Well, ready or not, school is just around the corner (a week from Tuesday for my boys- way too soon!). We just got back from a quick camping trip over the weekend. Apparently we aren’t the only ones who frantically rush out and try to fit in all the last-minute summer activities we can. It took us searching through four campgrounds to finally find a spot. It wasn’t our first choice, but ended up being the perfect little spot for our family!
I’m not sure if you’ve been counting down the days until school starts since the second week of June, or if you’re ignoring all the school supplies that are lining the shelves right now, and hoping the first day of school won’t happen. I have to say I’m a tad bit excited. I’ve LOVED every minute of our summer vacation, but there’s something rejuvenating about this time of year for me. The former teacher in me wants to put up a bulletin board or two, go stock up on fun colors of dry erase markers, and sharpen a bundle of pencils. My twins, however, aren’t quite sharing my enthusiasm. They start first grade this year, and they’re a little nervous about being at school ALL day. So, I thought it would be fun to make a back to school countdown to make the week before school a bit more fun and exciting, instead of dreadful. Here’s what I did.
You can do whatever activities you’d like. Here are some of the activities my boys will be doing this year.
*Pick out your first day of school outfit
*Read ‘The Night Before First Grade” (click here for more great first day of school books)
*Write a letter to last year’s teacher (you could write one to this year’s teacher as well)
*Backpack Fairy (leave your backpack out one night before school starts and let the backpack fairy leave little surprises- books, school supplies, treats, new shirt, new lunchbox, etc…)
*Go to back to school night
*Look through pictures, projects, scrapbooks from the previous school year
*Choose an after school snack for mom to make for the first day of school (we love these)
*First day of school breakfast (here are some fun ideas to use)
I love countdowns because they can help build excitement and anticipation. I hope some of these ideas will help your kids (and yourself) get excited for the first day of school. It really is an exciting time of year!
Thanks so much for letting me take a bit of your time today. Come and see me at Blissful Roots anytime! I have some adorable DIY back to school labels and great teacher-approved reading strategies for your young readers.
So, so cute! I’ve been wanting to start some traditions for the beginning of school, and these ideas are perfect! We’ve already been in school for a week here in TN … talk about WAY too early! So, enjoy the rest of your summer while it lasts!
I can’t believe your kids are already in school! That is WAY too early. We’re down to our last week and we’re headed to grandpa and grandma’s for one last mini vacation. Thanks so much for your comment!
Very thoughtful post! I’m mixed! I’m a teacher, so I love getting set for a new year, a new start..but I am sad to see summer ending. I know that school is close when I get the back-to-school nightmares!
I still have those nightmares and I haven’t taught for over 5 years. I don’t know if I’ll ever get over them. What a lucky girl, to be a teacher! In my opinion there’s no better job. Teachers are AMAZING! Here’s to a great year!
Way cute, Brooke! You’re kids have a great mommy. 🙂
So kind of you, Mariel! I’m lucky to have great kids. Enjoy the rest of your summer vacation!