The Happy Learning Den

Throughout the summer, I have been researching and listing great first week of school activities.  I hope this post can help you to build a sense of community that will last throughout the year.

1. Name Chain
No prep.  No supplies. The first student says his/ her name and one interesting fact about themselves.  The next student must then tell his or her own name, an interesting fact about themselves, and then introduce the previous student to the class.  The third student then tells his or her own name, and then introduces the previous two students.  Keep this up until the very last student.  For added fun, you can also participate... of course, you are last.

2. New Year's Resolution
I am sure that your students are familiar with New Year's Resolutions in December/ January, but a new school year allows students to set new goals for the new school year.  Encourage students to be specific about what they would like to change.  Have students create posters, and then you will have a visual all year long.  Win-win!  :-)

3. Ice Breakers & Team Building Activities 
In my lesson plans, not only do I list the activities, but I also list the teaching objectives and possible reflection/ extension idea.  At my Teacher's Pay Teachers store,  I have a resource that includes 14 getting to know you activities.  Each lesson includes a learning objective, materials needed (if any), expected time frame needed, instructions, examples, and possible extension/ reflection activities.


Every teacher has a different approach to the first week of school.  However you choose to get to know your students, have a little fun!  I hope this blog helps you start the year off on the right foot.  Feel free to share any tried and true ice breaker activities that you love in the comments below.

Have a great school year,
Sandra @The Happy Learning Den










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