Each year, students are put into a new classroom full of new people. Now, they may have classes with their friends, but chances are, they will be in a class with at least a few other students they don’t know very well. Since students will be spending a lot of time together throughout the school year, it is important that they get to know their classmates. Allowing students time to get to know each other helps foster a safe and welcoming classroom environment.

This activity is a quick and easy way to let students get to know each other. There are two versions of the activity, one for younger and one for older elementary students.

Make a New Friend – Early Elementary

Materials

• One ‘My Friend’s Favorite Thing’ worksheet per student
• Crayons or colored pencils

Instructions

1. Give each student a ‘My Friend’s Favorite Thing’ worksheet.
2. Put students into pairs.
3. Instruct students to take turns asking their partner: What is your favorite thing to do? Explain that while their partner is talking, they should draw a picture of their partner doing their favorite thing.