Birthdays

Kids look forward to it more than Christmas. It can be celebrated simply or with all the hype and pizzazz that can be mustered, and they are just as happy. As long as there is something fun to stick a candle in that can blown out after the famous song is sung they are pleased. It's their birthday. They love it so much that the day after their birthday they add a "half" to their age and count down with plotting plans for their next birthday.

So, in the busy day of our classroom, how can we add a to this most special day?  Especially for those who will go home without any celebration at all.  Here are a few simple and quick ideas:

1. Write "Happy Birthday _____" in big bold letters on the chalkboard, whiteboard or smart board. Leave it up as long as you can.

2. Ask the principal to stop by the classroom to say Happy Birthday.

3. Leave a surprise gift in their cubby or desk. This can be as simple as a pencil, certificate or coupon.

4. Let the Birthday child be the line leader or go first for everything.

5. Have lunch with the Birthday Boy or Girl.

6. Have birthdays designate "Star of the Day" or "Star of the Week". [check out ours here]

7. Let the birthday student pick the book of the day, classroom game, or snack.

8. Write them a note or birthday card and secretly send it home in their backpack.

9. Call them the night before to say you can't wait to see them tomorrow and celebrate their special day.

10. Mark them as special with a Birthday Crown [check out ours here], sticker or button.

No matter how small the gesture you will make a big difference to their day. What are some ways you add the Happy to birthday?