8 traditions to make the first day of school one to remember

Contributing Authors:

Children's Mercy Families

The first day of a new school year can come with a range of emotions – sadness to see the summer end, anxiety around change and excitement for new beginnings. Though however you’re feeling about the new school year, you can always find a way to celebrate. We asked our community to share some of their favorite back to school family traditions, so you can make your kiddo’s first day one to remember!

Make a special breakfast to enjoy as a family.
With the hurry to get out the door in the mornings, we know there’s not always time to sit down and eat together. For the first day of school, make it a priority! Whether it’s pancakes shaped as the grade your child is entering, their favorite omelet toppings or special pastries, kick off their first day with breakfast – after all, it is the most important meal of the day!
Count it down!
Does your family love to check things off a list? Make a special countdown as you prepare for school! Set up a chalkboard in your kitchen or entryway and check off each day, talking about one more thing your kids are excited for in the new year.
Make it personal.
Who doesn’t love something customized? Get your children a new water bottle or pencils with their names on them, and they’ll be excited to use them in their new classroom.
School supply scavenger hunt.
You’ll need to stock up on supplies anyway, so make it fun! See who can find all the items on their school supply list first, then celebrate after by grabbing a special treat.
Back to school sundae Sunday.
Ice cream is a favorite treat in the summer, so use it to celebrate the season as it winds down. Gather your family and neighborhood friends and set up a sundae bar the Sunday before school starts – don’t forget all the fixings!
Practice show and tell over dinner.
The evening of the first day of school, your kiddos will likely be excited to share everything about their day. Let them each take a turn talking about what they learned, how the classroom looks and what friends they saw they had missed this summer.
Leave little reminders of home.
Are you worried your child will feel a little sad or anxious to be away from you? Place a family photo and a note of encouragement in their backpack or lunchbox to remind them of you.
Document the day!
When the first day finally arrives, you don’t want to forget it! Take a photo of your child, and document some of their favorites, so you can always remember this stage. Here’s a template you can print and fill out. Just make sure you check your privacy settings and don't add any information you wouldn't want criminals to know about your child. And be sure to tag @childrensmercy if you share on social media!