nursery school graduation presentation

8 Nursery and Preschool Graduation Ceremony Ideas

Whether it’s your first year as a nursery school teacher or your pre-school is venturing into the wonderful world of nursery graduation ceremonies , see our list of preschool graduation ideas and give your students a milestone to look back on in the future.

1. Choose a Fun Theme

Be creative with their big day and get everyone involved with a theme. This is helpful when choosing activities and planning the graduation programme. Will it be ‘What do you want to be when you grow up’ or ‘Futuristic’ or even based on a specific subject like ‘History’ or ‘Authors’. If your preschool has a topic close to their heart then make it personal and make sure all the students get involved and are excited.

2. Create Your Own Diploma Certificates

Make each student a diploma to take home and treasure as a memento. Adding a personalised message for each student is great and really shows the parents how much you care. It could be a new skill they’ve learnt or something they overcame in the year. Preschool children love receiving certificates and will fill them with joy and a sense of accomplishment.

3. Have a Preschool Graduation Song Sing-a-long

It can be a nursery rhyme, an Elton John classic, or (if you can handle it) Baby Shark. Having a sing-a-long or performance from your nursery students is always fun and warms the hearts of many proud parents, guardians and family, helping build the perfect occasion. The song can match your chosen theme or be straight out of a Disney favourite like Bare Necessities or Toy Stories ‘You’ve got a friend in me’.

4. Slideshow of Memories

If you have permission to gather memories throughout the year and show them on a slideshow presentation for the adults to admire and see what their little ones get up to in preschool. Another way to get parents permission is to ask them to send in snaps so you can make a memory reel of your students who graduated this year. Choose the right soundtrack and share your experiences of each child – there won’t be a dry eye in the house!

5. ‘I Want to be a ____ When I Grow Up’ Wall

Ask each of your nursery children what they want to be when they grow up and create a big wall with their drawings and answers to show the world. This is always a special memory to look back on and is fun for the children. When the children are collecting their special award you can always include it on the certificate. For example, ‘Congratulations to Charlie Foster for graduating nursery and good luck with your job as an astronaut when you grow up’.

6. Preschool Graduation Goodie Bags

What’s a celebration without a goodie bag?! As well as a diploma certificate, reward the children with a bag full of goodies to say well done for doing well in the year. These can be as simple as a colouring book, crayons and some treats. You can even tie them in with your graduation ceremony theme idea. Be as creative as you like, the kids will love it.

7. Share A Few of My Favourite Things

Let the children share a few of their favourite things! It can be their favourite colour or favourite food, give them a chance to speak in front of an audience about themselves. This will be a great way to help them develop an important life skill. If you have some shy ones in the class then you can help them read it out. Another idea is to put them on a ‘Wall of Favourite Things’ with their handprint and a photo.

8. Focus on Fun with your Nursery Graduation Ceremony!

Planning a graduation day for your nursery class should be fun and a time for celebrating the achievements of the little ones you look after. Whatever you decide to include in your graduation programme, you know the parents and guardians will be full of pride looking up at their little ones in mini graduation gowns and hats . Good luck and congratulations from us for guiding your nursery class through a successful school year.

Dominic Chandler

With a history in sales and marketing, Dominic is focussed on developing and growing the Evess brand to work with our customers, providing them with a simple journey and helping them understand exactly what they require for their event. Learning more and more about the industry throughout his time working for the company, and so following much research, Dominic is able to offer help, guidance and provide information in specific areas of the Graduation and Legal sectors.

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Graduation Speech for Nursery Pupils [With Examples]

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Table of Contents

What is a Graduation Speech?

A graduation speech is a speech given at a graduation ceremony. It is often given by a notable guest speaker or a member of the graduating class.

The purpose of a graduation speech is to inspire the graduates as they move on to the next phase of their lives.

If a member of the graduating class is the one giving the graduation speech, they may reflect on the following three things:

• accomplishments of the class,
• the challenges they have faced,
• and the lessons they have learned.

A graduation speech may also touch on the importance of education and the value of hard work. The speaker may also remind the graduates that they have the potential to make a positive impact in the world.

A graduation ceremony is not complete without a graduation speech. It is a very important part of the ceremony as it provides a sense of closure for the graduating class. More so, it sets the tone for the future.

Therefore, a graduation speech should be uplifting, inspiring and thought-provoking. And should leave the graduates with a sense of hope and a renewed sense of purpose as they embark on their next journey.

Read Also: Convocation Wishes, Messages and Prayers

Types of Graduation Speech

Depending on the needs and demands of the ceremony, there are several types of graduation speeches that can be given. They include:

• Inspirational speeches
• Commencement speeches
• Farewell speeches
• Thank you speeches
• Reflective speeches
• Humorous speeches
• Valedictorian speeches

Inspirational speeches aim to motivate the graduating class to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals.

