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Back To School Activities
Welcome your students back with activities that set a positive tone for the year ahead. This collection includes icebreakers, team-building exercises, and goal-setting projects designed to foster a supportive classroom environment. By integrating these back to school activities into your first days, you can help students feel connected and ready to learn.
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Roll and Draw Your Name or Favorite Word Alphabet Game Sheets
Holiday & Seasonal, Creative Arts, Art, Holidays, Back To School, Fine Arts, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Activities, Games, Projects
Roll and Draw Your Name or Favorite Word Alphabet Game Sheets | Typography Art Project This is a great enrichment drawing resource that is easy-to-implement and low prep teaching resource that focuses on typography artwork depicting students' names or favorite words. This resource brings a fun and engaging approach to regular classroom lessons, homeschooling activities, letter of the week activities, back-to-school projects or even in making homework assignments more interesting. Ideal for K-5th graders, this roll and draw game sheet integrates fine arts into everyday lessons. With a dice, blank paper, pencil, and coloring tools at hand, students can independently explore their drawing skills or cooperatively engage with their peers. The accompanying pattern poster is equally beneficial as it serves as a visual support during gameplay, and doubles up as standalone handout. For more creative ideas and resources, visit Doodle Thinks website. Usage and Versatility: Fosters creativity Enhances focus Supplement to other art curriculum For early finishers, mornings, and brain breaks Enhance focus on subsequent academic tasks Useful for whole group instruction to small group collaborative Useful for independent work Included in this download: A-Z Roll and Draw Game Sheets (13 pages) Black and White Printer-Friendly Version Included 1 Example and Instructions Page 1 Intro Page (For Teacher) Like this resource?Check out more autumn theme roll and draw games: Roll and Draw Autumn Fun - A Bird Design Roll and Draw Autumn Fun - A Wise Owl Roll and Draw Autumn Fun - An Adorable Acorn Roll and Draw Autumn Fun - A Pleasant Pie Roll and Draw A Spring Flower Roll and Draw A Cozy Squirrel Roll and Draw A Candy Corn Bandit Roll and Draw A Flower Box Garden Thank you for downloading Doodle Thinks resources and have fun drawing!
Author Doodle Thinks
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Tags Roll And Draw, Alphabet Game, Language Arts, Art Activity, Creative Learning, Drawing Activity, Art Supplement, Art Enrichment, Typography Art, Art Integration
Let's Get Ready For School Audio Book
Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, Preschool, Kindergarten, Grade 1, Read Alouds, Activities
It’s time to go back to school! Whether kids are going back to a regular classroom, or staying at home to learn, this audiobook is packed full of exciting stories. In “My First Day at School,” kids will meet a little girl named Amy. When Amy goes back to school, she is feeling a little nervous-- so her mother comes up with a great idea to help make Amy’s first day special. Then, find out what happens when a little yellow school bus discovers his voice, and decides to talk to the children when he drives them to school. Adorable stories will make going back to school a fun time for everyone!
Author Twin Sisters Digital Media
Tags School, First Day, Classroom, Learning, At Home
MeMe's First Day At School Audio Book
Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, Read Alouds, Activities
When Mama tells Meme it’s her first day of school, she is not sure she will like it. But after meeting Mr. Fuzzo, her furry teacher, Meme has a great day. She learns where she can skip and run, where she can yodel and sing, where she can play and explore, where she can draw and paint, where she can wash and clean, where she can crunch and munch, and then it’s time to go home! What a fun day Meme, the furry little monster, has at school. When Meme tells her Mama that she likes school, her Mama is not surprised at all. Fun sound effects and upbeat music help tell this adorable story about a little monster’s fun first day of school. Fun, repetitive text will encourage listening and early literacy skills important for young readers.
