Mall
• King of Prussia Town Center
• Philadelphia Premium Outlets

Boutiques and other smaller retailers tucked around the county offer the chance to pick up something unusual, original, and stylish.

The Bryn Athyn Thrift Shop, for example, occupies a former barn, from which it sells a funky variety of clothes, shoes, and accessories.

A fun bag or interesting lunch box can be obtained at Skippack’s Le Butler’s Pantry. It also stocks reusable straws for young heroes intent on saving the planet.

Free Shop in Ambler has great fashions, and online, Penelope & Anastasia (out of Royersford) has merch with a great vintage vibe.

Parents who are gearing their primary-grade kids for class can find educational toys, backpacks, and notebooks at pucciManuli, Ardmore. The shop will deliver, taking additional stress off parents in the waning days of summer.

Past Present Future, also Ardmore, has books and games suited to the younger set. But it also stocks jewelry, décor, clothes, coffee mugs, and bags for their older siblings.

And finally, parents looking to tuck something truly unique into a lunchbox can give the hand pies at True Blue Bakery, Royersford, a shot. Or instead, bring home a few for those first-dinners-after-a-school-day meals. The convenience and delicious taste will make the final meal of the day a hit.