Commencement speeches are formal speeches that are usually given by a prominent figure or guest speaker at a graduation ceremony.

Farewell speeches are typically given by a member of the graduating class who are leaving the school.

Thank you speeches aim at expressing gratitude to parents, teachers and others who have supported the graduating class throughout their academic journey.

Reflective speeches encourage graduates to reflect on their experiences and lessons learned during their time in school.

Humorous speeches aim to lighten the mood and inject some humor into the graduation ceremony.

Valedictorian speeches are given by the highest-ranking student in the graduating class. In the speech, they highlight their accomplishments and share words of wisdom with their classmates.

Read Also: Grade-1 Scheme of Work

How to Write a Graduation Speech

It’s a great honor to be chosen to give a graduation speech, but it is also be a very daunting task.

This section will guide you on how to come up with a good graduation speech that would make a lasting impression on your audience.

Here’s how to write a good graduation speech:

Start with a strong opening

Begin your speech with a captivating opening that catches your audience’s attention. You can start with a quote or a personal anecdote. Otherwise, you may use a humorous story that relates to the occasion.

Reflect on the past

Take some time to reflect on your experiences as a student in the school. Highlight some of the challenges and lessons you have learned over the years. Also acknowledge and thank the people who have helped you along the way, such as teachers, family and friends.

This is very important and would highly enrich your speech while reassuring the people that you do not take their contributions for granted.

Offer advice

You must realize that graduation is a time of transition. And at such a time, your fellow graduates are likely feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty about the future. So you need to offer some words of wisdom and encouragement to help them navigate the next phase of their lives.

You can share your own personal experiences and what has worked for you.

Keep it concise

Remember that you will be speaking in front of a large audience and you may not have their attention for too long. So it’s important to keep your speech concise and to the point. Stick to the main points and avoid repetitions or going off on tangents.

End on a high note

Just like you started your speech with a strong opening, you need to close it speech with a strong and memorable ending. Your speech should end in way that leaves the audience feeling inspired and motivated. You can end with a quote, a call to action or a personal reflection.

Remember to practice your speech several times before the graduation ceremony. This will help you feel more confident and prepared when the time comes to deliver it.

Graduation Speech for Nursery Pupils

A graduation speech for nursery pupils is a speech given by a teacher or school administrator to mark the end of the nursery school year and to congratulate the pupils on their accomplishments.

Nursery pupils are typically between the ages of 3 – 5 years old and are transitioning into primary school. So the speech aims to inspire and encourage them as they move on to the next phase of their education.

It may also highlight the progress and achievements of the pupils during their time in nursery school. More so, the speech may acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the teachers and parents who have supported the pupils all through.

Ultimately, the speech serves as a way to celebrate the pupils and their journey in nursery school and to wish them well as they continue their educational journey.

Examples of a Graduation Speech for Nursery Pupils

A graduation speech for nursery pupils should be fun, engaging and inspirational. Here are some examples:

Graduation Speech for Nursery Pupils [Example 1]

Dear Nursery Pupils,

Today is a special day, as we celebrate your graduation from nursery school. You have come a long way since the first day you stepped into this classroom and I am so proud of every one of you.

As you move on to the next phase of your education, I want to remind you of a few important things. First, always remember to have fun! Learning should be an enjoyable experience, and you should never lose your sense of curiosity and wonder.

Second, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. There will be times when you struggle with a concept or task, but that’s okay. The important thing is to keep trying and to seek guidance from your teachers, friends and family.

Finally, I want to encourage you to dream big. You are capable of achieving great things and I have no doubt that you will go on to do amazing things in your lives. Follow your passions, work hard and never give up on your goals.

So, congratulations to the nursery graduates of [Name of School]. You are all stars and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for every one of you. Thank you for making my time as your teacher so special, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Graduation Speech for Nursery Pupils [Example 2]

Today marks a very special day in your young lives. You are graduating from nursery school and taking the first step towards a bright future. I am so proud of each and every one of you and I am honored to be standing here today to celebrate your achievements.

In your time at nursery school, you have learned so much. You have learned how to count, how to write your name and how to share with others. You have made new friends, learned to work together and developed important skills that will serve you well throughout your academic journey.

As you move forward, remember to always be curious and ask questions. Don’t be afraid to try new things and always do your best. Remember that mistakes are a natural part of learning and growth. If you make a mistake, just pick yourself up and try again.

I want you to know that your teachers, parents and loved ones are all proud of you today. We can’t wait to see what you will achieve in the future. Always remember that you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. Believe in yourself and your abilities.

So, as you leave nursery school and embark on the next phase of your academic journey, I wish you all the best. Congratulations, and good luck!

A graduation speech for nursery pupils should be fun, engaging and inspirational. It should start with a strong opening, reflect on the past, offer advice and also end on a high note.