Author Twin Sisters Digital Media
Tags Storyy, Listening, Music, Sound Effects, Literacy
Math & Me Pennant – All About Me Back to School Activity (Grades K–3)
Early Math, Math, Counting, Numbers, Shapes, Back To School, Holidays, Holiday & Seasonal, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, Activities, Classroom Decor, Banners, Crafts, Projects
Math & Me Pennant – All about Me Back to School Activity (Grades K–3)... Get the school year off to a fun start with this hands-on “Math & Me” pennant activity. Each student makes their own pennant to show a little about themselves—their name, age, birthday, favorite number—and practices some early math skills at the same time. They’ll count letters, make tally marks, & draw shapes like circles, squares, triangles, hearts, and starsss. When finished, the pennants can be hung together to make a bright;) cheerful display that shows off every student and helps the class get to know each other. What’s Included: - Instruction Pages: 2 editable PowerPoint slides with clear prompts, plus 2 PDF pages ready to print and useee;) - Student Pennant Template: B&W PDF (1 page) for students to fill innn;) - Example Pennant: Colored PDF (1 page) to use as a guideee;) Skills Covered;) - Counting letters, consonants, & vowelsss:) - Drawing basic shapesss;) - Using tally marksss;) - Practicing early number senseee;) - Sharing personal information creativelyyy;) Grades: Great for 1st–3rd grade, but can also work for Kindergarten students who are ready to count and make shapes. This activity is quick to prep, hands-on, and lets kids show who they are while practicing math at the same time.
Author 1 Teaches 2 Learn
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Tags Back To School Activity, All About Me, Name Pennant Craft, Early Math Practice, Counting Letters Activity, Shapes And Tally Marks, First Week Of School Project, Classroom Display Craft, Kindergarten Math Activity
No Prep calming corner bingo game, calm down coping strategies SEL
Back To School, Holidays, Holiday & Seasonal, Life Skills, Special Resources, Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Social Skills, Classroom Management, Resources for Teachers, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, Games, Activities
Support your students’ social-emotional learning with this Calming Corner Bingo Game , designed to help children practice healthy coping strategies in a fun, interactive way. Perfect for your classroom’s calm-down area, SEL lessons, or small group activities. What’s Included In This Calming Corner Bingo Game Pack? 30 Unique Calming Corner Bingo Cards 25 Teacher Calling Card Set 1 Bingo Marker Coping Strategies Vocabulary (e.g., deep breath, count to ten, stretch, draw, drink water, positive self-talk, read quietly, sensory break) Colorful bingo boards Easy-to-read instruction page Why Teachers Love It: • Encourages self-regulation and emotional awareness • Builds a toolbox of coping skills for students • No prep—just print and play • Works great for small groups, whole class, or counseling sessions This Bingo Game is Perfect For: • SEL lessons and activities • Calm down corners and peace areas • Morning meetings or brain breaks • School counselors, behavior specialists, and classroom teachers Help students manage their emotions and build resilience while having fun with this printable Calming Corner Bingo game!
Author Perfect_Printables
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Tags Calming Corner Bingo, Calm Down Activities, SEL Coping Strategies, Mindfulness Bingo, Coping Skills Classroom Game, Emotional Regulation Bingo, Social Emotional Learning Bingo, Calm Down Corner Activities, Mindfulness Activities For PreK–3, Therapy Game Coping Strategies
Alphabet Dot to Dot - Connect the dots and color
Creative Arts, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Math, Early Math, Numbers, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Activities, Centers, Crafts, Classroom Decor, Bulletin Boards, Teacher Tools, Worksheets, Dot To Dots, Coloring Pages
Make learning the alphabet fun and interactive with this Alphabet Dot-to-Dot activity pack! Perfect for preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten learners, these worksheets allow students to connect the dots in alphabetical order to reveal fun pictures, then color them in for added creativity. This resource helps children practice letter sequence, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills in a low-stress, engaging way. Ways to Use: Letter of the week activity Literacy centers or morning work Early finisher or quiet time activity Sub plans or take-home practice Reinforcement for letter recognition and sequencing Advantages: Supports alphabet knowledge and sequencing skills Builds fine motor skills through pencil control Encourages focus and attention to detail Offers a creative coloring component for self-expression Easy to use, just print and go (PDF format only) Each worksheet focuses on the alphabet from A to Z, allowing students to connect the dots in order and enjoy the surprise of a completed image. Once finished, they can color their work, making it both educational and fun. A great addition to any early learning classroom or homeschool routine! Pdf file includes 26 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Alphabet, Alphabet Dot To Dot, Letters, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Dot To Dot, Coloring Pages, First Day Of School, Numbers
