The end of the school year looks different for educators around the world. Packing up classrooms on your own and having to say goodbye to kids virtually may bring a range of emotions for both you and your students. However, we know you still want to celebrate your students’ achievements and send your kids off for the summer having had an opportunity to reflect and feel proud of all they have accomplished. Here are a few ideas to help inspire fun and meaningful celebrations at home.
1. Close Out the Year with a Reflective Read-Aloud
You and your kids may appreciate having time to reflect on this unusual year and look ahead to summer over a final read-aloud together. Last Day Blues is a fun read that may spark meaningful conversations about how this year looks a little different while bringing smiles to the faces of your kids. The Friendly Teacher has a free book companion resource you can download on Teachers Pay Teachers to prompt reflection and creativity and can be modified for digital use.
2. Let Kids Choose the Theme for Your Celebration
Do your kids love dinosaurs, unicorns, or superheroes? Let kids vote and hold a themed end of the year celebration remotely! Your students will love coming to their final virtual class meeting adorned with a special mask, hat, or cape. Read books related to the theme, hold a special dance party, or even do a simple drawing activity together. Check out our collection of fun directed drawing videos on lots of subjects here.
3. Create an End-of-the-Year Slideshow
In preparation for the last day of school, we’ve noticed teachers putting together pictures of their favorite moments of the year. Kids can even take part in creating a slide of their favorite memory with words or pictures and sharing with the class during the final virtual class meeting.
4. Hold a Virtual Awards Ceremony
It doesn’t have to be fancy, but sometimes even adding a few balloons to your Zoom background and giving special awards to your kids for their unique contributions throughout the year can help your kids feel extra-special! Need a template? We’ve got an Epic certificate ready for you to edit and send digitally.
5. Send Kids Off with “Flat Teacher” Version of Yourself
Do your kids love the book Flat Stanley? Teachers around the world have joined the Flat Teacher movement by printing out Bitmoji versions of themselves to send to their students. Many educators also include a letter with simple words of encouragement to kids to bring them along on their summer adventures. Bored Teachers includes step-by-step instructions on how to make the “Flat Teacher” version of yourself to send along to kids with fun activities!
How will you be celebrating the end of the year with your kids? Let us know on Instagram or Facebook by tagging @epic4educators so we can share with the larger community of #EpicEducators!