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About Henry Divine

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24 Adorable Preschool Graduation Ceremony Ideas

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Mar 11, 2022

Your little one is growing up right before your very eyes. They have completed preschool and are headed to elementary school. This is certainly a milestone for any child and deserves to be recognized. To celebrate this next step of their life, help host a preschool graduation ceremony with preschool graduation invitations . Their teacher is sure to appreciate all of your ideas and creativity.

We have gathered 24 cute and creative preschool graduation ceremony ideas to inspire you. Remember to plan your celebration in advance so that friends and family can attend this event. Make a preschool yearbook for your child and include photos of this big day that they can look back on for years to come.

1. Buckets of Fun Grad Favor

Source: Lessons For Little Ones

After finishing pre-school, the kiddos are sure to be ready for summer! Help them celebrate this big step with a summer fun bucket. Include a pail to build sand castles, cute sunglasses and some colorful glow sticks for summer nights.

2. Dr. Seuss Outdoor Party

Source: Catch My Party

Oh, the places they will go! Celebrate your little one heading to kindergarten with a fun-filled Dr. Seuss themed party. Use whimsical colors for some childlike charm.

3. Grad Cap Party Favors

Source: Shutterfly

Feed their sweet tooth with this adorable diy graduation party idea . Craft a graduation cap mason jar. Fill it with tasty treats in the colors of your child’s preschool colors or their favorite candy.

4. Sidewalk Chalk Photo

Source: Paging Fun Moms

Turn a fun activity into a precious momento. Write out what your preschool graduate wants to be when they grow up in sidewalk chalk and have them lay next to the writing. Snap a photo and create a custom framed print. In a few years, see if your preschool graduate has kept this same career goal.

5. Alphabet Inspired Food Labels

Source: Moms and Munchkins

Now that your child is an expert at the alphabet, have them help you create food labels inspired by their favorite letters. Chose kid-friendly foods such as cookies, mozzarella sticks and peanut butter sandwiches.

6. Graduation Cap Cupcakes

Source: Mom Loves Baking

These little treats deserve an A+. Flip a bite-sized brownie upside down and use melted chocolate to attach a chocolate square on top to resemble a graduation cap . Fashion a colorful tassel out of chocolates and rope candies.

7. School Supplies Cake

Give them something they can use as they take on elementary school. Fashion a tiered cake out of glue and art supplies. Add some creative touches with colorful ribbons and alphabet labels.

8. Children’s Art Photo Book

Turn your child’s art into a photo book keepsake. Have them pick out their finest finger paint creations that you will both look fondly on for years to come.

9. Candy Class Rings

Source: My Life At Playtime

There truly is a class ring for everyone. As a party favor, hand out ring-shaped lollipops for class rings. Be sure to include your child’s graduation year on the label for a personalized touch.

10. Tissue Paper Sign

Source: Sugar Bee Crafts

Get crafty with this awesome tissue paper sign. Stick some colored tissue paper onto your child’s graduation year with a pencil and some glue to add a textural effect. Be sure to use your kid’s school colors. For an extra touch, include a graduation quote or saying .

11. Mason Jar Art Kit

Personalized glassware makes for the perfect graduation party favor. Fill these mason jar mugs with some art supplies they can use through kindergarten. Make this mason jar idea unique by personalizing the mason jar with their name.

12. Dr. Seuss Cupcakes

Turn your child’s favorite cupcakes into whimsical treats. Decorate chocolate and vanilla cupcakes with bright neon buttercream. Include some Dr. Seuss labels for childlike charm.

13. Dr. Seuss Treat Bags

Source: A Little Claireification

These treats will have them begging for s’more! Take jumbo marshmallows and place on skewers. Dip them in chocolate and garnish with some crushed graham crackers for an irresistible snack.

14. S’more Pops

Source: Big Bear’s Wife

Spruce up some chocolate sandwich cookies with melted white chocolate and a fun assortment of sprinkles. For an extra special touch, organize these cookie pops in a metallic bucket filled with more candy in your child’s school colors.

15. School Colors Chocolate Covered Oreos

Source: Your Homebased Mom

Spruce up the walls of the graduation ceremony with a handmade tassel garland. This simple craft can be made with yarn, scissors and tissue paper in your child’s school colors.

16. DIY Tassel Garland

Source: Kumi Dreams

Reflect on how much the kids have grown with this adorable baby picture garland. Decorate the black and white photos with funny hats for some added entertainment. This is a great way to decorate any graduation ceremony.

17. Baby Picture Garland

Source: The Savage Flower

This create-your-own banana split bar is the perfect twist on this dessert favorite. Include a variety of toppings like sprinkles, nuts and crushed up cookies so each graduate can customize their own banana split pop.

