Chapter Two- Part Two- Welcoming Children to the Classroom Community

When a child walks into your classroom, what do they see?

You probably started working on your classroom weeks before school started. This is where your classroom community begins. You can start building relationships with children and their families by sending a postcard or letter to introduce yourself and welcome students to your classroom. We always had kindergarten testing and was able to meet each family individually as they brought their children before school for screening. Some teachers give a opening week assignment such as filling out a personal information sheet or bringing a show-and-tell item that shows a particular interest they have. This can build a sense of belonging by enabling everyone to learn something about each member of the class.

Classroom Displays
Research suggests that students use classroom displays more if they help make them or if they are present when they are made and displayed. So, the authors suggest not spending lots of money on pre-made bulletin board displays. Instead, leaving empty spaces conveys the message: "This is our classroom, and we will decide together how to decorate it." They suggest displaying photographs of the students. You can ask for pictures from home or take the student's picture on the first days of school. Don't forget to include pictures of yourself and other adults that may work with your students.

Children's Names
Writing student's names around the room gives them some ownership of the environment. You can label cubbies and desks, put their names on the class word wall, make a bulletin board introducing your students, etc. Make sure that you are able to pronounce your student's names correctly before the first day of school! Have lots of activities the first week that introduce students to each other, help students learn each other's names, and are non-threatening.

Classroom Orientation
The authors suggest planning time to introduce students to your classroom organization and routines. Modeling the use of all materials is good idea. Do not take for granted that all students know how to use basic materials. (We will discuss room arrangement and introducing materials will be discussed in the next chapter.)
Discuss the location and procedure for using the restroom. Keep in mind that children feel more secure if they know they can comfortably use the bathroom when necessary.
Discuss the location of important places in the school. Last, but not least, teach your signal for getting students' attention.

So, what are your favorite activities for welcoming your students to your classroom each year? My daughter had a teacher that made the students' pictures on the first day of school then made a collage for each student to take home. My daughter was so excited to come home and tell me about her new friends, so I have been doing this ever since. I keep the original pictures in a class book in our class library, so the kids can look at the pictures and "read" everyone's name.
Leave us a comment and tell us how you welcome your kids!
Whitney