A new school year is like hitting the refresh button - new faces, new vibes, and tons of possibilities! It's the perfect time to create a classroom that feels welcoming and awesome for everyone.
Helping students feel comfy and connected right from the start can totally shape how the rest of the year goes. When we take time to get to know each student early on, it helps us move past any old baggage and gives every kid a fresh start.
Plus, building those positive relationships up front isn't just feel-good stuff; it sets the tone for classroom management. The stronger the connection, the fewer issues you'll have to deal with later. Win-win!
When students feel seen and heard, they participate more actively in class discussions and activities. They also feel safer taking educational risks. These activities help everyone get to know each other better.
This classic game consistently proves popular. Each student shares two true facts and one made-up fact about themselves. Other students then guess which statement is the lie. It offers a quick way to learn fun details about classmates. It also sparks curiosity and lighthearted discussion among the group. When an educator participates in this game, it sets a tone of vulnerability and participation. This gives kids the opportunity to get to know some fun facts about their teachers, too! This encourages students' own openness.
Teachers can pose fun “Would You Rather…” questions to the class. Questions can range from silly to thought-provoking and students show their choice by moving to different sides of the room. This activity gets everyone moving and chatting and helps break the ice in a silly way.
Students receive a Bingo card with various categories. These might include "has a pet" or "born in summer". Students walk around and find classmates who fit the descriptions. They write the person's name in the corresponding box. The teacher can also participate in the game.
Of course, Boom has you covered with some awesome first-day activities that go beyond the usual name games! These interactive decks make it easy to break the ice, build classroom community, and sneak in some valuable skill-building, all while keeping things fun and stress-free. Check out a few favorites to kick off the year with connection and creativity:
The first week of school is your chance to set the tone for an awesome year ahead! Fun, engaging activities help students connect with each other and with you, while simple routines create a smooth rhythm that supports learning from day one. By building a welcoming space where every student feels seen and supported, you're setting the stage for growth, confidence, and lots of learning. Cheers to a great year!
Check out more first-week activities here.