Read and Draw - Back to School Activities
ELA, Language Development, ESL, Reading, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Phonics, Months, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Activities, Centers, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Make the first weeks of school fun and meaningful with this Read and Draw, Back to School Activities pack! This resource is designed to help early readers strengthen their reading comprehension, sight word recognition, and sentence structure, all while having fun drawing! Each page includes a simple sentence using basic sight words and CVC word patterns . After reading the sentence, students are asked to illustrate what they read. It’s a great way to connect reading and creativity, especially for young learners in kindergarten and first grade. Ways to Use: Use as a morning work or early finisher activity. Add to your literacy centers or small group rotations. Great for independent work or homework during the first weeks of school. Use to assess basic reading and comprehension skills. Advantages: Reinforces phonics, sight word fluency, and sentence comprehension . Encourages students to read closely and visualize what they read. Builds confidence in early readers through success with simple texts. Low prep and print and go friendly! Adds creativity and fun to your back to school routine. This activity is both educational and enjoyable, perfect for easing students into the school year while practicing key literacy skills. Pdf file includes 10 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Reading, Read And Draw, Drawing, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Cvc, Cvc Words, Sight Words, Phonics
The Mystery of the Locked Desk - Reading Comprehension
ELA, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Months, August, September, Grade 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Activities, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Make learning about spring extra fun with this engaging reading comprehension activity! Students will read a short, kid-friendly passage about spring and then answer multiple choice questions to check their understanding. It’s perfect for keeping students thinking and practicing reading skills while enjoying a seasonal theme. Designed for grades 3-5, this resource works well for independent work, small groups, or even whole class lessons. Ways to Use: As a morning warm-up activity to get students focused For guided reading practice in small groups As part of a spring themed literacy center For extra reading practice during homework As a quick assessment to see how well students understand what they read Benefits: Makes reading comprehension more fun with a seasonal topic Encourages students to read carefully and think about details Easy to use, just print and go Helps improve reading fluency and comprehension skills Great for keeping students engaged during the spring season Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Reading, Reading Comprehension, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Back To School Reading, September Reading, August Reading, Reading Centers
Classroom Procedures Bingo, Back to School Classroom Management Game
Classroom Management, Resources for Teachers, Back To School, Holidays, Holiday & Seasonal, Kindergarten, Preschool, Games, Activities
Looking for a fun and effective way to introduce your classroom expectations at the start of the year? This Classroom Procedures Bingo is a must-have activity to help students learn and remember routines while having a blast! This no-prep printable bingo game makes teaching classroom rules and procedures interactive, engaging, and stress-free for teachers. What’s Included Classroom Rules and Procedures Bingo Game Pack? 40 Unique Bingo Cards 30 Calling cards with common classroom procedures Bright & Colorful Bingo Boards 1 Bingo Marker Easy-to-follow teacher instructions Why You’ll Love It: Makes classroom management fun from day one Reinforces key routines like lining up, raising hands, group work, and more Encourages active listening and participation Builds a respectful and structured classroom culture Saves time – just print and play! This Bingo Game Pack is Great For: Pre-K to 3rd grade First week of school Morning meetings Sub plans or fast finishers Classroom community building Make the first days of school smooth, organized, and enjoyable with this Classroom Procedures Bingo —a fun way to set the tone for a successful year ahead!
