Embracing the Excitement: 1st Day of School Traditions to Start the School Year
- Jacklyn Swick
- Jul 30, 2023
- 3 min read
The first day of school is a momentous occasion, filled with anticipation, nerves, and excitement. As students, parents, and teachers prepare to embark on a new school year, establishing traditions can add a sense of comfort and joy to this special day. Let's explore five heartwarming and fun 1st day of school traditions that can create lasting memories and set the tone for a successful and enjoyable year ahead.
1. Breakfast of Champions
Start the first day of school with a special and nutritious breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. You can prepare a delicious breakfast spread, including your child's favorite foods or some symbolic treats to mark the occasion. For instance, you could make pancakes shaped like the first letter of your child's name or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. It's also important to allow for enough time to sit down together for breakfast as it allows for quality family time before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.
2. Back-to-School Photos (My favorite thing to do)
Capture the excitement and anticipation of the first day of school with a classic back-to-school photo. Whether you use a professional camera (this is a good option) or a smartphone, this tradition provides a visual record of your child's growth and milestones throughout their academic journey. Consider using a chalkboard or a whiteboard in the photo to document the grade, teacher's name, and career aspirations for the year. We love to use a chalkboard to document name, grade, teacher, what I wanna be when I grow up and date. We use the same chalkboard at the end of the school year and cross out "first" and put "last." I also always take pictures in the same spots so I can document how much they have grown from first to last day of school. It is so fun comparing both pictures.
Here are a few of my favorite chalkboards!
Don't forget the Chalk Markers
3. Special Note or Lunchbox Surprise
Parents can leave a heartfelt note of encouragement or a surprise message in their child's lunchbox. It could be a simple "You've got this!" or a longer, supportive message to ease any first-day nerves. I love these Lunch Box Joke Cards . Similarly, teachers can prepare a welcome note or a small treat for their students, making them feel appreciated and excited about the new school year.
4. After-School Celebration
After a successful first day at school, celebrate the occasion with a special after-school treat or activity. It could be a visit to a local ice cream parlor, a trip to the park, or a family movie night. I have taken my girls to the smoothie shop after their first day the last couple years and they love it! This tradition rewards everyone for their efforts and sets a positive tone for the rest of the academic year.
5. Time Capsule Keepsake
Start a time capsule tradition that your child can look forward to each year. At the beginning of the school year, have them gather a few items that represent their current interests, goals, and aspirations. Store these items in a container, wooden box , or a shoebox and seal it until the end of the academic year. Opening the time capsule on the last day of school allows your child to reflect on their growth and achievements throughout the year.
The first day of school is a moment that marks new beginnings and fresh opportunities. By establishing 1st day of school traditions, we can create a sense of continuity, joy, and connection that lasts throughout the academic journey. Whether it's through heartfelt notes, special breakfasts, or memorable photos, these traditions not only add excitement to the day but also strengthen the bond between students, parents, and educators. Embrace these traditions and watch as they become cherished memories that your family and students will carry with them for a lifetime. Here's to a fantastic and successful school year ahead!
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