A book full of information taken on the first day of school can not only serve as a way for students to get to know one another, but for you to memorize names and get to know your class. Create a printout for each student that has a space for their name, picture and a few prompts such as favorite food, where they were born and how old they are. As each student comes in on the first day, take their picture and print out as soon as possible. Tape the picture to their page in the book and have them help you complete the information. Throughout the first few days, read the book aloud each day until the students get to know one another. This is also a fun project to review on the last day of school and a gift for the parents.
For many preschoolers, the first day of school is their first time in a classroom setting. Because of this, they might be unsure of the concept of a summer vacation. With a back to school-themed activity, you can familiarize the students with this idea. Have each student draw a picture, describe to the class or write about their favorite vacation or activity.
Help the students get to know you and one another better with simple games that break the ice. For example, form the children in a circle where everyone can see one another. Start by saying your name and your favorite food. Then, have the student to the left of you introduce themselves and their favorite food. Continue to go around the circle until everyone is named. Go back around the circle to repeat information and test what the children remember.
To reduce the feeling of separation anxiety many preschoolers feel on the first day and within the first week of school, try projects that help make them feel more at home in the classroom. Sometimes letting them put their own stamp on a portion of the room can make them feel more safe and wanted. For example, a name tag taped to their desk or on the back of their chair can indicate they are welcome and guide them where to sit. On the first day of school, have each student color a pre-made name tag. They can then go around the room to tell the other students why they picked a certain color or design for their name tag. Or, designate a poster board as a large piece of art in the room. Have each student add their own drawing to the piece.