Susie Steckner
Special for arizonamoms.com
Apr. 30 2008 9:26 pm
Graduations are just around the corner. Here are some ideas to boost the special day for your kindergarteners:
For girls:
1. Dressed in a cap and gown or "Class of 2008" tee, kids will feel all grown up and ready for their first-grade future with a cute bear.
Check out http://bandannabear.com or www.personalcreations.com. Prices range from $18 to $35.
2. Keep it simple with a small bouquet of flowers, complete with a Mylar balloon.
Find them at any Valley grocery store chain for $10 or less.
3. Try a picture frame that chronicles your little one's journey to kindergarten.
Check out the "pre-school" frame that holds multiple pictures at http://time-frames.com. Prices range from $30 to $50, depending on size and frame type. Frames can be personalized as well.
4. Plenty of books exist to get your child excited about first grade or the future. Try these two: The simple and fun "Let's Get Ready for First Grade," at http://www.wisconsinmade.com for $14; and the Dr. Seuss classic "Oh the Places You'll Go," at Valley Barnes & Noble stores or www.barnesandnoble.com for $13.
5. Encourage writing, reading and creativity with the cute pink Mad About Plaid Lap Desk at www.personsonalizationmall.com for $30.
For boys:
1. Fill a large sand bucket with fun summer toys, including bubbles, sunglasses, sand toys, water balloons and more. Find items at discount chains, such as Target or Wal-Mart store, or grocery stores for under $20.
2. Give your little reader a boost with a personalized book. Try "The First Adventures of Incredible You" at www.custommadeforkids.com for $33.
3. Find a cool backpack or lunch box and monogram it. Check out the critter lunch box at www.llbean.com for $16 ($6 more for personalization) or the Ergo Pack Junior in light blue at www.landsend.com for $38 ($5 more for personalization). You also can pick up these items at Valley stores, such as Target or Wal-Mart, and head to the nearest monogram store.
4. Pick out a piggy bank and stuff a few bucks inside. Have it personalized for fun.
Try the silver-plate train bank, with an engraved name and date, at www.thingsremembered.com for $20. If you're creative, pick out a bank at a Valley pottery studio, then paint and personalize it. Check out www.asyouwishpottery.com for Valley locations. Cost is about $8 for adults, plus the cost of pottery.
5. Check with the PTA about ordering a T-shirt, pennants, pencils or anything bearing the school name and mascot to boost your child's school spirit. You can also pick out an inexpensive polo-style shirt and have the school name monogrammed yourself. Costs vary.
