How to celebrate the last day of school

It was a difficult year for students as they learned to balance their education with COVID-19 protocols and restrictions.

This past year, children have definitely felt the absence of the freedom they experienced at school prior to the pandemic. Students have battled wearing masks to class, losing field trips and school dances, constant handwashing and sanitizing, having playgrounds divided into zones, and another round of homeschooling (in some areas). It’s been rough, but our kids are resilient, and now it’s time to celebrate their accomplishments and the last day of school!

I love the idea of serving children a special breakfast before they head out to their last day of classes. Consider cooking their favourites and serving juice in wine glasses. Making pancakes in the shape of their grade is easy and fun too.

Preparing treats to give to classmates on the last day of school is another fantastic way to make the day special. Handing out goodies is a simple way to help kids say goodbye to the friends they have spent so much time with during the past several months.

To make inexpensive treats to share, head to the dollar store and select something fun and age appropriate. Then package the treats with “punny” tags.

In the past, my boys have given out crazy straws with “Sip sip hooray, it’s the last day!” tags. They have also given out Freezies with notes that say “Have a COOL summer!” and balls that say “Have a BALL on your summer vacation!”

And don’t forget to bring something special for the teacher too. A handwritten note with a handmade gift is a lovely option and gift cards are always appreciated.

Having the kids craft a vase from a dollar store pencil holder covered with hot glue and crayons is a versatile choice. You can fill it with school supplies, chocolate bars, or a gift card.

Baking homemade goodies is also a fun way for kids to show their gratitude. One of my favourite ideas is to fill a mason jar with cookie mix and add a “A Sweet Treat for a Sweet Teacher” tag.

Establishing and continuing traditions has always been a priority in our home, so of course, we have a few last day of school activities we do every year. Our favourite traditions include touring the town with friends and collecting free “grading day” goodies from local merchants, getting ice cream, enjoying a special treat at home, getting a new book to read over the summer, and running through a last day of school finish line.

To make a finish line I start with a roll of paper, write out the words “Grade ### Finish Line”, and stretch the paper across my front door. Then, when my kids get home from school, they can run through it. I’ve been making finish lines for my kids since they were in preschool, and it’s still something they enjoy.

I hope you try some of these simple ideas for celebrating the last day of school. They really are wonderful ways to close out the year and kick off the start of summer.

Gina Bell is a mother of three and can be found online at www.eastcoastmommy.com.