18. Banana Split Bites

Source: Baker’s Royale

Encourage your preschool graduate to reflect on all they have learned with a last day of school survey. Let them show off how well they can spell their name and their newfound art skills.

19. Last Day of School Survey

Source: Party Like a Cherry

Help the little graduates make an adorable keepsake they can actually use. Provide some colorful permanent markers so each student has the opportunity to sign each other’s pillow cases. It will become a naptime must-have.

20. End of the Year Signed Pillowcase

Source: Simply Kinder

Here is a fun graduation party favor that will encourage them to reach for the stars. Print an encouraging Dr. Seuss quote on the goodie bag labels and fill your treat bags with globe-shaped candies. It will be a great reminder to show them that they have the whole world at their fingertips!

21. Personalized Notebook

Create a personalized notebook with photos of your little one’s favorite preschool pals. It can serve as a sketchbook and a fun momento that they can take with them to kindergarten.

22. Photo Coasters

These photo coasters will add a lovely decorative element to any graduation party table. Use photos of your child and their classmates and with their teacher who made it all possible.

23. Jump Rope

Source: Our Thrifty Ideas

Provide the kids with a fun activity as they head into summer vacation mode. Pick some colorful jump ropes and customize with an artsy label to give out as party favors.

24. Graduation Fruit Cups

Source: A Thrifty Mom

Keep them fueled up for graduation with this adorable fruit cup. All you need is some googly eyes, construction paper, string and a hint of creativity.

Commemorate your little one’s graduation from preschool by helping their teacher host a graduation ceremony or party. Invite all of the graduates and their parents and kick of the summer with a celebration. Be sure to send your child’s teacher off with a customized teacher appreciation gift  with an fun graduation quote for making an impact on their early education.

Written by Shutterfly Community | View all posts

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Preschool Graduation Ideas: Planning for the Big Day!

It’s that time of year and you need to start thinking about preschool graduation ideas ! Where do you begin??  

Whether it’s your first year teaching or you just want to mix things up a bit (sick of singing the same songs year after year?), The Preschool Professor has lots of preschool graduation ideas for you!

Let's talk about the bigger considerations and then we'll look at the details of the program and the many resources to help you plan your Graduation Ceremony!

The details of your graduation program will be easier to plan once you've decided on the bigger, "logistical" pieces.  

We need to consider and plan "The 5 W's and the H" of preschool graduation ideas and planning!

Let's Get Started!

The 5 W's And the H of Preschool Graduation Ideas!

What?!  Well, as when we plan any presentation, we need to look at:

• Who and 

1.  Why? Celebrating Milestones!

The transition from preschool to kindergarten marks a very important step in a child’s life. It is only appropriate to celebrate this moment with an event that will be as memorable as the rest of the year was.

2.  Where?  Location, Location, Location!

The first thing you will want to decide is the location where you will hold the preschool graduation ceremony.  You have many options for location for preschool graduation ideas!  Deciding on where will depend on how many people will be attending.  Many times grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors may be invited in addition to the preschooler and his or her direct family!  The location you choose will need to accommodate seating for everyone!

You may have few or many choices available.  Some might be:

• In your classroom
• In a larger room (such as the cafeteria, gymnasium or other room in your facility).
• In a local facility such as the local high school or church
• In your playground!
• Outside is a great idea if you can do it!  You can set up chairs for families and have a fun, informal but moving ceremony. 

If you choose outside, consider ahead of time the following:

Access to an electrical outlet (for a microphone, DVD player or CD player).

Back-up plan for inclement weather (where inside can you move it to if it rains?).

My personal preference is a location that is already familiar to the children.  Remember, they are still preschoolers and new places and environments are sometimes difficult to adapt to.  It creates anxiety and nervousness in many children (and adults)!

When I directed a preschool in a church, we used to have the celebration in the Sanctuary.  There was plenty of room for families to sit (in the pews) and the children were higher up in the chancel area (you know, that area where the Pastor stands during Sunday worship service).

This was the tradition for years.  We would all go upstairs for rehearsals often before the big day.

One year, we were not able to use the Sanctuary.  The carpets had some issues and were being replaced it was off limits to everyone for the week!

EEK!  Panic!  Our only other option was to hold the ceremony in the "big room" (as the children called it) just outside the classroom.

This was the Fellowship Hall of the church.  It is a room we used for an "indoor playground" in bad weather.  

After the ceremony, so many parents (who had children in our preschool program over the years) commented on how much they LOVED having graduation in this room instead of in the Sanctuary!

The children were more comfortable because it was a familiar space to them.  The parents felt it was more intimate because they weren't so far away from where they children were standing!  It became the new tradition from that year on!

Ultimately, you will need to decide the spaces available to you and once you make that decision, you can move on to the next "W" of preschool graduation ideas and planning....

