How to Plan a Back-to-School Bash
We’re not sure how this happened, but happy August, friends! The summer flew by, as it always does. In our home, we’ve been prepping grandkids to go back to school and celebrating National Back to School Month the best we can to soak up this last bit of summer. And that note, we wanted to share a fun idea. One thing we think is a really special way to generate excitement around heading back to school and reuniting with friends is planning a back-to-school bash! So, since so many parents and grandparents shop with Simply Inspired, we wanted to share a few tips that maybe you can take back to your family this back-to-school season.
What is a Back-to-School Bash?
A back-to-school bash is an epic celebration of the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year. Kiddos of all ages have had a tough few years, which has caused anxiety in many little ones when it comes to heading to the classroom. Infusing fun and excitement into the idea of learning in the classroom again is a great way to ease the anxiety and show your kiddo that this is a great time to celebrate and get excited for the year ahead!
5 Steps to Plan a Back-to-School Bash
#1. The Bash Basics (Guest List, Date, Location Time, Etc.)
Now, before we go down this rabbit hole, we know some of you may be saying, “The last thing I need to do this summer is adding one more thing to my to-do list.” But, don’t worry. This plan is meant to be super simple, so you can easily plan with the minimal days of summer left and give your kiddos an event they’ll remember forever.
First, let’s talk about the basics. Maybe you want your back-to-school bash to be just neighborhood kids and families. Perhaps you want to invite your kiddos new class so they can get to know each other. Up to you! Choose whichever avenue feels best to you and your little one.
It’s during this phase that it’s a good idea to get them involved in the planning process too. They’ll have fun, and it will only spark more excitement.
Once you have the who, think about where and when you’d like to host!
#2. Choose a Summery Theme for Your Back-to-School Bash
Next up, a theme! A few themes we love for back-to-school bashes are:
Hawaiian Luau: Tropical is always a good way to go when it comes to summer-themed parties. One last “vacation” before school is in session! Complete with leis and tons of pineapple décor, of course.
Western BBQ: Think red and white checkered tablecloths, lawn games, and all the cornbread you can eat!
#3. Offer An Epic Summer-Themed Menu
One reason we say to make a theme is because then you can use it to create your menu! You can either get it catered, whip up your favorites, or make it a potluck and ask everyone to make a dish that goes with the theme.
The easiest way to do this as a last-minute summer soiree is definitely a potluck! Create a Google Sheet you can share with parents noting what you need and have every family sign up for one dish!
#4. Feature All the Fun Summer Activities
Every party needs entertainment! Bust out summer favorites, as well as some fun games to get kids ready to learn. Here are a few ideas:
Lawn Games: Cornhole, ring toss, sack races, hula hoop competitions, the list goes on!
Book Share: Have every family bring a book. Leave it on a table, and everyone takes a new book home as a favor!
The best way to make this fun for the kids? Let the kids plan it! They’ll sure have some great ideas from their epic summer adventures that they’ll want to share with their friends and classmates.
#5. HAVE FUN!
The most important part of any back-to-school bash is to have the time of your lives! Before the practices, after-school clubs, and homework start to sneak into daily routines again, enjoy the freedom of summer. But also celebrate how great of a year your kiddo has ahead of them! They’ll thank you and be oh so excited to head back to the classroom in a few short weeks.
P.S. Kiddo already back in school? That doesn’t mean you can’t party! Simply invite your little one’s class after school is in session for an official back-to-school bash. This way, you can get to know the families and make new friends for a new year!
We wish you and your loved ones the best school year yet. Happy end of summer from Simply Inspired! Sign up for our email list to get more fun tips to live simply inspired, and make the most of life every day!