In just a few weeks my daughter will be finishing her first year of preschool. How can that be?! Another parent clued me in to a tradition they do each year for their son using the beloved Dr. Seuss book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”, and it may be a tradition you want to start now. Throughout the years, secretly give your child’s teachers a special book to sign at the end of the school year. When your child graduates from high school you can present the book at their party. Now, I received this book as a high school graduation present from my parents with a heartfelt note, but I can imagine how special it would be to also include notes from all my teachers that influenced my life along the way.
This idea doesn’t have to be limited to teachers – perhaps it would be meaningful to have coaches, scout leaders or church leaders sign your child’s book, as well.
I love this idea for including a note to the teacher when you present the book (source unknown):
Dear Teacher, very grateful to you I would be,
if you would please, please do this favor for me.
I started this gift when ______ was small,
and plan to complete it by the time he is tall.
Each teacher who helps him along the way,
I hope will autograph – that is to say --
Please add a note, a picture or song,
A special memory can never be wrong.
You have helped make him the person he is
and you can take credit when they call him a whiz!
I will present it to him on commencement day
in honor of you who are so special today.
I don’t know which direction he’ll take – North, South, East or West,
but I do know he thinks his teachers are the best!
Do you have this tradition? What book do you use? Leave us a note in the comments and let us know!