3.  When?  Setting the Day and Time

This is another piece that leave us with many options to choose from.  What day do you have the program on?  During the week?  On a Saturday?  And what time of day do you hold it?  During class time?  In the evening?  This will depend on who is planning to attend.

During the Preschool Hours

Some teachers prefer to schedule a short but sweet ceremony during the last preschool day. 

The advantage is that you know that most of your students will be there as arrangements are already made for their children to be at school at that time.  But, in my opinion, this is the BOLD ONLY benefit.  

Their are many disadvantages to this (and the reason why we hold an evening graduation):

Parents may not be able to get time off from their jobs during the day or

Only one parent will be able to get time off and attend

Other family members (Grandparents especially!) LOVE to attend these celebrations of milestones and may not be able to attend during the day.

During a Weekend

Many preschools hold their celebrations on a Saturday or Sunday.  They are planned (the date) in advance so that families are aware at the beginning of the year.

This can work out very well.  However, you will need to consider the time of year.  May and June are a very busy time for many other graduations as well such as High School and College Graduations.  In addition, many schools have field days or other gatherings for their students and schools at this time of year.

Many of your preschoolers will have siblings, cousins or other family members who have these events going on.  So, weekends can be tricky in May and June.

Evening Celebration

Many preschools plan their celebration for an evening.  This has been the option that has worked best for us over the years.

The considerations for an evening celebration is the timing.  It is usually best if held after dinner time and being certain it ends before preschool bedtime!

This has been the option that worked best for us through the years.  We held the celebration from 6:00-7:30. One hour for the program and 1/2 hour for hanging out together and enjoying some snackage!

Once you have the location, the day and the time decided (and honestly, I recommend that you decide on this at the beginning of each school year!), you are ready to move on to the next "W" of preschool graduation ideas and planning.......

4.  What?  Informing and Communicating the Program with Families

You may have just recently chosen the day, time and place.  You may have chosen it at the beginning of the year and sent it out on your annual event calendar.

Regardless, it is time to begin the stream of communication about the details of your program!

What is the best way to do this?  ANY and EVERY way you can!  Do not solely rely on the newsletter---you know, the one that is sometimes found in the bottom of the backpack or in their cubbies or mailboxes weeks after it was distributed?  ;)

As with any communications, each parent has their own way of receiving information so utilize them all:

• Highlight it front page and center in your newsletter
• Post a colorful notice (use balloons if you want to!) on the door parents use to come in and out of the program.
• Send emails to all parents
• Post it on your Facebook Page
• Tweet about it!
• Postal Mail  This is the most important:  Use snail mail!  What?  You know, the good old-fashioned "Mail an Invitation!"!  

Address it to the family and list the return address as the preschool with the child's name as well:

Billy Preschooler

ABC Preschool

123 Main St.

Anytown, Your country 12345

Trust me, families WILL see and open this letter!

There are sooo many choices and ways to create invitations!  I have listed them on the Preschool Graduation Resource page (coming soon!)!

So now you know where you will hold the celebration, the day and time and have sent out invitations.  But HOW will you pull it all together?  Glad you asked!  Let's move on to the next "W" of preschool graduation ideas and planning.. ...

5.  Who?  Many Hands make Light Work!

This proverb is very true!  The more help you have, the more successful and fun your celebration will be! Assign tasks from your graduation ideas list or program to families!  Don't become a one engine train (or control freak!  ;)  ) about this!  

This is a celebration...for everyone involved:  The children, the families and the teachers and staff!  Let's plan together!

Decide on tasks you can assign to others such as:

• Snacks:   A sign-up process for snacks for the graduation day (ask a parent to call parents to sign people up for snacks, plates, cups, napkins, tablecloths, etc.)
• Decorations:  Will your director order them?  Do you have some from previous years?  Also, have the children create some artwork to hang on the walls!
• Props:  Are your children singing songs or acting out a short play?  Ask families to create or gather the props you will need either for the scenery, costumes or to go along with the songs.
• Set-up:  Do you need folding chairs or tables?  Ask parents to loan them to you!
• Clean-up:  Can a family member or two stay a little later to help clean up after the program?  For that matter, can any come early to set up??!

Share the excitement, including sharing the tasks!  There are so many details you can delegate.  There are so many details that can overwhelm you.....bringing us to our final consideration....the "H" in preschool graduation planning ideas...

6.  How?  Keeping It Real without Really Losing Your Mind!

First let me direct you back to the first section of this page:  The "Why".

Don't forget WHY you are doing this!  It is to celebrate!  To enjoy the growth and development of your preschoolers--their skills AND their friendships throughout the year!  And, for many of the students, it is a time to say goodbye...the most bittersweet of the "Why".

