Everybody likes to be appreciated, so here are some simple ideas you can use to thank parent volunteers and school helpers at the end of the year.
Sing and Sign Thanks
Teach children this song to the tune of “Happy Birthday.”
We (Make “w” and circle around.)
Say (Index fingers by lips and move out.)
Thank you (Fingertips on chin and extend out.)
To. (Touch index fingertips.)
You. (Point.)
(Repeat twice)
We say thank you
For helping (Open left palm and place right fist on it and bring up.)
We say thank you to you!
Sing and Sign Thanks
Teach children this song to the tune of “Happy Birthday.”
We (Make “w” and circle around.)
Say (Index fingers by lips and move out.)
Thank you (Fingertips on chin and extend out.)
To. (Touch index fingertips.)
You. (Point.)
(Repeat twice)
We say thank you
For helping (Open left palm and place right fist on it and bring up.)
We say thank you to you!
Elvis Thank You
Get out your microphone. (Hold a fist by your mouth.) Wiggle your hips.
(Pretend to twirl your microphone around.)
Thank you! Thank you very much!
Pictures and Letters
Integrate writing by having the children make thank you cards with various art media.
“Sweet” Thank You
Here are some clever ideas for awards you can give volunteers or school helpers. You can even cut paper the size of the wrapper and let the children make “designer” candy bars.
Kudos Bar – “Kudos to you!”
Snickers – “Nuts about you!”
100 Grand – “A million thanks for all you did!”
M & M’s – “You’re marvelous and magnificent.”
Mint – “You ‘mint’ the world to us.”
Hershey’s Kisses – and Hugs, too!
Lifesavers – “You were a lifesaver this year!”