Author Perfect_Printables
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Tags Classroom Procedures Bingo, Back To School Bingo, Classroom Management Game, School Rules Bingo, Classroom Expectations Activity, First Day Of School Game, Classroom Behavior Game, Sel Bingo For Kids, Classroom Routine Bingo, Back To School Printable
Letters Cursive Tracing - Trace and Color
ELA, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Writing, Handwriting, Months, August, September, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Coloring Pages, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans, Activities, Centers
Make cursive writing fun and approachable with this Letters Cursive Tracing – Trace and Color activity pack! These easy-to-use printables are perfect for helping young learners practice their cursive handwriting one letter at a time. Each page focuses on a single letter and gives kids the chance to trace both the uppercase and lowercase forms before coloring a picture that starts with that letter. This resource is great for students just getting started with cursive or those who need a little extra practice in a relaxed, creative way. The coloring part adds fun to the routine and helps keep students engaged while reinforcing letter sounds. Ways to Use: Daily cursive practice Morning work or early finisher activity Literacy or handwriting centers Take-home practice Why Teachers Love It: Simple, no-prep print-and-go pages (PDF only) Great for building muscle memory and fine motor skills Combines handwriting with creativity Encourages a positive attitude toward writing This pack makes learning cursive less intimidating and more enjoyable, perfect for adding a little joy to handwriting time! Pdf file includes 26 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Letter A, Coloring Pages, Letters, Alphabet, Handwriting, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Alphabet Handwriting, Tracing, Cursive
Dot to dot Activity - Connect the dots - Thanksgiving Activity - Set 3
Creative Arts, Art, Fine Arts, Graphic Arts, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Months, Seasons, 100's Day, April Fools, Back To School, Birthdays, Chinese New Year, Christmas, Cinco De Mayo, Columbus Day, Easter, End Of Year, Father's Day, First Day of School, Grandparent's Day, Halloween, Hanukkah, Hispanic Heritage Month, Indigenous Peoples Day, Kwanzaa, Last Day of School, New Year's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Teacher Appreciation Day, Thanksgiving, April, August, December, February, January, July, June, March, May, November, October, September, Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter, Math, Early Math, Counting, Numbers, Shapes, Infant, Toddler, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Activities, Centers, Crafts, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Coloring Pages, Dot To Dots
Get ready for a Thanksgiving activity that’s more fun than watching Uncle Bob try to carve the turkey, it's Dot to Dot: Thanksgiving Edition! This 5 page activity will have kids connecting dots up to 60, revealing festive images as they count their way to holiday magic. Who knew counting could lead to adorable turkeys, pumpkins, and maybe even a sneaky pilgrim hat? Perfect for little learners, this activity strengthens number sequencing and fine motor skills while keeping them entertained long enough for you to hide the last slice of pumpkin pie. Each page offers a delightful surprise as the mystery images take shape, imagine the excitement when they realize they’ve just uncovered the world's happiest turkey! (Don’t tell it what happens next.) Once the dots are connected, the fun isn’t over, they can grab their crayons and turn these newly discovered masterpieces into works of art. Will the turkey be neon pink? Will the pumpkin have stripes? Creativity knows no bounds here, and that's just the way we like it. Ideal for classrooms, homeschool, or just keeping the kids busy while the grown ups argue over football, this Thanksgiving dot-to-dot activity is simple, educational, and bursting with holiday cheer. Let’s get connecting and counting! Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
Tags Thanksgiving Coloring Pages, Dot To Dot, Connect The Dots, Thanksgiving Craft, Fall Craft, Fall Math, Thanksgiving Math, Numbers, Counting
Easter Missing Middles - Numbers 1 - 20
Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, Easter, Seasons, Spring, Math, Early Math, Numbers, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, Classroom Decor, Door Decor, Bulletin Boards, Activities, Centers, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Let’s face it, getting kids to focus on number sequences can feel like trying to herd jellybeans. But with Easter Missing Middles – Numbers 1–20 , you’ll have them cracking the code in no time (egg pun 100% intended). 🐣 Each egg in this no-prep activity is divided into three pieces. The top and bottom parts have numbers, and the middle? Well, that’s where the little mathematicians come in. Their job is to figure out what number is missing in the middle and write it in. It’s like detective work, but cuter and with pastel eggs. Ways to Use It: ✔️ Morning math warm-up – Easy, festive, and effective. ✔️ Easter-themed centers – Because math should get to wear a costume too. ✔️ Number sequence review – Sneaky skill-building in disguise. ✔️ Early finisher activity – Keeps them busy without chaos. ✔️ Small group work – A great way to hatch some math discussions. Why It Works: 🥚 Builds number sequencing skills 🥚 Encourages logical thinking 🥚 Easy to prep (just print and go!) 🥚 Fun, engaging, and totally classroom-approved Who knew eggs could teach math? Now if only they could grade papers too… Pdf files includes 10 pages.
