Starting small school traditions you can implement all year long creates memories your kids will look forward to year after year. Here are some simple school traditions you can start today.
Ideas for Traditions:
1. School Strut
Have your child pick their very own “walkout song” (like athletes and performers do) that makes them feel bold, brave, and unstoppable. Play it every morning as they head out the door, whether they’re hopping on the bus or getting dropped off. Pair it with a hug, high-five, or special send-off, and they’ll walk into school with confidence. Bonus: let them change their “walkout song” each season to keep it fresh.
2. Milestones Celebration Binder
Whether it’s finishing a tough project, getting a good grade, or simply making it through a challenging week, take time to recognize their effort and growth. Create a special certificate binder just for them: print out our pre-made certificates or make simple certificates to mark each accomplishment - big or small - to add to the binder throughout the year. By the end of the school year (or anytime you flip through it), you’ll both have a binder full of achievements to smile about.
3. Homework Hideaway
Create a designated spot for tackling homework and/or reading. Set up a pile of comfy pillows, put on some soft background music and offer a special snack. It signals “focus time” in a fun and encouraging way.
4. Backpack Treasure Hunt
Hide a tiny treat, sticker, or encouraging note in their backpack once in a while/once a week for them to discover. It’s a simple way to brighten an ordinary day.
5. Lucky Charm for the Day
Give them a small token (like a pebble, charm, or other chosen item) to carry on days they feel nervous. Label it your family “courage coin.”
6. Victory Dance Fridays
End every school week with a mini family dance party to a playlist you create of favorite family songs. Dancing together is a joyful, lighthearted way to celebrate making it through another week. After your dance party, go around in a circle and tell each other a favorite part of your week.
Remember that traditions don’t have to be fancy or Pinterest-worthy. They just have to be meaningful and special to your family. Wishing you a wonderful school year!
About the Author:
Heather Sakai has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022, serving as the Social Media Engagement Coordinator. She holds a Master of Science in Social Service Administration and a Master of Arts in Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. Heather brings experience in social work and mood disorders research, marketing and social media, as well as dance instruction for children and adults in both the United States and abroad. Passionate about connecting people through social media, Heather strives to make it a safe space to ask questions, be vulnerable, and share successes and struggles. She is also the administrator of Cuyahoga Parents Connect and warmly invites you to join if you are a parent or caregiver of a child from birth to kindergarten, or if you are expecting a child.