The first week of school sets the tone for the entire year. It’s the time when students are learning routines, building classroom community, and (let’s be honest) battling first-day jitters. A warm, engaging icebreaker can ease students into the classroom environment, and what better way to do that than with a well-chosen picture book? These 6 icebreaker activities are exactly what you need to get your year started on the right foot.
Picture books are the perfect companion for back-to-school icebreakers: they’re engaging, often humorous, and packed with themes of friendship, identity, and new beginnings. Below are some favorite picture book recommendations paired with meaningful icebreaker activities to help you build connection and classroom culture from day one.
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Book #1 “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg
What is First Day Jitters About? Sarah Jane Hartwell is so nervous about her first day at a new school that she doesn’t want to get out of bed. With plenty of encouragement, she finally gets dressed and heads to school, only for a clever twist at the end to reveal that she’s the teacher, not a student!
Activity: “Jitters Jar” + Class Discussion
After reading, discuss common first-day feelings and emphasize that it’s normal to feel nervous. Pass out slips of paper and have each student write or draw one thing they were nervous about. Collect them in a class “Jitters Jar.” Then read some aloud anonymously to show how many feelings are shared.
Bonus: Keep the jar and revisit it at the end of the week or month to reflect on how far everyone has come.
Book #2 “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
This beautifully written story highlights the courage it takes to share your story when you feel different. It celebrates diversity, connection, and the bravery in showing up as yourself.
Activity: “My Story Begins” Mini Booklet
Give each student a folded booklet with prompts like:
- “Something special about me…”
- “My favorite food is…”
- “One thing I love to do…”
After sharing their booklets with a partner or small group, post them on a bulletin board titled “The Day We Began.”
Book #3 “All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold
This uplifting book celebrates inclusivity and the idea that every student belongs. Its poetic refrain, “All are welcome here,” helps create a positive classroom mantra.
Activity: “We All Belong” Puzzle Poster
Give each student a blank puzzle piece (pre-cut or printed on cardstock). Have them decorate it with drawings or words that represent who they are. When assembled, the class puzzle visually shows how everyone fits together to form your classroom community.
Book #4 “Our Class is a Family” by Shannon Olsen
This heartfelt book helps students understand that their classroom can be a safe, loving space like a second family. It focuses on kindness, support, and respect.
Activity: “Class Family Tree”
Create a tree trunk and branches on a bulletin board. Give each student a “leaf” to write their name and decorate with symbols that represent themselves. Add all the leaves to create a Class Family Tree. This can be a centerpiece for your room all year long.
Book #5 “You’re Finally Here!” by Mélanie Watt
This hilarious book breaks the fourth wall as an eager bunny impatiently waits for the reader (your students!) to finally show up. It’s full of humor, surprise, and great for starting a conversation about expectations.
Activity: “I’ve Been Waiting for…” Drawing Prompt
Have students create their own version of the book’s theme with the prompt: “You’re finally here! I’ve been waiting to…” Let them draw or write about what they were excited about this school year, making friends, learning something new, or even lunch! Display their work with a “We’re Finally Here!” bulletin board.
Book #6 “Elmer” by David McKee
Elmer the elephant is different from the others. He’s brightly colored and full of personality. He tries to blend in but soon realizes that his uniqueness is what makes him special.
Activity: “All About My Colors” Collage
Print a simple elephant template for each student. Provide magazines, colored paper, or crayons and markers, and have them decorate their Elmer in a way that represents their personality, culture, or interests. Talk about how being different makes our class more beautiful.
Incorporating picture books as icebreakers helps students ease into a new school year with comfort, laughter, and reflection. These activities not only allow you to get to know your students but also help them get to know each other. If you’re still looking for more back to school read alouds make sure to check out this blog post.
Tip: Don’t try to do them all the first day! Spread them throughout the first week to keep the welcoming vibes going.
Do you have a favorite picture book icebreaker? Share it in the comments or tag me on social media. I’d love to hear what you use to kick off a strong school year!
