Mykidsmom reminded me of some things I did with my co-room parent for my son's kindergarten teacher. For Christmas we slipped notes into the take home folders for with the suggestion that if they were buying a gift to get a Staples gift card. That way the teacher got enough that she could buy something really great for the classroom. We also secretly had all the parents bring their kids to my house(which was tricky because the teacher lived 6 houses from me) and had them put handprints on the back and arms of a sweatshirt then I put Every Teacher Deserves a Pat on the Back on the front and we gave it to her for Christmas.

Room Moms are really only used in the Kindergarten but boy did we have fun!! My favorite was organizing a surprise book driveof sorts for the teacher! I asked each family (and ask the mom putting together the folders to slipa note in for me) if they could donate a book to the teacher's library. It could be one to share with the class or one the students could enjoy. OMG!!!! That year she recieved over 150 books (one mom brought in a paper sack full!) and last year she recieved around 50. The year before we were lucky the bookfair was going on at the same time so that helped!

The only really bad thing I really feel I NEED to share, please don't let someone do nachos. A mombrought in nachos and a crock pot of hot/spicy melted cheese. No one got hurt but the teacher still shakes her head in disbelief. We were wanting simple finger foods.

I miss being a room mom....OH WAIT! I have two more to got to school!! YYYEEEAAAAHHH! lol

We have our Room Parent sign up sheets at Open House and not only are there spots to sign up to be Room Parent, but there are spots to volunteer to supply treats, party supplies, and a game or craft idea. Maybe you could try sending a simple note home to your parents asking for help and ideas. I know from experience that having parents already signed up to provide things was really wonderful-I just sent reminder notes about a week before.

As for other things to do in the classroom, you might want to consult your teacher. She/he may have some thoughts on what would be helpful for the kids and for her/him.

We are a small, private, christian school and only have the lower grades (including preschool), but what we do for parties is: have two parents volunteer (room mom oversees), one sweet treat, another healthy snack, themed decorations (often just plates, cups, napkins, tableclothes), read a special story or play a game, do a craft, and let them take home a goody bag.

Room moms also organize play groups once a month and a Mom's Night Out once every couple of months just for the class. It helps everyone get to know each other and with play dates.

I signed up to be room mom this year. Our pto is new and has not taken on any role with this position.
Last year I volunteered doing laminating and various other things.
Last year I anonimously donated a book for each child in my son's classroombecause some couldn't afford books and sometimes they are the ones who need them most. This year we are in a class where most of the students are better off. I'm thinking it might be fun to have a draw two students name a month for a free book.
Anyway I need some input on things I can do during the year and what to do at parties instead of having so many sweets. We are only allowed 2 parties this year christmas and Easter.
Ideas you have done!