As the first day of school approaches, students’ palms are sweating and pulses are racing. The first day of a new school year can be frightening, even for the most outgoing of students. Students have to deal with new teachers, new classmates, new classrooms, and a myriad of other things. Giving them some help and encouragement to make it through that all-important first day will do wonders for their self-esteem and help them to make the school year a success.
First, assign seats. Students may balk and complain, but on the first day, it may actually help many of them. If students are entering a new class where they may not know anyone, having an assigned seat removes a little stress. They will not have to worry about whether or not they will have someone to sit beside; no one wants to look like a social outcast. Assigning seats will also help you to get to know your students’ names faster, since they are unable to move to a different seat in the classroom everyday. You can always forget the assigned seats later or assign them different ones if those don’t work out.
Supply students with a list of clubs and organizations. Students who are involved in at least one extra-curricular activity generally do better in school. Having a place to belong and “hang-out” can make school a little easier to handle.
Do some type of get-to-know-you activity. There are many of these to choose from and the sooner you start to build community in your classroom, the better. Students that depend and know each other well will build a support network for each other. This can boost their self-esteem, allowing them to get more out of your class.
Be kind. We have all heard the old, “Don’t let them see you smile until Christmas,” but this is simply bad advice. Students need to know their teachers are concerned about them and might even like them a little. This doesn’t mean you need to be a pushover. Quite the opposite is true, it is important to establish solid rules and routines from day one, but this does not mean you cannot show a little empathy and respect for their fears and insecurities.
If students have a good first day, the teacher probably will have one as well. The first day can start the year off on a positive note leading to a great school year for everyone.