First Day of Kindergarten Activities: How To Have a Successful Start
The first week of school is an important time for setting the tone and establishing a positive learning environment. As a kindergarten teacher, it’s important to plan engaging and purposeful activities that support routines and struggles and incorporate movement (because, hello! We all know kindergarteners 😉). I want to explore strategies and ideas to make the first week of school meaningful and exciting for students but, more importantly, easy and stress-free for YOU. Let’s create an environment where students will not only grow and learn but will enjoy their first day of kindergarten activities!
First Day of Kindergarten Activities
During my first week as a kindergarten teacher, I remember the nervous and excited faces of students. Some had attended a preschool, and they knew what to expect in a way. Others had never left their adult and were on the verge of tears 99.9% of the day. Having some first day of kindergarten activities that do not involve starting priority standards or curriculum is the most important tip I can give. Focus on getting the students into the kindergarten mindset and ready to learn before the learning actually begins. Here are some things you should do to set them (and you) up for success this year.
Practice and Perfect Routines
Devote time to practicing and reinforcing classroom routines and procedures during the first week. From lining up to transitioning between activities, model and guide students through each step, ensuring clarity and understanding. Provide plenty of opportunities for students to practice these routines to create independence and build confidence.
Go Slow
Remember that the first week is a time of adjustment for students. Don’t try to fit in every fun worksheet you find online or every craft you saved from Pinterest and want to send home. Instead of overwhelming them with a flurry of activities, go slow and prioritize building relationships and creating a sense of belonging. Focus on establishing a strong classroom community by engaging in icebreaker activities, sharing personal stories, and encouraging students to express their thoughts and feelings. Using books like In Our Classroom can help with building a classroom community.
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Address Struggles with Specific Routines
Observe students closely during the first week to figure out any struggles or challenges they may encounter with specific routines. Whether it’s with lining up, organizing materials, or following directions, address these issues quickly and provide additional support and guidance. Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and offer individualized assistance as needed.
Be Consistent with Words and Visuals
Consistency is key in the first week of school. Use consistent language and classroom visuals to reinforce expectations and provide a visual framework for students. Display classroom visual cues, such as daily schedules, anchor charts, and classroom rules posters, to support understanding and help students navigate daily activities independently. Recess is one of those times when I consistently review the expectations throughout the year. But every group of students is different.
Embrace Movement
Kindergarten students love movement and hands-on activities. Incorporate movement breaks, brain breaks, and interactive learning experiences throughout the day. Engage students in fine motor activities that promote dexterity and strengthen their hand muscles, such as cutting, coloring, and manipulating small objects.
The first week of school is a precious time for building a strong foundation and setting a positive tone for the rest of the year. By practicing and perfecting routines, going slow, addressing struggles, being consistent with words and visuals, and embracing movement, you can create an engaging and welcoming environment for your kindergarten students. Remember, it’s a time for building relationships, fostering independence, and nurturing a love for learning. Enjoy the journey, and make the first week of school a memorable and successful start to an incredible year of growth and discovery!
