Question for Day care providers

[Two Spunky Monkeys]

I have been doing in-home childcare for nearly 3 years. As of next week, I will no longer be a child care provider. I am taking some much-needed time with my own children. I am very happy with my decision (the job was more to meet a financial need rather than because I truly enjoyed it - and I think childcare has to be something you truly enjoy).

Anyway - my kids' last day in Thursday (next week) and I was wondering if you do something special when children leave your care? I never have for others, but it was never a mass exodus before.

I have 4 kids I care for - 3 I have had for this school year only and I don't have a super close relationship with any of the children. The other child is a 2nd grade girl that I have had since I started childcare. She is also in my brownie troop and a friend of my daughter.

Ideas of something nice to do/give them?

[j924]

I usually do a scrapbook for my graduates. A few pictures, artwork, and signatures/well wishes from other friends. Depending how old they can help.

[diaperqueen]

I like the scrapbook idea.

I will no longer be providing care for school age children when school starts again in August, and I'm planning to have a picnic for all the families at a park as a sort of send-off thing. Maybe something like that would work for you?