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Numbers, Numbers In Between, Easter, Easter Math, Easter Missing Number, Missing Numbers, Missing Number, Easter Activities, Middle Numbers
The Lost Lunchbox - Reading Comprehension
ELA, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans, Activities
The Lost Lunchbox is a short, engaging reading passage that tells the story of a student who can’t find their lunchbox at school. With the help of friends and a little problem solving, the lunchbox is finally found. The story is written in simple language and short sentences, making it easy for young readers in kindergarten through second grade to understand and enjoy. How You Can Use It: As a back-to-school activity to spark discussions about responsibility. During whole group reading to build fluency and comprehension. In small reading groups to support guided practice. For independent reading or take home work. As part of a unit on problem solving or friendship. Why Teachers Love It: The story is relatable and helps students connect to everyday school experiences. Includes five easy comprehension questions to check understanding. Encourages discussions about helping others and being responsible. Uses age appropriate vocabulary and sentence structure. Easy to prep, just print and use. Great for early finishers, literacy centers, or substitute plans. The Lost Lunchbox is a meaningful way to practice reading skills while teaching important life lessons in a fun and age appropriate way. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Reading, Reading Comprehension, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Back To School Reading, First Day Of School Activities, First Day Of School Reading
Short Vowel Hunt - Search and Circle ( a,e,i,o,u)
ELA, Language Development, ESL, Phonics, Spelling, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, Activities, Centers, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
The Short Vowel Hunt – Search and Circle Activity (a, e, i, o, u) is an engaging and interactive way to help students identify short vowel sounds within the context of complete sentences. In this activity, students read each sentence carefully, hunt for words that contain a short vowel sound, circle or underline them, and then count and record how many they found. It’s a great tool for strengthening phonemic awareness, reading fluency, and word recognition. This activity is perfect for Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and ESL learners who are building a strong foundation in phonics. It can be used for independent practice, in literacy centers, or for small group instruction. Ways to Use: Literacy centers or morning work Small group phonics lessons Homework or take-home practice Early finisher activity Assessment tool for vowel sound recognition Advantages: Reinforces short vowel identification in context Strengthens phonemic awareness and decoding skills Encourages careful reading and word analysis Interactive and student-friendly format Supports visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners Pdf file includes 5 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Cvc, Cvc Short, Short Sound, Cvc Activities, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Phonics, Phonics Activities, Short Vowel, Literacy
First Day of School Signs
Creative Arts, ELA, Language Development, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Months, August, September, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, Activities, Centers, Worksheets, Worksheets & Printables, Classroom Decor, Banners, Bulletin Boards, Door Decor, Posters, Teacher Tools
Capture the excitement of a new school year with this My First Day of School Signs printable pack! Perfect for teachers and parents, these signs are a fun way to celebrate the beginning of school and create lasting memories. This set includes signs for various grade levels, from preschool to elementary, each featuring a bold, kid-friendly design that looks great in photos. Whether you're a teacher preparing for classroom photo day or a parent snapping a special first-day picture, these signs are an easy way to add something meaningful to the moment. Ways to Use: Classroom welcome photos on the first day Parent keepsake photos at home Bulletin board or hallway displays Scrapbooking or memory books Sharing on school websites or newsletters Advantages: Creates lasting back-to-school memories Covers multiple grade levels for reuse Easy to print and use (PDF format only) Adds fun to first-day routines Perfect for teachers, parents, and homeschoolers Make your students feel special and mark the start of their school journey with these bright and cheerful First Day of School Signs! Pdf file includes 12 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Back To School, Back To School Signs, Classcroom Signs, Classroom Decor, Bulletin Board, Back To School Activities, First Day Of School, First Day Activities
Thankful Tree Writing Prompt - Thanksgiving Activity
