Coming back from spring break can bring spring fever, where students can see summer on the horizon and just aren’t motivated to work or stay engaged in learning. Here are three end of year activities that will keep students engaged until the very last minute.
Do a countdown
Whether it’s an ABC countdown or something smaller like a 10 day countdown, having a fun activity each day as you count down to summer is a great way to engage students each day.
Activities can be short and sweet, 10-minute activities (ex., A quick directed draw, reading with flashlights, extra recess time)
You can also observe theme days, such as Inside Out Day, Pajama Day, Beach Day, and Jeans Day. Even with theme days, you can go as elaborate or as simple as you want.
You can also do a day or two of special treats (donuts in the morning or a popsicle party in the afternoon)
Students look forward to coming to school, and you can incorporate fun learning activities into your countdown.
Create a Memory Book
Take the time to create a memory book with your students. Not only does a memory book allow your students to think back on all the fun that you have had this year, a memory book like this one also has options where they have to think back about things they have learned, favorite things they have read, etc. Simply choose and print the pages that work for you and your students.
This also gives students the opportunity to complete a writing assignment in a fun way. With options that include answering questions about their year, writing about favorite memories, field trips, and funny moments as well as writing about what they will miss, you provide many writing activities students will enjoy completing.
TIP- it’s always fun to let students share some of the memories they write down.
End of School/ Summer Themed Fun
Incorporate end of the school year/summer themed activities. I love summer themed activities aimed at reviewing learned curricula. Activities like this summer themed write the room center, make reviewing content more engaging and exciting with the summer theme.
The end of the year doesn’t have to be a total chaos-fest (even if it feels like it some days). With a few easy ideas like countdowns, memory books, and summer-themed activities, you can keep students learning and having fun at the same time. Honestly, a little bit of excitement and something to look forward to can make a huge difference. Your kids will stay way more engaged, and you’ll actually enjoy those last crazy weeks instead of just surviving them. Summer’s coming, let’s finish strong and have some fun while we’re at it!
