Creative ideas for end of the year gifts for students?

What are some creative ideas for gifts to give second grade students at the end of the year? Something sentimental and meaningful. I can not afford to spend a bunch of money, and i am on somewhat of a time crunch.

Creative ideas for end of the year gifts for students?
I made autograph books that my first grade students loved. The autograph books were 4.25 x 5.5 (half the size of a 8.5 x 11 piece of paper).





1. I got a co-worker to take a class picture with my digital camera.


2. Using Microsoft Word I made a cover that said "My Autograph Book" and included a place for each child to write his/her name.


3. Using a copy machine, I printed the cover onto construction paper and cut the paper in half so that I had a printed front cover and plain back cover.


4. Then I printed the class 2 pictures per page on white cardstock, and cut the page in half.


5. To make the pages for autographs I cut pieces of notebook paper in half. Make as many pages as you think your students will need.


6. My school has a binding machine so I cut thin binder combs in half and then bound the front cover, picture, autograph pages, and back cover together. But you could also use staples as your binding method.


7. Towards the end of the school year, I set aside time, over several days, for the students to write in each other's books. It took longer for me and them to write in all the books than I thought. I wrote each them a personal note during this time as well. I also invited any other teachers (PE coach, Librarian, paraprofessional) that worked with my students to visit with us during autograph time.
Reply:My favorite end of year parties were the simple ones. Watch a movie that the kids vote on, and have each child bring something to share with the class (cookies, chips, candy, etc). It's inexpensive and fun for the kids.





I had a teacher once who rewarded good behavior by putting stars into a fishbowl that said "Nacho Average Class". When it was full, we gt nachos during class. This one may not work if there is a time crunch but is a fun idea.
Reply:Nice handmade portraits or paintings made from photos are always a good gift idea. You can find more such ideas at http://www.paintyourlife.com. They make all types of personalized and unique portraits on oil, pencil, charcoal or on canvas.


The same company also makes wonderful photo prints on canvas in various designs. Visit http://www.photo-print-on-canvas.com
Reply:Nothing will be treasured more than your encouragement.





Write each one a personal note reminding them of their strengths, encouraging them.





Tying the note to a lollypop would be well received also!