Creative Arts, Art, Fine Arts, Graphic Arts, ELA, Language Development, ESL, Vocabulary, Writing, Creative Writing, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Months, Seasons, 100's Day, April Fools, Back To School, Birthdays, Chinese New Year, Christmas, Easter, End Of Year, Halloween, Indigenous Peoples Day, Hispanic Heritage Month, Thanksgiving, April, August, December, February, January, July, June, March, May, November, October, September, Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer, Infant, Toddler, Kindergarten, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Activities, Centers, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Coloring Pages, Writing Prompts
Get ready to rake up some gratitude with the Thankful Tree Writing Prompt! This Thanksgiving activity combines creativity and reflection to create a heartfelt masterpiece, and no actual leaves will clog your yard. Perfect for kids who are full of thanks (and maybe a little too much turkey), this activity invites them to write and draw about the people, things, and snacks they’re most grateful for. The fun starts with crafting their very own Thankful Tree. Each "leaf" becomes a blank canvas for kids to jot down what warms their hearts, like family, friends, and possibly an unhealthy obsession with mac and cheese. Once the writing’s done, it’s time to branch out with some drawing! Students can add colorful flair to their trees, turning their gratitude into an autumnal work of art. This activity is ideal for classrooms or as a family bonding moment that doesn’t involve fighting over the remote. By the end, kids will have a beautiful Thankful Tree they’ll be proud to display, and you’ll have a little peace and quiet, at least until dessert. Fun, festive, and packed with good vibes, this writing prompt is a must-have for spreading gratitude (and maybe sneaking in a little spelling practice). Let’s get thankful! Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
Tags Writing, Writing Prompts, Drawing, Thanksgiving Writing, Thanksgiving Writing Prompts, Fall Craft, Fall Math, Thanksgiving Craft, Thanksgiving Drawing
Back to School Blues - Reading Comprehension
Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, ELA, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Months, August, September, Grade 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans, Activities
Starting a new school year can be exciting, but it can also bring a few nerves. Back to School Blues is a reading comprehension activity made for grades 3-5 that taps into those feelings students often have during the first week. The passage follows a relatable back to school experience and helps kids think about emotions, challenges, and the positives that come with starting fresh. Ways you can use it: Read together as a class and talk through the main ideas. Independent work for reading and comprehension practice. Small group reading to build fluency and encourage discussion. Homework for extra practice at home. Morning warm up to start the day with a thoughtful activity. Why it’s useful: Students relate to the theme, so they’re more engaged in reading. Builds reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. Great conversation starter about emotions and coping with change. Works with a range of reading levels in grades 3-5. No prep needed, just print and use. It’s a simple, meaningful way to work on literacy skills while also helping students feel seen and understood as they head into a new school year. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Reading, Reading Comprehension, Back To School, Back To School Reading, Back To School Activities, First Week Of School Activities, Reading Centers
All About my Name Activity
ELA, Language Development, Writing, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, Worksheets & Printables, Activities, Centers, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Start the school year with a fun and meaningful activity your students will remember, All About My Name ! This resource is a great way to help students open up, share their stories, and learn about each other on the very first day. It’s simple, personal, and perfect for building classroom connections. How You Can Use It: Great for the first day or week of school to break the ice. Use it as a writing prompt , part of an introductory lesson , or to create a classroom display . Works well with students of all ages , from younger learners to teens. Tie it into language arts lessons on personal narratives or identity. Why Teachers Love It: Helps students feel seen and valued . Makes it easier to remember students' names and stories . Encourages respect, curiosity, and kindness in the classroom. Gets kids thinking creatively and writing about something meaningful. No prep needed, just print and go . Supports social-emotional learning by letting students share who they are. Pfg file includes 1 page. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
Rating
Tags My Name, All About My Name, Back To School, Back To School Activities, First Day Of School, First Day Of School Activities, Handwriting, Back To School Literacy
Missing Letters - Back to School Activity
