The time has come… the days are getting shorter and you can almost smell pumpkin spice in the air. If your kids haven’t already started back to school, I’m sure it’s right around the corner. Gone are the days of sleeping in, having breakfast at 10am, and staying up late for neighborhood campfires. As much as I hate the end of summer, I do look forward to a fresh start and a new routine.
That first week always brings jitters and excitement for both me and my kids. I always try to ease the tension by planning ahead and doing extra little things to show them my excitement for the new school year. By having that perfect “first day” outfit picked out and all your picture perfect accessories ready to go, you can feel confident and prepared for the special week! And don’t forget about those teachers… especially in the middle of a pandemic, they deserve a special little treat to start the year off right! A little gesture can go a long way.
Check out some of my favorite things that make that first week back to school special and memorable for you and your kids. Because we all know, the years fly by, and soon enough, our little kids will be big kids.
1. Scratch off lunch box notes - Don't forget to make your little monster smile at lunchtime with these cute, personalized scratch off lunch box notes.
2. Back to School banner - Decorate and make that perfect first day photo op with this cute back to school banner. Gender neutral and can be used year after year.
3. Red t-strap sneaker - Nothing pulls together that first day outfit like the perfect pair of shoes! These are the best combination of style and functionality.
4. Red tie sneaker - Cute but practical. Classic style sneaker for both boys and girls.
5. Amazon printable - Make the school year "AMAZING" with an Amazon gift card for your child's teacher or bus driver. Easy to download, editable printable.
6. Personalized placemats - Your children will love eating on these beautiful watercolor portrait placemats. Choose your color and face design to match your child! Laminated on heavy card stock, so easy to wipe clean!
7. Mommy and Me matching bracelets - Send your little one off to school with more confidence and a special reminder that you are still close with this sweet matching bracelet set. Adjustable sizing. Perfect for children with separation anxiety or those children heading to school for the first time!
8. Make that first day of school special from the start with a pile of pancakes for breakfast! Add this DIY banner using grill skewers, pom poms/felt, yarn, and alphabet stickers. Your kids will be sure to remember the extra love and effort that went into this breakfast!
9. The Kissing Hand - This heartwarming book is perfect to ease any anxiety about heading to school for the first time or getting used to being away from home again. Such a classic, back to school book with the sweetest message that your kids will be sure to remember!
10. First Day of School chalkboard sign - Use chalkboard markers year after year to remember your child's first day of school. Makes for the perfect first day photo!