As my daughter continues through school, I have kept the first day of school traditions that were started back in preschool and some that were added along the way. Some are traditions inspired by our parents and my in-laws with some slight changes.These traditions help give my child a positive outlook on school and help with family bonding.
Here are some first day of school tradition suggestions:
Take A Photo – This is a very common tradition that has been passed down from generations, but now many of us share that photo on our blogs and other social media sites. As your child gets older, you may get some flack about having a photo taken, so do it in private at home and not in front of the school bus! Keep each photo in a special photo album and always write a date and the grade your child is attending on the back of the photo.
Special Breakfast – Prepare a special breakfast for your child. You can surprise them with something new, or something they’ve eaten a few times and really enjoyed or that fancy breakfast you only make for guests. You can also set the table with a new place mat, fresh flowers, or add a card that will put a smile on your child’s face.
Small Gifts – Give your child a small present, like that super-duper sharpener they asked for when you were buying school supplies, a new book, or a key chain with the school year. Decide if you want to give the gift before or after the school day.
Dining Out – Some families have dinner out on the first day of school to celebrate this special occasion. Go to your child’s favorite place to eat, spend time together as a family and talk all about what happened during the day. You can also do this for breakfast. Just watch the time!
Special Notes – Children of all ages love to get notes from Mom or Dad in their lunch box, backpack or pocket. They just won’t admit it when they’re older. Write something sweet, funny or both and be sure to add a smiley face or a heart. If your child is in grade 5 or higher, you will want to be sure the note is found only by your child and not by classmates. Lunch boxes are out by that age.
What are your first day of school traditions? Is this something that you came up with on your own, was it passed down from your parents or did you learn about it somewhere else?