ELA, Language Development, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, Activities, Centers, Classroom Decor, Bulletin Boards, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Start the school year with this fun and educational Missing Letters – Back to School Activity ! Designed for preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten students, this printable resource helps young learners strengthen their alphabet knowledge by identifying and filling in missing letters. With a playful, school-themed design, this activity makes early literacy practice both engaging and enjoyable. Each worksheet includes a sequence of letters with one or more letters missing. Students will look at the pattern and write the correct missing letter in the blank. It's a great way to review alphabet order, build confidence, and reinforce letter recognition. Ways to Use: First week of school review activity Literacy centers or independent work Morning work or early finisher task Take-home practice Quick alphabet assessment tool Advantages: Reinforces letter sequencing and recognition Encourages problem-solving and attention to detail Supports early literacy and writing development Simple and engaging for young learners No prep – just print and go (PDF format only) This activity is a perfect way to welcome students back to school while reinforcing important alphabet skills in a fun and meaningful way! Pdf file includes 6 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Back To School, Back To School Activities, Missing Letters, Alphabet, Letters, Literacy, First Week Activities, Morning Work, Alphabet Activities
Letter H Puzzles - Beginning Sound
ELA, Language Development, ESL, Phonics, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, Months, September, October, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Activities, Centers, Games, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Help your students build strong letter-sound connections with this engaging Letter H Puzzle activity! Perfect for preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten learners, this hands-on resource supports early reading development by focusing on the letter H and its beginning sound. Each puzzle includes two parts: one piece shows the uppercase and lowercase letter H, and the other features a picture and word that begins with H, such as “horse.” Children match the pieces together, reinforcing their understanding of the letter and its sound in a simple, playful way. This activity is great for independent work, centers, morning tubs, or small groups. It’s a fun and low-prep way to give your students meaningful phonics practice. Ways to Use: Letter of the week activity Literacy or phonics centers Early finisher task One-on-one or small group instruction Advantages: Supports letter recognition and beginning sounds Encourages hands-on and visual learning Builds early phonemic awareness Strengthens fine motor and matching skills No prep required – just print, cut, and use (PDF format only) A fun, effective, and easy way to explore the letter H with your early learners!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
Rating
Tags Letter H, Alphabet, Letter Puzzles, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Phonics, Beginning Sound, Beginning Sounds, Literacy Centers
My New School - first week of school Reading Comprehension
ELA, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, First Day of School, Months, August, September, Grade 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Activities, Centers, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
My New School – Back to School Reading Comprehension is a fun and relatable story for students in grades 3 to 5. It follows a student’s first days in a brand new school, touching on feelings of excitement, nervousness, and making friends. Kids can see themselves in the story, which makes it perfect for kicking off the school year and sparking discussions about change and new beginnings. Ways you can use it: As a first week of school reading activity to break the ice. In small reading groups for practicing comprehension skills. For partner reading and class discussions. As a writing prompt starter about students’ own first day experiences. Why it’s helpful: Helps students connect personally with the story. Builds reading comprehension in an engaging way. Encourages empathy and understanding among classmates. Easy to use, just print and read. It’s a great way to start the year with something meaningful that also gets your students thinking, talking, and reading together. Pdf file includes pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
Rating
Tags Reading, Reading Comprehension, Back To School Reading, Back To School, Back To School Activities, August Reading, September Reading, First Week Of School Reading
Letter O Puzzles - Beginning Sound
ELA, Language Development, ESL, Phonics, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, Months, August, September, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Worksheets & Printables, Activities, Centers, Games, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
Help your students explore the letter O in a fun and engaging way with this Letter O Puzzle activity! Designed for preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten learners, this resource helps children connect the letter “O” with its beginning sound by matching it to a picture and word that starts with the same sound, like “O is for owl.” Each puzzle has two pieces: one shows the uppercase and lowercase letter O, and the other features a picture and word. Children match the pieces, reinforcing letter recognition and sound awareness. This activity is easy to prep, just print, cut, and you’re ready to go! It works well in literacy centers, morning tubs, early finisher bins, or small group instruction. While kids enjoy the puzzle game, they’re also strengthening their early reading and fine motor skills. Ways to Use: Letter of the week activity Literacy or phonics center Morning work or quiet time Small group or one-on-one support Advantages: Builds letter and sound connection Supports phonemic awareness Encourages hands-on, visual learning Develops fine motor skills Easy to prep and use (PDF format only) A simple and playful way to help students learn the letter O! Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
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Tags Beginning Sound, Beginning Sounds, Letter O Puzzles, Alphabet, Letter Puzzles, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Phonics, Literacy Centers
Rhyming Words Practice
ELA, Language Development, ESL, Phonics, Spelling, Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, End Of Year, Months, Kindergarten, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, Activities, Centers, Teacher Tools, Assessments, Lesson Plans
These engaging Rhyming Words Worksheets are designed to help young learners recognize and match rhyming words in a fun and interactive way. In each exercise, students look at the underlined word in a sentence or list, then circle the word that rhymes with it from multiple choices. This simple, visual activity is ideal for building phonemic awareness and supporting early literacy skills. Ways to Use: As part of a phonics or reading lesson In small group literacy centers or guided reading sessions For independent practice or morning work As homework or review assignments In intervention settings to support struggling readers Advantages: Encourages phonological awareness , a key skill in early reading Promotes word recognition through auditory and visual practice Simple format allows for easy differentiation No prep, print and go resource for busy teachers Helps reinforce sound patterns and word families Suitable for kindergarten and early elementary levels Pdf includes 4 pages. Enjoy!
Author Ponder Palette Plazza
Rating
Tags Rhyming, Rhyming Words, Back To School, Back To School Activities, Vowels, Short And Long Vowels, Rhyming Words Worksheets, Literacy Worksheets
Back To School Personalized SEL Bookmarks!
Special Resources, Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Social Skills, Special Education Needs (SEN), Holiday & Seasonal, Holidays, Back To School, Months, September, Seasons, Fall, Preschool, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Activities, Worksheets & Printables, Worksheets, Coloring Pages, Writing Prompts
In this SEL product and resource, you will get to make a copy of my Google Slides Presentation that contains bookmarks. One side is a fun design that kids can color and you can write their name on it as an overlay. To change the name, you will double click on the word art and change it. You can make one bookmark for everyone in your class with their names. Students love products with their name on it! On the other side, there are prompts for students to fill out. The prompts are; name, grade, this year I'm looking forward to..., one of my goals for this year is...,my favorite thing I did over the summer, a book I read over the summer, something new I'd like to try this year is... This is editable so if you would like to change the prompts, you can! When you download this resource, it will be a PDF that you need to click on the image on the PDF. Then it will prompt you to make a copy of the presentations. Click "yes" and then you will have access to this resource. To see more SEL products and resources such as SEL coloring pages, SEL presentations, SEL worksheets and other personalized products, please feel free to visit my SEL store at: https://teachsimple.com/contributor/jennifer-moyer-taylor You may also enjoy the products below: https://teachsimple.com/product/20-personalized-mindfulness-sel-coloring-sheets-fully-editable (This is another personalized product. There are 20 mindfulness editable SEL coloring pages. You can click on the word art and change the word, phrase or name. These are great for quiet time, brain breaks, after a lesson, in a group session or in school counseling sessions.) https://teachsimple.com/product/all-about-me-tee-back-to-school-sel-coloring-pages (This is also a great back to school All About Me Tee art project. Students will answer prompts, draw, and get creative with their t-shirt. there are 2 different tee images, depending on the grades you work with.)
Author Jennifer Moyer Taylor
Tags Back To School, Get To Know You, Icebreaker, School Counseling, Social Emotional Learning, Sel, Bookmarks, Personalized, Sel Coloring Pages, Fall