Can you guys believe how close the end of the year is? It will be here before we know it! So will the end-of-the-year party. While the kids LOVE parties, they can be a headache for teachers. HERE is my post on some tips for a simple (but fun!) classroom party. I know by now teachers can be out of money and energy. I decided to hit the Dollar Tree and round-up some great finds to help you throw fantastic classroom parties!
The Dollar Tree had a ton of options for the basic party supplies you’ll need. As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, I love to cover my tables with paper. My school had butcher paper we could use, but you could pick up some wrapping paper to use instead. I personally like this better than tablecloths because it doubles as an activity for your students decorate while you get things set up!
The Dollar Tree also had a good selection of paper plates, silverware, napkins, and cups. They had both solid colors and some themed sets. Finally, if you are low on food donations for the party, they have a wide range of snacks like fruit snacks, cookies, and chips. I found several choices for both name brand food items and off-brand.
A good party always has great decorations! Since it’s the end of the year and most of your kids’ crafts will have been sent home, you could pick up a few things to brighten the room. Right now there are a ton of summer themed decorations throughout the store – everything from bugs and flowers to sand toys. If you’re looking for something reusable, I’d go with tissue paper garlands, balloons, and crepe paper. Yes, you could probably make the tissue garland, but I know I was usually on a time-crunch at the end of the year. One dollar is worth my time. You could save these decorations and repurpose them for the next year. Crepe paper strung across the classroom always makes for an inexpensive way to make the room more festive.
Because your little friends will be wound up and excited, you’ll need some fun games to keep them occupied. Bored kids with a sugar rush can be a crazy combo! It’s also so nice to enjoy having fun with them one last time! I found and put together 11 Minute to Win It games that you can find supplies for at the Dollar Tree!
Having a fun-filled party doesn’t have to cost you a lot. Don’t forget to reach out to the parents of your kids. Sometimes they like being able to send in even the smallest of things, but the small things add up! I also had success using sites like SignUp Genius to ask for specific items and quantities to be brought in.
This store always has fun treasures to use in the classroom, things that spark lesson ideas, and even some great guided reading tools! Let me know if you find other things to use for your classroom parties!
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