Rather than giving everything in a shopping bag at the the end of the year, I like to provide the kids with something that they can use for the Summer- a tote bag, or in this case a sand pail. Michael's always sells sand pails for $1 beginning in May. I bought a few puffy paints and painted on the school logo and the child's name. Inside, I placed their yearbook, a cd of photos from the year, a photo of the child that he/she had framed using craft materials, and a pair of cheap sunglasses. The kids love them! It's a great way to give the kids loot without the junk.

A special part of every graduation is when we the teachers thank the parents for sending their kids to school with us. These cards with roses really touch the parents' hearts and they always appreciate them!

You will need:

Blank cards
Rhinestones
Glue
Fresh roses- one per child
Vase

Have the kids decorate the outside of the cards with rhinestones in advance. Inside, write ir glue on a typed note thanking the parents for the kids for sending them to school. For older kids, have them write their own notes, or dictate to you. 

After the graduation ceremony, have a circle time/gathering and have each child present a rose and their card o their parents. Make sure not to put water in the vase- you don't want to give the parents dripping flowers!

Another great idea, is to do this on Mothers Day and/or Fathers Day!

The end of the year is coming a lot faster than we realize! I'll be interspersing some end of year activities with my regular activity ideas.
These Cupcakes are a fun activity to have the kids do with their parents, or to serve as refreshments.

You will need:

Cupcakes
Candy Buttons
Frosting
Gummy worms/ 1/2 Sour sticks
Rice Cake squares or Graham crackers for a more sugary version :)

First, spread some frosting onto the cupcake top. Attach the rice cake square. Stick on an additional dot of frosting at the center of the rice square and attach a single candy button. Add a diagonal line of frying from the button to any one corner and attach the sour stick so that it hangs off like the tassel.

Enjoy!