Updated: 1-January-2026

The first day of kindergarten can be overwhelming for many children. A new environment, unfamiliar faces, and time away from home often lead to confusion and separation anxiety from parents. This emotional transition makes it essential for educators to plan welcoming activities that help children feel safe, comfortable, and excited about school.

Thoughtfully designed first-day activities can ease anxiety, encourage friendships, and set a positive tone for the entire academic year. Below are eight engaging and child-friendly activities that help kindergarten classrooms start the year on the right note.

1. Fun Introductions

Introductions are a simple yet powerful way to break the ice. To make them more engaging, ask each child to introduce themselves using an adjective that starts with the same letter as their name—such as Happy Harsh or Creative Cia.

This activity encourages children to listen attentively, remember names, and gain confidence while speaking in front of others.

2. Find a Friend Activity

Making friends can feel intimidating on the first day of school. This activity gently encourages interaction by helping children discover shared interests.

Prepare worksheets with pictures representing favourite colours, foods, games, or activities. Children mark their preferences and then look for classmates with similar choices. By the end of the activity, children naturally connect with peers who share common likes.

3. Decorate the Classroom Together

Involving children in decorating the classroom helps them feel a sense of belonging. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a section of the room to decorate using chart paper, colours, posters, and craft supplies.

This activity encourages teamwork, creativity, and ownership of the classroom space.

4. Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fun way to familiarise children with their new classroom. Create a simple list of items—such as books, crayons, or cubbies—that children need to find.

Besides being exciting, this activity helps children learn where things are kept, making them more independent and confident in their surroundings.

5. Friend Diagram Activity

This activity is inspired by Venn diagrams but presented in a playful way. Draw a large diagram on the board or wall and ask children to find common likes, habits, or interests.

When children see how much they have in common with their classmates, it encourages bonding and reduces feelings of isolation.

6. Creative Art Sessions

Art activities are comforting and enjoyable for most children, especially on the first day. You can plan simple art tasks such as:

• Creating a class promise that reflects kindness and respect
• Designing a badge that shows what they want to learn this year
• Making fun bookmarks for reading time

These activities allow children to express themselves while setting positive intentions for the year.

7. Warm Breeze Game

This is a gentle variation of the classic Simon Says. Children stand in a circle while the teacher says, “A warm breeze blows towards children who like animals,” for example. Children who relate to the statement step into the centre.

The game encourages movement, laughter, and a sense of inclusion.

8. Icebreaker Questions

Icebreaker questions are an easy way to create laughter and comfort in the classroom. Questions like “If you could be a superhero for a day, what would you do?” spark imagination and conversation.

This activity helps children open up, communicate freely, and feel relaxed in their new environment.

To Sum Up

The first day of kindergarten plays a crucial role in shaping how children feel about school. Welcoming activities that focus on comfort, connection, and fun can significantly reduce anxiety and help children settle in with confidence. At Footprints Preschool, we believe that learning begins with emotional safety and joyful experiences. By creating a warm and welcoming environment from day one, we help children develop a positive attitude toward school and learning that lasts well beyond the first year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

1. Why are welcoming activities important in kindergarten?

Welcoming activities help children feel safe, included, and comfortable in a new environment. They reduce anxiety and encourage positive social interactions from the very first day.

2. How do first-day activities help with separation anxiety?

Engaging activities distract children from fear or uncertainty and help them build trust with teachers and classmates, easing separation anxiety naturally.

3. What type of activities work best on the first day of kindergarten?

Activities that promote interaction, creativity, movement, and conversation work best. Games, art sessions, and icebreakers are especially effective.

4. Should first-day activities focus more on learning or comfort?

Comfort should come first. Once children feel emotionally secure, learning happens naturally through play and interaction.

5. How long should welcoming activities last?

Activities should be short, flexible, and spread throughout the day to maintain engagement without overwhelming children.