I can’t believe it’s almost the end of the school year, and summer is around the corner. I wanted to take this time to share a few end of school ideas for the young ones. I have done these for Emma throughout the years.
SIGNATURE ITEM
Emma graduated from Pre K a few years ago and had been going to Primrose ever since she was 8 weeks old. She knew some of her classmates just as long. I wanted to do something special for her Pre K Graduation. That’s right, graduation with a cap, gown, ceremony and all the attention for our little 5-year-old. I wanted Emma to remember all her friends from her school before she headed off to Kindergarten. I found a super cute graduation puppy specifically made for signatures. Emma loves puppies and all the kids knew how to write their names, so it was perfect.
To keep it a surprise, I asked the teacher to have all the kids sign it – including Emma. I also got her teachers to sign the puppy. The markers that came with it didn’t write on the fabric very well. I recommend getting actual fabric markers. Lesson learned.
There are a variety of stuffed animals and items that kids can sign. Even kids that are older can get their friends to sign something such as a bowling pin, soccer ball, pillow, ball cap or even a t-shirt.
DR SEUSS KEEPSAKE BOOK
I love this keepsake because it can stay with the child for years and years. Ideally, you want to start when the kids first start school, but it is a long term commitment. I chose the book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go” by Dr Seuss. It’s a classic gift that you present to your child when they graduate from High School and begin their new journey.
At the end of every school year, ask your kid’s teachers, coaches and mentors to write a message for your child, sign and date it. I’d also have them include details on who they are, such as Kindergarten Teacher, Dance Instructor or Soccer Coach. You will continue this as your child grows.
I started Emma’s when she was about 4 years old, and I love reading the messages written for her. There are so many sweet and encouraging notes from all the great people that have been influential to my child. This idea isn’t for everyone, but if you believe this is something your child would really love to have then it’s all worth it.
THE FRIENDS PHOTO BOOK
When it comes to the best school memories, it’s usually a lot about the friends and all the fun they have together throughout the year. You end up having tons of pictures of everything your kid does. Why not put it all in a simple photo book for the year? It’s a great way for them to be able to flip through memories and remember teachers, classmates, friends and all the things they got to do during the school year.
This idea came from a photo book that we created for a friend who moved away. Emma and I created a Best Friends Forever photo book with all the years they spent together with friends and had two books printed: one for her to keep and one to give to her friend. They still flip through it when they miss each other and remember all the great times they had together.
If you have time, create the photo book before the end of the school year. Remember to add a few random blank pages throughout the book. Your child can take it to school and have their friends write messages on the blank pages. It’s a great keepsake and unlike formal year books, it’s all about your child.
I hope these ideas help you commemorate another great school year with wonderful memories for you and the kids. Let us know if you have other great ideas to share. Now it’s time to start enjoying the Summer with pools, vacations, fun, friends and family.
Love,
Jeannie
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