During the first weeks of school, integrate an "All About Me" theme into the curriculum. Through this theme, children are able to learn about themselves and one another, setting the stage for respect and appreciation of one another and promoting self esteem. Encourage children to create pictures that illustrate their families and some of their family traditions. Perhaps have children create a family tree. Set out magazines and have kids create collages that depict some of their favorite things. Provide students with mirrors and drawing materials and encourage them to draw portraits of themselves. Sing songs that promote a sense of self awareness and pride. Invite family members to come in and ask them to make a favorite family dish and share it with the class.
Since fall begins during the first few weeks of school, a theme that investigates the fall season is ideal during the early part of the kindergarten year. Children can investigate how the environment is changing around them and apply what they learn in class to the real world. Take children on a nature walk to observe the changes in the environment. Gather items while taking a nature walks -- leaves, acorns, twigs -- and use them to create a fall-themed picture. Discuss why leaves change color and the life cycle of plants. Allow children to use magnifying glasses to examine leaves. Talk about animals and how they prepare for the winter during the fall season and also discuss how humans prepare for the winter during the fall season.
Fire prevention week falls during the month of October, so consider incorporating a fire prevention theme into your curriculum during this week. Have children create pictures of fire trucks and firefighters. Talk about ways in which fire can be prevented and how children can protect themselves in the event of a fire; stop, drop and roll, for example. Take children on a field trip to a fire house or invite a firefighter to come to class and talk to your students. Read fire-themed children's books. Make an emergency kit filled with flashlights, bandages, ointment, water and other items that may be useful in the event of a fire, and instruct children to have their parents place the kit in a place that is easily accessible if they experience a fire.
Since Halloween falls during the early part of the school year and is a fun-filled holiday for children, consider teaching about the holiday in your kindergarten class. Have children create arts and crafts projects that relate to the holiday, such as ghosts, black cats and jack-o'-lanterns. Cut open a pumpkin and allow children to explore the insides of it. Since spiders are so commonly associated with the holiday, explore the creatures with your students. Discuss the history of the holiday and the reason for dressing up. At the end of your study, invite children to come to school dressed up and throw a Halloween party.