As summer draws to an end it is time to start thinking about back to school traditions you want to do start with your family. Summer is a great break from the routine of school and after school activities. A time when kids can be kids and enjoy new experiences. There is no homework to worry about and running around trying to squeeze in after school dance or baseball practices. When August rolls around usually the parents are ready for kids to get back into a routine of heading back into the class room.
As a new school year approaches I like to take some time to kick off the start to a new year right! Getting the kids excited and ready for a new year can be so fun and help new transitions (a new teacher, school, trying a new club or activity). I rounded up some of my favorite back to school traditions I’ve personally done with my kids and some I am excited to try this year.
Here are some great back to school traditions to start a week or two leading up to the night before school starts. Take advantage of the fleeting days of summer and enjoy all the last moments of summer break. Then the last few ideas shared are great to try the night before or morning of heading back to school.
Check off your Summer Bucket List
Look at all the items you wanted to accomplish this summer and check it off your summer bucket list. Enjoy the last week or two before the first day of school and finish all those fun projects or activities. Make the last day of summer special, maybe a water gun fight, bubble party or use some sparklers.
Start Reading Books about the First Day of School
Get those first day jitters out by reading some books that talk about the first day of school, meeting new friends, and trying something new. Snuggle in bed and reassure your child that going back to school is exciting and ease any fears they may have. They are going to learn so many new things! Here is a great list of Back to School Read Aloud Books recommended from a fellow teacher.
Leave some Encouraging Words
After the kids are in bed leave some encouraging words around the house for your children to see when they wake up and head out to the bus stop. Leave post it notes on the mirrors, write some messages on dry erase or chalk boards in the house, or out in the driveway with some chalk. Here are some simple pep talk messages
- I love you!
- Have a great First Day!
- You will do great!
- You are so brave!
- Try your best today!
- Relax and have fun today!
Special Breakfast
Start the day off right with a special breakfast. Muffins, bagels, egg sandwich, cinnamon rolls or what ever makes your kids happy. Decorate the kitchen table area with some streamers or balloons. Kids will be excited to start their day!
Take a First Day of School Photo
Before the kids head to the bus stop or hop in the car snap a couple of pics with a back to school sign. Felt boards are a great to use or find a printable off Pinterest or Easy. This is a great keepsake to keep in the kid’s scrapbooks. Take one on the last day of school to see how much everyone has grown and changed.
Leave a Special Note
Pack a special note in your child’s lunch box. They will see your encouraging words midday and feel your love while they are away. It’s a nice reminder that you are thinking of them. Write a note for the teacher as well. Thank them for their hard work and dedication to teaching your child.
After School Treat or Special Dinner
Once the day is over treat your kids to an after school treat like donuts or ice cream or make or take the family out for a special dinner. Ask them about their day and what they liked and didn’t like. Ask kids what goals they want to accomplish in the upcoming year. I guarantee they will be excited to share all the details of their fun filled day.
I’m wishing you and kiddos a great first day of school! I hope you enjoyed these fun back to school traditions. I’d love to hear what you plan on doing for the first day of school. Any of the back to school traditions listed in the post or do you have a special tradition you and your family do?
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