At kindergarten registration in the spring, PTO sets up tables with refreshments and coloring activities for the children to enjoy while waiting their turn. We also give out books (chosen from our Scholastic Book Fair), stickers, candy treats, etc.
However, we have never done anything special for new students. I think it's a great idea though and will have to think more about it for next year.
does anyone present information about the school community and healthy growth and development to families with new Babies as part of their welcome wagon?
How do you get the names and addresses of families to whom you present welcome wagon packets?
I like all of your ideas. I think calling and giving out a packet is very welcoming.
Do you give the packet at registration to every student or just to the new students?
I would guess that you could get away with doing one packet for every family. And have a new student packet and a returning student packet. That way you won't give out duplicate information, magnets or whatever.
We have a welcome committee that sends a individual welcome letter to each child along with a photo of their new class. This comes from the school year book. We also contact the parents just before the church festival in July. They usually will volunteer for something when asked. (We have to do service hours). We are thinking of doing a pancake breakfast before school starts in August. We thought of offering teachers a free meal so they would come too.
