by Amber Bowie July 22, 2025
If your kids are anything like mine, the first day of school comes with big feelings - nerves, excitement, and everything in between. That’s why I love making the morning feel a little extra special with a few simple traditions we look forward to year after year. Whether you’re sending your little ones off to kindergarten or your big kids to middle school, here are some fun, easy first day of school traditions to start this year!

Whether it’s waffles, fruit, or their favorite cereal, a fun breakfast with music playing in the kitchen sets the tone for the day. I like to use colorful plates and even add a sweet note or sticker to make it feel like a mini celebration.

Snap that classic photo with a printable sign (you can even let the kids decorate it!). Bonus points for matching backpacks or fun tees from our Back to School collection!
Write a little note or draw a silly picture to surprise your child at lunchtime. It’s a simple way to say “you’ve got this” - even when you're not right there with them.
I let my girls choose their outfit the night before (usually one of our Back to School tees!). It’s become a fun tradition they actually look forward to. We even iron it and lay it out so the morning is smooth and drama-free!
These traditions don’t have to be perfect or Pinterest-worthy. What matters most is showing your kids a little extra love as they step into a brand-new school year.
Want to see these traditions in action?
@mmofphilly my three favorite back to school traditions for the first day of school! #firstdayofschool #backtoschoolcheck #millennialmoms #genzmom #momlife #kindergartenlife #phillymom #mommyinfluencer ♬ original sound - Mackenzie Madison of Phila
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© 2026 Mackenzie Madison of Philadelphia.
Mackenzie Madison of Philadelphia, LLC
Amber Bowie
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