Our family has always loved traditions and celebrations! In our book, milestones and fresh starts always call for something celebratory. Wouldn’t you agree?
I know that many choose to celebrate the end of a successful school year. However, why not get the kids excited and celebrate the beginning of one too? Especially after 2020, I think it is safe to say that many of us are excited about heading back to the classroom.
In our case, Ashley is starting PreK-4. We are all very excited. Especially since she was in "Mommy School" for the past year.
As the traditionalists that we are. Haha. We are eager to commence some fun ways to celebrate the commencement of the school year.
The majority of our friends (you), said that your children will be heading to Pre-K all the way to 6th grade. These ideas are perfect for all age ranges, and can be modified to fit each and every family.
So let’s get to it!
TRADITIONS
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL INTERVIEW
I love this so much! it is so simple and gives you the perfect excuse to see where your child is as far as interests, aspirations, etc. I also think that it is a fantastic way for children to look back once the school year ends (last day of school interview) and see how much they have grown and maybe even changed throughout the course of a year.
Courtney over at I Watch Them Grow Party + Printables has the most adorable free back to school interview printable. Click here to head over to her page and get your download today.
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPH
Whether you want to keep it simple with a printable sign, a chalkboard, a letter board or get super creative with something else… a first day of school photograph is a MUST!
Bessy over at Simply Bessy has a great free first day of school sign printable. Click here to head over to her page and get your download today.
GIFTING YOUR CHILDS TEACHER
Teachers will spend so much time with our children throughout the year. Getting to know them, educating them and working hard equipping them for the next grade level. Picking something from their wish list is a great idea. If they do not have a wish list, a Starbucks card or treat might be the way to go.
You can always add a back to school note to the teacher. Different, huh?! I thought this was such a practical and fun way to introduce your child.
The Chickabug Blog has a great free back to school letter to the teacher printable. Click here to head over to their page and get your download today.
BACK TO SCHOOL HOME LIBRARY
Many families read themed books for different holidays. Why not do the same for back to school? A few mom friends have recommended some pretty awesome reads. You can always visit your local library to check some out or order a few favorites and build up your library. Our very first school themed book is "Natasha Wing's The Night Before Preschool."
Visit our Amazon storefront under Back To School Books for more!
BACK TO SCHOOL MATCHING BRACELETS
I foresee some separation anxiety from both Ashley and myself. This will be her first official school experience. So, I was stoked when I discovered that “back to school bracelets” were a thing. They even come with an adorable poem that you can read to your child.
Click here to visit our Amazon storefront and purchase the one shown above.
CELEBRATIONS
HAVE A BACK TO SCHOOL THEMED CELEBRATION
Transitioning from a fun summer to a back to school routine does not have to be boring! Crafty Holiday Helper created a kit with everything you need to celebrate with your family. The party in a box is for four people. With over 86 items included, it has so many delightful decorations, sweets and table settings to celebrate in style. Great thing is its open ended… you can celebrate the weekend before back to school, the day of, end of the week or even end of the first month. We love the flexibility and all the fun pieces.
Head over to her page Crafty Holiday Helper and use code GAMEOFMOMS to get a special discount on your order. Believe me, you’ll be hooked to her kits.
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL TREATS
Whether you decide to show up in the pickup line with something deliciously sweet, bake together or go out for ice cream. Who doesn’t love a treat to celebrate a great day or week?
Smash Box Miami is offering two delicious options "Time for S'more Learning" and "You're One Smart Cookie". Both include three different kinds of candies inside. This is a surprise the kids will love and you can all enjoy as a family.
FAMILY BACK TO SCHOOL DINNER
There is something so special about sitting together at the dinner table for a delicious meal. We typically only use our dining table for special occasions, so it is a perfect way to mark the day as special.
If your kids have a favorite meal, this is a great day to make it. Or, you can always do an indoor picnic with finger foods (if that is what they are into).