The end of the school year is an exciting time. For this reason, it’s important to end the year with plenty of fun activities. These end of the year crafts are great way to say farewell and get ready for graduation!
Before and After Photos
This is a great way for kids to see how they have changed throughout the year!
Materials:
- cardstock or thank you card
- photos
- tape or glue
- scissors
- markers
I think it’s fun (and a little sad) to look back at the year and see how much my kids have grown. While kids can choose any picture (from the beginning of the year and the end), this is a good time to use up any “leftover” beginning of the year pictures and leftover spring photos. Teachers can also take pictures of the kids at the end of the year too. Take your thank you card and cut it in half. Next, cut out two “windows” and write the school year at the top (for example 2013-2014). Tape the two pictures behind the windows and then back the pictures with the back of the card.
5 Things I Learned in ___________
Students learn a lot each year. It’s interesting to see what they think are some of the most important things they learned over the course of the year.
Materials:
- washable tempura paint
- paper plate
- construction paper
- markers
At the top of a piece of construction paper, have kids write five things I learned in (their grade). Then, have them put their hand into some washable paint and put the handprint in the middle of the paper. Allow the paint to dry. Then, under the handprint have them write the five things they learned.
Up and Away
- Construction paper
- picture of students holding balloon
- string
Take a picture of kids with one of their hands in the air, as if they were holding a balloon (for accuracy, you could even have them hold a helium balloon). Next, have kids cut out a balloon from the construction paper. On the paper, you could write an inspirational quote on the balloon. Attach the string to the balloon and the child’s picture to the string. A great quote to put on the balloon is:
You’ll be on your way up!
You’ll be seeing great sights!
You’ll join the high fliers
who soar to high heights.
Dr. Seuss, Oh The Places You’ll Go
Random House, January 1990
These end of the school year crafts are a fun way to finish the year!
More from Melissa:
Easy Graduation Crafts for Preschool and Kindergarten
Teacher’s “You’re Not Special” Speech Gives Graduates a Dose of Reality
End of the Year Activities for Elementary School