Let's remember what your graduation program is NOT for:

• It is NOT to impress parents or families with our amazing recreations of Pinterest ideas (though--go for it if you enjoy it!).
• It is NOT to have the children "pull off" a "perfect" program!
• It is NOT to (sorry......but it should be said!) "show off" our mad skills on how well we got children to "memorize, repeat and behavie" for 45 minutes to an hour!

Relax!  Enjoy this time with the students who have stolen your heart for the past year or more!  Enjoy this time with the families who have entrusted their children to you for the past year or more!

Enjoy planning a program that reflects your children's interests and abilities; your program's mission and that allows you all to celebrate this milestone together!

With that said.....it's time to brainstorm more preschool graduation ideas for your Graduation Celebration!

Planning The Program Details:   Preschool Graduation Ideas and Resources

Here are some pages for you to check out.  I hope you find them helpful!  If you have additional preschool graduation ideas to add to any of these pages, please share them!  You will find a submission form at the bottom of each of the pages in which you can share your ideas!  The more we share, the better prepared we are!

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How to Create the Perfect Preschool Graduation Program

• Andrea Coventry
• Categories : Preschool teaching strategies, advice & tips
• Tags : Early education information for teachers, parents & caregivers

Graduation Programs for Preschoolers

When trying to determine the format of your preschool graduation program, several aspects must be taken into consideration. Where will the ceremony take place? Are you leading the program, or do you have a music teacher or other adult running it? What kind of theme would you like to follow? Will there be dancing and singing? Would you like to include a slide show? How will the children dress? Will you pass out diplomas or certificates? Will refreshments be served? Each of these decisions puts a special mark on your program. With thought and early preparation, the program can be a success. [caption id=“attachment_130496” align=“aligncenter” width=“426”]

Where is your preschool graduation program going to take place? Is there adequate space in the classroom or do you need a multipurpose area or gym? Can you go off-campus? The size and location of the venue can determine what kinds of songs and/or dances your children will perform, and how refreshments will be served. When choosing an on-campus location, find out when you will be able to practice and if you need to share the space with other classes. Then reserve a time slot for your program, allowing for arrivals and stragglers after the show. If going off-campus, how will the children get there for practices? Will parents take children directly to that venue or will you transport them? Find out what kinds of permissions you need to receive and how your school’s insurance covers off-campus excursions. Also when planning where to go and when to practice, make sure your program leader is able to join you at those times.

Choosing a Theme

Ideally, the preschool graduation theme should be reflective of what the children have studied throughout the year. For decorations, the children can share some of their best works and projects to hang on the walls or to display on the refreshments tables. Songs and dances can reflect favorite topics or the core themes of the year. Children’s dress for the program can also reflect the topic. An example of a topic would be “Frogs” and an example of a core theme could be “Multiculturalism/Around the World.”

Include a Slideshow

Parents love to see pictures of their children in action. Create a slide show that shows the children throughout the year. Show them doing different activities. Include them posing with their friends. Take one close-up shot of each child’s face. If the children have been with you for more than one year, include pictures of them at a younger age to show how much they have grown over the years. Present photos in an old-fashioned matter by having them made into slides, then use a slide projector. Or, use programs on and offline, such as Slide.com or PowerPoint to create the slide show. Add accompanying music for guaranteed tears. Find some suggestions for music here .

Children’s Dress

This is a chance for children to wear their best clothes. Offer suggestions to parents about appropriate dress. If dancing is a part of the program, emphasize the need for comfortable shoes and clothing and explain why. Long skirts, suit jackets, and pants can tangle feet and arms during dances. Some people like to have children create sashes for part of their costume. These sashes can represent the theme of the program, and should be made by the children with limited help from parents. Be clear on your expectations and provide pictures, if possible. Will children wear graduation caps? If so, dancing will not be a good idea, as the caps easily fall off of heads. Make simple caps by cutting a square from poster board for the children to decorate. Tape it to a three-inch wide headband that sits snugly on the child’s head. Include a simple yarn tassel.

Order of Events

Think about an order of events for the preschool graduation program. How will the children come in? Will they simply walk onto the stage or enter with a song as a processional? How will they stand? Keep taller children behind shorter children to not block faces from loving parents. If more than one class is participating, decide if they will be divided further by class or if they will behave better mixed up. Think of the songs you are going to sing. The more active songs are better near the beginning. A dance works well soon following. Then, the songs should gradually get slower, to calm the children back down for the presentation of certificates and slide show. End on an emotional note. If presenting certificates or graduation medals , do so at the end of the program. The longer the children have to stand holding them, the more likely they are to become crumpled. Keep any adult speakers to a minimum. Have a teacher, or the administrator/principal give a short opening welcome, then a short summation at the end. Children are excited to perform and parents are excited to watch the performance. Set a time limit of about 20-30 minutes for all songs and presentations, to maintain the children’s attention.

