Let's get you set up
Connect your Google account so BackpackBuddy can read teacher emails and create calendar events. Takes about 2 minutes.
Step 1: Connect Google
Google will ask you to grant a few permissions. Here's exactly what we request and why:
| Permission | Why we need it |
|---|---|
| Read Gmail | To scan emails from your child's teacher, only those addresses, nothing else in your inbox |
| Google Calendar | To create homework and event entries automatically |
| Google Drive optional | To save permission slips and newsletters, you can skip this and still get full calendar + digest features |
What you'll see
Google asks you to sign in
Pick your Google account, same as signing into any Google app.
A plain "Google hasn't verified this app" screen
Tap Advanced, then Go to backpackbuddy.app.
Why does this show up?
Expected during beta while our security review (CASA, OWASP ASVS Level 2) finishes. It disappears once Google completes verification.
Check the permission boxes and you're in
The same three permissions from the table above.
We use Google's official OAuth, we never see your password.
Read our Privacy Policy
Add your kids
Tell us which teachers to watch. You can always add more later.
You're all set!
BackpackBuddy is now watching your kids' teacher emails.
What happens next
- Every evening at 9 PM ET, we scan for new teacher emails
- Homework and events get added to your Google Calendar
- You'll get a daily digest summary via email
- Teacher emails stay in your inbox — turn on auto-archive in Settings anytime to keep things tidy
Want to never see a bill?
You're in the free beta. Founding families lock in lifetime access to every premium feature for $89, one payment ever.
See the Founding Family offer →You're in the Free Beta
Your account is free during the beta. We'll email you before anything changes at public launch.