The first day of school is important no matter what grade your child is in. Maybe they’re starting their first day ever and you’re equal parts happy and sad that your toddler will be away from you for a few hours. Maybe it’s an emotional transition from kindergarten to first grade and you just can’t believe how fast your little one is growing. Or, maybe your child is done with elementary school altogether and now you’re really starting to see their young adult transformation.

And since we all know these little moments go by way too fast, one way to preserve them is with first day of school signs. You can create your own at home or buy them. Then have your child take photos with their signs for a memory you’ll cherish for years to come.

Related: The ultimate back-to-school shopping list for busy moms

We’ve rounded up some of the cutest, sweetest and repeat-worthy photos on Instagram. We especially love that mamas are getting in on the action, too! First day of school boards are so good we’re sure we’ll see them again next year.

Ideas for first day of school boards and signs

1. Say it with an easel

2. When I grow up I want to be…

3. Smiles all around

4. Homeschooling

5. Reusable chalk board

6. Twinning

7. This one is for mamas everywhere

8. Say it with a cookie (and mom!)

Related: 25+ outfits every kid will want to rock on the first day of school

9. Handmade erasable board

10. Look to the future with, “Class of…”

11. Mama and me

12. Put your old letter board to new use

13. Poolside

14. Balloon announcement

15. #excited

16. Inspired by mom

17. Survived the first day

18. First day of school board

19. To all the ‘poor moms’ going through it

20. Wood signs

Related: 9 helpful phrases to get your kids to open up about their first day of school

21. Hand prints

22. Pencil sign

23. First day of school printable

24. Sibling edition

25. Fun T-shirts

26. Shoes and an apple

A version of this story was published on October 22, 2021. It has been updated.

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