Last Day of Summer Party!

I’m happy with any excuse for a party! This one is a little bittersweet – so ice cream felt like the perfect theme. A “last day of summer” party is a great way to help children mark the end of one season and move into the school year with a positive attitude. This can also be a really powerful tool for the classroom. If you have students that have been with you all summer and they’ll continue to stay with you throughout the school year, this can help make that mindset change from summer to the school year. It’s also a great way to say goodbye to children who were part of a summer program and will be heading back to school.

Here’s what I’m planning – from decor to activities. All of these links are Amazon affiliate links, so I’ll make a portion of the proceed if you purchase, and you have convenient access to the same items I’m using. It’s a win-win!

Inflatable ice cream cones – These can serve as both decor and favors, and let’s be real – what kid doesn’t want a 3 foot inflatable ice cream cone?!

Ice cream sticker activity – Stickers are such an easy activity that truly engage children and work those fine motor skills. This set comes with 36 sheets, so children can use them during the party and take a sheet home too.

Paper products – Being able to buy a full set of paper products is one of my favorite things. I can count on them all matching and I don’t have to track down different things at different stores.

Pinata – This is just too cute. I haven’t decided if we’ll actually fill it, or if it’ll just be a decoration. Either way, it’s a must-have.

Cardboard ice cream truck decor/favors – These little favor boxes can also be used as an activity. Giving children the chance to put them together will work some of those problem solving and fine motor skills. Then they can take them home at the end of the party.

Pretend play stand – It’s not an ice cream party without a little ice cream stand! This one is actually meant to be a bakery, but the sign is so small that it would be easy to cover so you can use it for any theme throughout the year. It also comes with a cute little cart. This is a great investment that will make dramatic play fun (and organized) all year.

Ice cream chalk set – A summer party definitely means spending time outside, and sidewalk chalk is a natural choice. This set from Melissa and Doug is really well made and I know that the children won’t be able to resist. I can see them using these for dramatic play as much as they’ll actually draw with them.

Keychain craft set – Here’s another easy little craft that can be a wonderful memory all year long. Children can put these on their backpacks and celebrate summer even when the weather turns cold.

Add a little ice cream bar where children can make their own sundaes and you’ve got a great party! I’m looking forward to this one as much as my girl is.