School’s Almost Out!

How to make the most of May without losing your mind

End-of-year parenting tips to help you stay calm, connected, and maybe even have a little fun

The month of May comes with a unique blend of excitement and exhaustion. It’s the final sprint of the school year, and for many families in Palm Beach County, it’s packed with class parties, recitals, sports banquets, field trips, and the ever-growing pile of artwork and papers making their way home. And while visions of summer beach days may be dancing in your head, the reality of juggling it all can feel a bit overwhelming.Here are some sanity-saving tips to help you navigate the chaos and finish the school year strong—without losing your cool (or your car keys).

1. Calendar Clarity: Avoid the Surprise Spirit Day

May is notorious for being the “everything month.” One child has a “Wacky Hat Wednesday,” another needs snacks for a field trip, and someone’s class is hosting an ice cream social… at 10:30 a.m. Take 15 minutes to sit down with your school emails, group texts, and classroom apps and consolidate everything into one central calendar—digital or paper, whatever works. Then, add 15–30 minutes of buffer time before each major event. It’s not just about showing up—it’s about not showing up flustered. Pro Tip: Hang a big family calendar somewhere visible (fridge, mudroom, kitchen wall). Color code for each child and check it every night so you know what’s coming.

2. The Great Summer Shift: Start the Conversation Now

The end of the school year is emotional—especially for younger kids who don’t always have the words to express it. Teachers they love, classmates they may not see again, or even changing schools can cause anxiety masked as misbehavior. Gently introduce the idea of summer routines: will there be camp? Check out page 20 for Summer Camp Ideas. Will they get screen time after breakfast? Let them help create a summer wish list or daily rhythm to look forward to. Try this: Make a “Summer Bucket List” poster together. Include big things like a zoo trip and little things like a popsicle picnic in the yard.

3. Celebrate the Teachers (Because They’re Surviving May, Too!)

From tie-dye disasters to end-of-year testing and restless students, teachers are also riding the May mayhem wave. A heartfelt thank-you card, a hand-drawn picture, or even a simple email of appreciation goes a long way. If your class is organizing a group gift, consider pitching in—or offer something practical like a gift card to a local coffee shop or bookstore. Local Idea: Pick up a treat from a local favorite like Johan’s Joe, Subculture Coffee, or Aioli for a meaningful, delicious gift.

4. Capture the Memories (Before You Recycle the Backpack Papers)

There’s something sweet about the “lasts” of the school year—the last morning drop-off, the last packed lunch, the last scribbled worksheet. Take a minute to snap a photo or write a short note about what your child learned this year, what they’re proud of, and what you want to remember. Bonus Idea: Create an end-of-year interview with your child—ask about their favorite book, subject, lunch, friend, etc. Save it year over year for a keepsake you’ll both treasure.

5. Find Joy in the Simple Stuff

Between the scheduled chaos, leave space for small family rituals. A backyard dinner under string lights. A spontaneous visit to the beach. A board game after dinner. These everyday moments—when you’re not rushing, just being—help anchor kids during transitions.

Inspiration Stop: Check out one of our gorgeous local parks  for a quick reset in nature.

6. Lower the Bar, Raise the Connection

Spoiler alert: You don’t have to do everything. You can skip the elaborate Pinterest-worthy end-of-year gift and still be a great parent. What matters most is showing up—with love, patience, and a willingness to laugh when the schedule inevitably goes sideways. Kids don’t need perfection. They need you—present, supportive, and maybe a little silly.

7. Prep Now, Thank Yourself Later

The lazy days of summer may be calling, but don’t forget: August will be here fast. Use May to quietly prep for what’s ahead. Stock up on essentials when they go on sale—lunchboxes, sunscreen, bathing suits, pool toys. Sort through school supplies and donate what’s still usable to places like Resource Depot. Take advantage of early camp registration discounts or start researching fun, affordable staycation activities.

Quick Win: Create a summer folder (digital or paper) with camp schedules, registration confirmations, vacation plans, and any paperwork you’ll need to keep handy.

May is messy, magical, and full of meaning—so take a breath and soak up the final stretch before summer begins.

10 Sweet Goodbyes to the School Year
• Saying farewell to the school year can be emotional—for kids and parents. These moments  sneak up on you… keep an eye (and tissue) handy.

• That final walk to the classroom or bus stop.

• The last “Have a good day!” as they run off to join friends.

• Handing over the teacher gift with a heartfelt thank-you.

• Seeing your child’s growth in their class photo vs. now.

• One more spelling test or math packet.

• Taking down the art wall or emptying the backpack bin.

• Watching your child sign yearbooks with inside jokes you don’t understand.

• Hearing them say, “I’m really going to miss my teacher.”

• Packing the lunchbox one last time—maybe with a little note.

• Realizing just how fast it all flew by.