Graduation Program

Create a simple event program to hand out prior to the performance. The cover should include the name of the performance and include a picture that reflects the theme. Inside, include any notes and acknowledgments from teachers and administration on the left side. To the right, list the order of events. Credit all composers and authors. On the back, list all names of the “graduates” in alphabetical order. If combining more than one class in the program, decide if you want them listed all together, or divided by class. Use fun paper found either at an office supply store or online. Include icons from clip art programs. Plain paper is boring, but it doesn’t have to be overly fancy.

Refreshments

Refreshments are often served following a graduation. Keep them simple and less messy by serving only finger foods. For beverages, use mini water bottles or juice boxes. Not only are these less messy, but also more sanitary, as children cannot dump punch back into the punchbowl when they decide they don’t like it. Cut down on cost by having parents donate the food, drinks, and paper goods. Decide if everything should be store-bought, or if people can make things from home. This is influenced by school and venue policies, so check with administration. Another option would be to have families meet up at a favorite ice cream parlor or other child-friendly venue following the ceremony. However, people are more likely to chat and congregate when they don’t have to leave right away.

Simplicity is Key

The key to a successful preschool graduation program is to keep it simple. Parents are there to see their children and will love a more honest effort. Those little mishaps that make teachers cringe often go unnoticed by observers, and often make the show even more endearing. Image by  jason sackey  from  Pixabay

• How to Host a Memorable Preschool Graduation
• brightwheel

Preschool graduation is an essential milestone in a child's life. Graduating from preschool means a child is one step closer to starting kindergarten, which is a significant accomplishment. It's also a time for families to celebrate how far their child has come.

Preschool graduations give children a chance to show off the skills they have learned in the past year. Families get the opportunity to experience first-hand what their child has achieved throughout their time at preschool. 

Preschool graduation is a special day and there are a lot of things to consider when planning this event. This guide offers a few ideas to help make the day memorable.

Celebrating milestones: Preschool graduation

Preschool graduation marks a pivotal milestone in a child's educational journey, celebrating their growth and the foundational skills they've acquired. This event not only signifies an important transition but also sets the stage for the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.

Preschool graduations are significant events that:

Celebrate children’s developmental milestones : A preschool graduation ceremony is a celebration, as it signifies children's ability to learn, grow, and take on more responsibility. It also shows that children are meeting developmental milestones, an essential step in children's lives that is worth celebrating.

Honor children and families for their time at your center : Preschool graduations are a chance to celebrate the children, families, and teachers who have worked together to make children’s learning and time at your center successful. 

• Acknowledge teacher and family partnerships : Preschool graduations are also times to acknowledge the strong home-to-school connection that teachers and families have achieved. It is also an opportunity for families to consider how they can continue supporting their child's educational goals after they move on from preschool.

With brightwheel, you can strengthen relationships between staff and families with things like real-time messaging and daily reports . The app makes it easy for families to get in touch with you, and staff can quickly send messages, SMS alerts, or engaging newsletters to families.

Components of a preschool graduation ceremony

Preschool graduation ceremonies are special occasions that recognize young learners' achievements and readiness for the next step in their educational path. Here, we explore the essential components that make up a memorable preschool graduation ceremony:

• Speeches: The preschool administrator or director generally congratulates children on their hard work and dedication to the school. They can talk about what children have learned in the past year and how it has helped them grow. They may also talk about what the future holds for them and give advice to families.
• Receiving diplomas: The presentation of a preschool diploma is usually simple, with each child receiving a certificate from the school. The school may also present children with other mementos that symbolize their success. Families also sometimes bring gifts for their children, accompanied by a photo session.

Special school traditions: Traditions vary from school to school; this can be anything from a special song or dance performance to a more formal procession. Regardless of the specifics, these traditions are fun and memorable ways to mark the occasion.

Preschool graduation ideas

To help organize your event, consider choosing a preschool graduation theme with relevant activities that showcase what children have learned in the past year. The theme sets the tone for the ceremony and can transform a simple graduation into a captivating event that children, families, and teachers will remember for years to come.

Consider involving families and children in the planning process to build community and engagement with your program. They can assist with decorating the space, choosing the music, preparing refreshments, and cleaning up after the event.

Once you settle on a particular theme, incorporate it into every aspect of the event to make it fun and memorable for children. Here are ten ideas to consider for your preschool graduation ceremony.

