Our Last Day of School Celebration Basket (Easy + Budget Friendly)
I’m a former teacher, and I still remember the exciting feeling of the last day of school before summer vacation. It’s one of those little thrills that has really held onto its luster from childhood, so I love to celebrate it with my kids.
Several years ago, I started making a simple “last day of school basket” to have waiting for the kids when they get home. It’s just a little something to reinforce that fun feeling, and hopefully give them some happy memories!
Here’s exactly what I put in ours.
The Basket Itself
I don’t buy anything fancy. Sometimes it’s a dollar store basket or beach tote, sometimes it’s a bucket we already own, and sometimes it’s literally just everything laid out on the counter.
The goal is simple, not impressive.
Treats (This Is the Part They Care About Most)
I usually include:
- Popsicles or ice cream treats (cotton candy Jonny Pops are a current fave)
- A favorite candy or snack
- Sometimes a drink they don’t normally get (mine love Poppi sodas)
This is the first thing they grab, every time.
Something for Summer Fun
I like to include one or two small things they can use right away.
Some ideas that have worked well:
- Water balloons (I once had to fill and tie hundreds of balloons for a summer camp event. Don’t punish yourself with this, and take it from me – use these reusable ones instead!)
- Sidewalk chalk
- Pool toys or goggles (I like these goggles the best for kids)
- A new beach towel
- Bubbles/bubble machine, or small outdoor games (this is a favorite)
- A new floatie or inner tube if last year’s need replacing
Nothing expensive. Just something that signals “summer mode.”
Something They Can Wear or Use
This one depends on the year, but sometimes I add:
- A new swimsuit
- Flip-flops
- Sunglasses
- A hat
These feel useful instead of clutter-y.
Optional: A Note or Tag
This part is totally optional, but I like adding a little note that says something like:
“You did it!” “Happy Last Day of School!” or “Welcome to Summer!”
It takes 30 seconds and somehow makes the whole thing feel more special.
Keep It Easy on Yourself
Some years this looks cute. Some years it looks like a pile of stuff on the kitchen table. Really just depends on my energy level and budget (both time and money) and the kids don’t care! They’re still excited either way.
If you’re looking for more ideas to kick off summer, you can also check out:
