The Animal Game is a simple game that can help children get to know each other. This game is easier to complete with smaller groups instead of a large class. To begin, have each member of the group select an animal such as a lion, an elephant or a duck. Then select one child to make the noise of the animal she chose. The next child should make the first animal sound and then make the sound of the animal he chose. Continue playing until each child has had a chance to make the sounds of all the animals.
Classroom Quilt is a game that children use to tell interesting stories about their lives while contributing to a large group quilt. The quilt will be constructed out of paper and can be hung on a classroom wall. Provide white and colored paper to each student. Have students use the art supplies to draw important events in their lives, such as a birthday or sports event. Once everyone is done, have each child stand up and tell the story behind the picture. Then each child should hang her section of the "quilt" on the wall for everyone to see.
The Big Welcome Book activity can be used to help introduce new children into an existing class. Early in the year, have students draw pictures to represent what they like about school. Examples include story time, snacks, or playtime. Put these pictures together in a large display book. When a new child arrives in class, you can have children explain the book to the new child to help him learn more about the new school and the children in the new class. After a week, have that new child create his own page to add to the Big Welcome Book.
Keep the Balloon Up is a simple name game that can help children get to know each other. This game can be played outdoors or in a room with enough space. Have children stand in a large circle. Toss a balloon into the air, and call out a child's name. That child must run into the circle and hit the balloon back into the air before it hits the ground. As she hits the balloon back up, she must call out the name of another child who has to run into the center and hit the balloon. Continue doing so until all the children have had a turn. The teacher can assist by calling out names randomly to ensure everyone has a turn.