Name Tent Activity For the First Day of School + Free Template

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Making a name tent on the first day of school is a simple foldable activity to build classroom community while learning about one another.

This back-to-school activity is great as your kids walk into the classroom for the first time.

It helps keep the class engaged while greeting parents or new classmates on the first day of school.

If you are looking for the first day of school activities for your classroom, add these desk name tents to your lesson plans.

Name Tent Directions 

A name tent is a paper folded in half. On the front side, the kids write their names in the middle, and on each corner, they write something about themselves. 

Name Tent Ideas for the Classroom

But a name tent can go a lot further by using it as a communication tool on those first days of school. It's a perfect way to build classroom community by writing to each other.

First, make three columns. Then, label each column for the day of the week, student reflection, and teacher reply.

Next, make five rows and label them with each day of the week.  

The left side is a space where your kids write a reaction to their day for a week. On the column labeled teacher reply is the area for your to write a welcoming message. 

To start this activity, tell your kids you will be the only person reading it and will only share it with their permission. 

Direct the kids to share with you anything they like. Here are some ideas on what they can share. 

  1. How did you feel about today? 
  2. What was your reaction as you came into the classroom? 
  3. What do you want me to know about you? 
  4. What did you learn about your teacher or classmates today?
  5. What did you learn? 
  6. What was your favorite activity? 
  7. What do you wish we could have more time to do? 
  8. What do you want to accomplish this year? 
  9. What activities would you have wanted to do differently? 
  10. How do you feel about this school year? 
  11. What do you look forward to this school year? 

This twist on name tents for the classroom can provide you with tons of insights into getting to know your new class and the success of each activity planned for the first week of school. 

Name Tent Template Freebie for the Classroom

There are two ways you can do name tents in the classroom. One way is to download this free name plate template and make copies for your class.

The second way is to pass out paper and have your kids fill it in.

No matter which option you choose, let your kids have fun by decorating their name tents and making them as unique as them.

Cheers to a beautiful first day of school!

6 thoughts on “Name Tent Activity For the First Day of School + Free Template”

  1. Pingback: 5 Fun First Week Of School Activities Worth Planning For - Longwing Learning

  2. Pingback: Back To School Ideas For 4th Grade Teachers To Kickstart The Year Strong - Longwing Learning

  3. Vanessa,

    How do I receive the Name Tent Activity For the First Day of School + Free Template? I have signed up for email but haven’t received anything. Is there a download attached to the photograph or title within this page?

    Please assist.

    Thanks,
    Christi

  4. Pingback: Printables for Newcomers | Kris Does English

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Vanessa I Longwing Learning

Vanessa I Longwing Learning

Vanessa is a current upper elementary teacher and curriculum designer. When she isn't running after her toddler, she's thinking of new ways to help upper elementary students better understand and love the writing process.
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