The first week of school is critical for setting the tone for the rest of the academic year in early childhood classrooms. Children aged 3–5 are experiencing new routines, social interactions, and learning environments. Well-structured lesson plans during this period help ease separation anxiety, foster social skills, and introduce classroom expectations while supporting cognitive, physical, and emotional development.
Day 1: Welcome and Orientation
Theme: Getting to Know Our Classroom
Objectives: Children will become familiar with the classroom environment, meet teachers and peers, and understand basic classroom rules.
Activities:
- Circle Time Introduction: Teachers greet each child, and children introduce themselves with a simple “My name is…” activity.
- Classroom Tour: Walk through different centers (art, reading, block area) while discussing rules in each area.
- Name Recognition: Use name tags and name puzzles to help children learn each other’s names.
- Story Time: Read a book about starting school to normalize feelings and expectations.
- Art Activity: Create a self-portrait to display on a “Welcome Wall.”
Day 2: Building Relationships
Theme: Friendships and Cooperation
Objectives: Children will begin to form friendships and practice cooperative play.
Activities:
- Circle Time Discussion: Talk about feelings, sharing, and being kind to classmates.
- Partner Activities: Pair children to complete a simple puzzle or build with blocks together.
- Music and Movement: Sing songs that involve taking turns and following directions.
- Sensory Play: Explore sand, water, or playdough in small groups to encourage social interaction.
- Reflection: Children share one new friend or activity they enjoyed.
Day 3: Routines and Classroom Expectations
Theme: Learning Our Daily Schedule
Objectives: Children will become familiar with classroom routines and expectations.
Activities:
- Circle Time: Introduce the daily schedule using visual aids like picture cards.
- Role Play: Practice lining up, cleaning up, and transitioning between centers.
- Story Time: Read a book about rules and routines at school.
- Fine Motor Activity: Practice cutting, coloring, or tracing to reinforce classroom readiness skills.
- Outdoor Play: Follow simple playground rules while encouraging turn-taking.
Day 4: Exploring Centers and Materials
Theme: Learning Through Play
Objectives: Children will explore various learning centers and materials independently or in small groups.
Activities:
- Center Rotation: Introduce art, blocks, reading, sensory, and dramatic play centers.
- Guided Play: Teachers model how to use materials and encourage cooperative interaction.
- Science Exploration: Simple observation activities like exploring leaves, rocks, or water.
- Story Time and Discussion: Share discoveries from centers and discuss what was learned.
- Closing Circle: Recap favorite activities and model packing up materials.
Day 5: Celebrating Our First Week
Theme: Community and Self-Expression
Objectives: Children will reflect on their first week, express themselves creatively, and strengthen classroom community.
Activities:
- Circle Time Sharing: Children talk about their favorite activity or new friend.
- Art Project: Create a “First Week Memory” collage with drawings or photographs.
- Music and Movement: Dance or play instruments to celebrate the week’s achievements.
- Story Time: Read a story highlighting cooperation, friendship, or school experiences.
- Goodbye Ritual: Establish a positive end-of-day routine such as a song or handshake to build comfort with transitions.
Classroom Tips for the First Week
- Use visuals and consistent routines to support understanding and predictability.
- Keep activities short and engaging to match attention spans.
- Emphasize social-emotional learning alongside academic skills.
- Provide positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
- Communicate with families about the first week’s activities and child progress.
Conclusion
The first week of school is a time of exploration, relationship-building, and routine-setting in early childhood classrooms. Thoughtfully designed lesson plans that balance play, social interaction, and structured activities help children feel safe, confident, and excited about learning. By focusing on community, routines, and engagement, teachers can lay a strong foundation for a successful school year.