The countdown is on! To make your family’s transition into the new school year a whole lot easier and little more fun, we’ve rounded up a list of first day of school activities and traditions.
For more great ideas for kids heading back-to-school, visit our Back-to-School Guide and, if you’re in search of activities to savor the remaining days of summer, don’t miss out on our Summer Fun Guide.
Before School Starts
Get a Cool Alarm Clock
In the age of electronic devices, it’s easy to forget that most kids don’t have a built-in smartphone alarm to rely on. And, even if they do have one the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that they shouldn’t be in their room. A new and fun alarm clock can help make waking up on school days a little easier.
Pick Out the First Day of School Outfit
First impressions are important, and many kids want to at least have input—if not complete deciding power—when it comes to their first day clothes. Be sure to “shop” your child’s closet first. Have they made a new purchase over the summer that they can’t wait to show off to their friends? If you find that they’ve outgrown a lot of their clothes, be sure to check out the sales and coupons and go shopping for back-to-school clothes and shoes. Lay out the outfit the night before so there’s one less thing to worry about on the big morning.
Personalize Their Backpack
Backpacks don’t just carry books and school supplies—they’re also an extension of kids’ personalities. If you’re in the market for a new one, it’s important for children to pick out their own backpack (with guidance). If your child’s backpack is in good condition, consider adding some fun new patches, pins, keychains or other accessories to give it a bit of an update.
Shop for Snack and Lunch Essentials
Take your child to the grocery store to pick out what snacks and lunches they’d like for school. It will help ensure that your child won’t go hungry because they don’t like the contents of their lunch box. To help them make healthy choices, give them three categories of food that must be included: fruit, vegetable, and protein. And, then let them have a bonus treat, like chips or a dessert that they can choose.
Have A Last-Minute Summer Adventure
This is one of those back-to-school traditions the whole family can enjoy. Live out the end of summer as best you can by having a last-minute family adventure. Throw a pool party, go on a bike ride, go camping, or take a last-minute family vacation. Savor those final moments of freedom before the school year begins!
On the First Day of School
Take the Perfect First Day of School Photo
Now that the lunches, backpacks, and outfits are all in place, there is one thing left to do—take a picture! Leave extra time in the morning to snap a memorable first day of school photo. This is a tradition most families partake in, and it’s one you will always look back at and treasure. To help make the photo even more memorable have your child pose with a first day of school board or another fun prop.
Have Kids Write Themselves a Letter
If they can’t yet write, they can dictate the letter to you. Have them say what they’re looking forward to in the coming year, what they wish to accomplish, and any dreams they have (academic or otherwise). It’s fun to look back at the letter on the last day of school, which will be here faster than you know it!
Cheers to another new school year! What’s your family’s favorite back to school and first day of school traditions?
