The first week of school sets the tone for the entire year. While it can be tempting to jump right into academics, taking time to build relationships, establish routines, and create a welcoming classroom environment will pay off all year long.
If you're wondering how to fill those first few days while still keeping students engaged and learning, here are some of my favorite first week of school activities for elementary students!
Teacher Favorite: Looking for more back-to-school resources? Check out my Teachers Pay Teachers store, Third Grade Waz Squad, for ready-to-use first week activities, classroom resources, and third grade favorites! 🔗Click here for the link!
1. Classroom Scavenger Hunt
A classroom scavenger hunt is the perfect way to help students become familiar with their new learning environment.
Create clues that lead students to important places around the room, such as:
- Classroom library
- Turn-in bins
- Pencil station
- Emergency supplies
- Classroom jobs board
- Flexible seating options
Students love moving around the room, and this activity encourages teamwork while teaching important classroom procedures.
Here are some of my favorite classroom organization supplies:
2. "Find Someone Who..." Ice Breaker Activity
Help students get to know one another with a "Find Someone Who..." activity. Students will walk around the classroom searching for classmates that fit into the prompts.
Some prompts include:
- Find someone who has a pet.
- Find someone who loves pizza.
- Find someone who has traveled to another state.
- Find someone who has a summer birthday.
- Find someone who likes to read.
3. All About Me Posters
Give students time to share who they are with an "All About Me" poster. Encourage them to include:
- Favorite books
- Favorite foods
- Hobbies
- Family members
- Future goals
- Fun facts
Hang the finished posters around the room to create an instant classroom display that celebrates each student.
Link to:
4. Team-Building Challenges
Students love working together! Try a few simple STEM or team-building activities:
- Build the tallest tower with cups.
- Create a paper chain using only one sheet of paper.
- Design a bridge with index cards.
- Build a structure using marshmallows and toothpicks.
Afterward, discuss what made teams successful, such as listening, sharing ideas, and encouraging one another.
Elementary STEM Favorites:
- Plastic cups- I like these best because they come in four different colors, which is great for color-coding teams!
- Marshmallows
- Toothpicks
- STEM bins
- Classroom timers
5. Establish Classroom Expectations Together
Instead of simply reading classroom rules, involve students in creating them.
Ask:
- What does respect look like?
- How can we help everyone feel safe?
- What makes a classroom a great place to learn?
Turn their responses into a classroom promise or anchor chart that everyone signs.
Check out my classroom expectations and behavior resources here! 🔗Link
6. Read Alouds for the First Week of School
Read aloud books are a must during the first week of school!
Some of my favorites include:
- First Day Jitters
- The Name Jar
- Our Class Is a Family
- The Day You Begin
- The Kissing Hand
These books open the door for meaningful conversations about friendship, belonging, and overcoming first-day nerves.
7. Classroom Procedures Practice
The first week is the perfect time to practice procedures repeatedly. Consider making it fun by turning it into a game!
Practice:
- Lining up
- Walking in the hallway
- Entering the classroom
- Turning in assignments
- Cleaning up
- Transitioning between activities
Remember: Practice now means less reteaching later!
8. Goal Setting Activity
Encourage students to think about what they want to accomplish this year.
Have them complete prompts such as:
- This year I want to learn...
- I hope to improve...
- I am excited about...
- One thing that makes me unique is...
Save these goals and revisit them throughout the school year.
9. Classroom Time Capsule
Have students write a letter to their future selves about:
- Their favorite things
- What they're nervous about
- What they hope to learn
- Their goals for the year
Seal the letters in an envelope or folder and open them during the last week of school.
🔗 Link to:
10. Ending the Week with Reflection
Wrap up the first week by having students reflect on their experience.
Ask:
- What was your favorite part of the week?
- What did you learn about your classmates?
- What are you excited about next week?
- What is something you're still wondering about?
Reflection activities help students process their feelings and give you valuable insight into how they're adjusting.
Final Thoughts
The first week of school isn't about perfection—it's about connection. By incorporating engaging activities that build relationships and establish routines, you'll create a classroom where students feel safe, valued, and excited to learn.
The best part? Many of these activities can become annual traditions that your students will remember for years to come.
Happy teaching!
— Third Grade Waz Squad
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products that I personally use, love, or believe would be beneficial in an elementary classroom.
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