Several times a year, our kindergarten teachers display a large “Giving Tree” on the bulletin board outside of their classroom using apples or hearts. Each apple or heart is attached with removable tape and added to the tree, requesting a specific item needed in kindergarten – some small items and some large. A topiary plant or twig tree with requests tied on hearts also works well. We make it easy for parents to help by being very specific.

Parents can see the tree next to the kindergarten door — and at any time if they want to give a special gift—they can give what is most needed and appreciated. Parents remove the apple or heart to fulfill the wish. Most parents, and even grandparents, are happy to donate items to help their child’s wonderful kindergarten teacher and program. The simplest idea yet? Place sticky notes with wishes around the door at Open House. How easy is that?