Kindergarten is an exciting time for families, but often there are a lot of nerves involved as parents send their littles off on their own. That’s where your amazing PTO comes in!
Turning a bittersweet moment into a fun, celebratory event is a great way to make families feel comfortable. Many PTO and PTA groups have been rolling out the red carpet (along with giant pencils and pom-poms) and hosting a “signing day” during kindergarten registration or kindergarten orientation (roundup). This is an awesome photo op for families that’ll leave them with more cheers than tears. Below, we’ve rounded up everything you’ll need to bring this fun celebration to life at your school!
1. Giant pencil
(And yes, this pencil actually writes!)
Photo credit: Allie Sylvis from West Jefferson Parent Teacher Organization in West Jefferson, Ohio
2. Student “signing day” certificate template
Customize this free printable certificate with your parent group and school’s name. Students handwrite their name to “sign on” with the school!
3. Balloon arch
Balloon arch shown designed by SweetandLovely2021, but you can purchase a kit on Amazon.
Photo credit: Stephanie Kuhlman from Cullins-Lake Pointe PTA in Rowlett, Texas
4. Marquee letter light sign
Use your school acronym, e.g., “Barnaby Elementary School” would be the letters “BES.
5. Lightbox
Display a lightbox that spells out a fun message, like "Class of 2029".
6. Custom school logo step-and-repeat event backdrop
The banner shown in the photo below is size XL (88" by 104").
Photo credit: Angela Born from Pleasant Prairie Elementary School PTA in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
7. Stand for step-and-repeat backdrop
8. Mascot and book giveaway
Give incoming Kindergarten students a greeting they'll never forget (starring your school mascot!), and a copy of the book Kindergarten, Here I Come! to take home.
Photo credit: Starkey Ranch K-8 PTO in Odessa, Florida
9. “Tissues and kisses” poem
Pair this sweet poem with a pack of pocket tissues and Hershey’s Kisses. Customize it with your group's upcoming meeting details to encourage new parents to attend!
(This printable is part of PTO Today’s free school appreciation bundle.)
10. "Start Kindergarten off on the right foot" note and left/right shoe stickers
We just love this idea from Warren A. Sherman Elementary PTO in Warwick, Rhode Island! The PTO had 2 1/2" round stickers (featuring their school logo) printed. Their welcome note instructs parents to cut the round sticker in half and stick to the insole of each sneaker to help students put their shoes on the right (er, and left!) feet. Using their Canva template below, customize this 5" x 7" note with your school logo and PTO name.
Photo credit: Warren A. Sherman Elementary PTO, Warwick, Rhode Island
11. Pom-poms
Tip! Some groups have had success requesting to borrow pom-poms from the local high school’s cheerleading team.
Photo credit: Sara Batson from Ida Elementary School PTA in Ida, Michigan
Check out how Riverdale PTA in Riverdale, New Jersey brought this fun idea to life at their school's Kindergarten Tea!