1. Under the sea

This is a great way to bring the beauty of the ocean and its many creatures to the event. Here are some ideas to help bring this theme to life:

• Decorate the graduation venue with blue and green streamers, balloons, and other under-the-sea-themed decorations
• Give out seashells or other under-the-sea-themed favors to the graduates 

2. Out of this world 

This theme is a great way to inspire children to reach for the stars and celebrate their stellar achievements. Some ideas for decorating this theme include:

• Hanging planet and star decorations from the ceiling
• Setting up a rocket ship as a backdrop
• Making space-themed crafts such as aliens, UFOs, and telescopes

3. Exploring the future

This theme is all about showing a future full of possibilities. Some popular activities include:

• Having the children wear costumes inspired by their favorite futuristic movie or TV show
• Playing games that reflect what life will be like in the future
• Using virtual reality to “transport” your children to a different world for their big day

4. Growing garden

Just like a blooming plant, the growing garden theme represents the growth and development of the children over the past year. It can also be a reminder of the importance of learning and growing. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for this theme: 

• Choose a location that has plenty of green space, such as a neighborhood park
• Decorate the space with flowers and plants 
• Use garden-themed props such as watering cans, baskets, and flower pots

5. Alphabet theme

An alphabet theme is a great way to incorporate learning into the festivities and will put your children’s letter knowledge on display. 

• Decorate your venue with alphabet letter balloons
• Sing songs that teach the alphabet, such as The Alphabet Song
• Create awards for each child that correspond to a letter of the alphabet. For example, the "A" award can be for being an "amazing artist", the "B" award can be for being a "brave helper", and so on
• You can also serve alphabet-themed food like alphabet soup

6. Reading books

A book-themed graduation ceremony is a great way to encourage a love for reading. Consider one book that your children have read the past year and use it as a base for your decor.

For example, children can dress up as their favorite book characters, and the ceremony can end with everyone reading aloud from their favorite book. Additionally, you can end the ceremony with a book-themed graduation song, such as The Reading Song or The More We Read Together.

7. Road trip 

A road trip-themed graduation ceremony is a great way to celebrate the end of preschool and the beginning of summer vacation. The decor can be based on popular travel destinations, and the graduate program can include activities related to road trips. Alternatively, the ceremony can have a special "road trip" down the graduation aisle, with children riding in toy cars or buses. 

8. Rainbow theme

What better way to celebrate than with a rainbow-themed graduation party? Imagine a sea of little graduates in their caps and gowns, each adorned with ribbons of different colors of the rainbow. Create this theme with plenty of colorful balloons, streamers, and tablecloths. And, of course, no graduation party is complete without a delicious cake, so be sure to include a rainbow cake in your plans!

9. Nature theme

Use animal prints, greenery, and rustic props like tree stumps and wooden signs for a nature-inspired theme. You can set up a mini zoo with stuffed animals or animal masks, or you can organize a nature walk with the children to explore the local flora and fauna. You can also have a storytelling session with animal-themed books.

10. Circus-themed ceremony 

For this theme, you can organize games, such as a ring toss, beanbag toss, or balloon darts, to keep the children entertained. You can also set up a photo booth with circus-themed props such as clown noses, mustaches, and hats so children can take photos with their friends and family. This is a great way to celebrate the children's accomplishments and send them off to kindergarten with a bang.

Sample preschool graduation program

Having an organized timeline can help you plan your graduation ceremony and activities. Even a very simple program can still create a memorable and engaging experience. Below is a sample program you can use to plan your event and adjust to suit the needs of your school's culture: 

• 8:00 am: Processional by the graduating class.  The preschool staff will begin the ceremony by leading the children's procession, with each child escorted by a family member.
• 8:05 am: Welcome speech.  Once everyone is seated, the preschool director will welcome children and guests. 
• 8:10 am: Performance.  Usually the preschool class will be prepared to sing a short song or perform a simple dance.
• 8:15 am: Presentation of diplomas.  After the performance, it’s time for children to receive their diplomas, presented by the preschool staff. Families can also come up on stage for a photo session.
• 8:45 am: Final speech.  To wrap things up, the preschool director will thank families for their support throughout the year and end on an inspirational note. 
• 8:50 am: Reception.  End the day with a small reception with refreshments.

Preschool graduation checklist

Here are some items to include on your preschool graduation checklist:

• Decorations 
• Graduation gowns
• Graduation caps
• Diplomas 
• Invitations 
• Refreshments
• Cameras and video cameras
• Gifts for children (optional)

Bottom line 

Graduating from preschool is a significant milestone for children and their families. It marks the end of an essential phase of their lives and the beginning of a new one.

When children graduate from preschool, they have their first taste of real achievement and are proud of what they’ve accomplished. With creativity and preparation, you can pull off a preschool graduation ceremony that both children and families will appreciate and remember forever.

Brightwheel is the complete solution for early education providers, enabling you to streamline your center’s operations and build a stand-out reputation. Brightwheel connects the most critical aspects of running your center—including sign in and out, parent communications, tuition billing, and licensing and compliance—in one easy-to-use tool, along with providing best-in-class customer support and coaching. Brightwheel is trusted by thousands of early education centers and millions of parents. Learn more at  mybrightwheel.com .

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