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

Ready to set a positive tone in your classroom from day one? Let’s look into this fun icebreaker activity using name tents or name tags to turn those first-day-of-school jitters into smiles and laughter.

The first day of school can be nerve-wracking for teachers and students, right? 

However, having students make a name tent can break the ice and create a welcoming atmosphere in your classroom. 

It’s a simple yet effective way to get students mingling, sharing, and feeling comfortable with one another.

​A name tent is a small, folded piece of paper or cardstock that typically stands on a student’s desk or table. 

It shows a student’s name so a teacher can easily see it. 

Teachers use name tents in the classrooms as a way for students to introduce themselves and interact during group activities or discussions. 

They’re also often used in significant events like weddings so everyone can learn each other’s names and know where to sit.

 In this blog post, I’m sharing icebreaker activities you can do with name tents on the first day of school and a guide for your students to create their name tents using a free template so that you can get started right away!

So, let’s jump into these awesome icebreaker activities using name tents and have lots of fun on the first day of school!

Fun icebreaker activities using name tents for the first day of school

Name tents are a fantastic tool to kickstart the school year with fun and connection. 

When students arrive on the first day of class, they create their own name tents or name tags to display on their desks. 

This activity begins as independent work, with students answering questions about themselves, adding a personal touch to their name tents. 

The purpose of the name tent is for students to complete an engaging activity and share fun facts about themselves with their classmates in an interactive way. 

Plus, it’s a handy way for teachers to learn their students’ names quickly.

Now, let’s explore some exciting icebreaker activities you can do with name tents:

1. Speed Friending: Set a timer and have students move around the room, introducing themselves to classmates using their name tents. Encourage them to find common interests or experiences with each person they meet.
2. Memory Game: Divide students into small groups and have them play a memory game with their name tents. Students take turns flipping over two name tents and sharing something they remember about that classmate.
3. Name Tent Interviews: Pair students up and have them interview each other based on the information in their name tents. Afterward, each student shares something interesting they learned about their partner with the class.
4. Name Tent Showcase: Choose a few name tents daily to showcase on a bulletin board or wall display. Encourage students to write positive comments or compliments about the person whose name tent is on display.
5. Name Tent Reflection: During the first week of school, have students reflect on their interactions with classmates based on the information written on their name tents. They can write about something they learned or someone they connected with during the week.

These activities break the ice and foster a sense of community and belonging in the classroom. So, grab those name tents and let the fun begin!

Name tent templates to use in the classroom

Now that you know about fun icebreaker activities using name tents on the first day or during the first week of school, let’s look at the different name tent templates in the printable file.

Name Tent Template 1:

The first template is designed to help you learn more about your students’ likes and needs. On the front of the tent, students write their first name, along with one goal they have for the school year, their favorite subjects, and three words that describe them. They also have space to list four activities they enjoy doing.

Students will find extra space for additional details by flipping to the back of the tent. Here, they can share how they typically come to school, what they prefer to eat for lunch, and whether they have a computer at home.

Name Tent Template 2:

The second template focuses more on emotions. On the front, students write about an activity they’re excited to do during the school year, list two subjects they like, and describe themselves in three words. Additionally, they can express their personality by drawing four emojis. This part is my student’s favorite section to complete.

Inside both name tent templates, there’s space for students to write a note each day during the first five days of school, letting you know how they’re feeling. There’s also a space for teachers to write back. This interactive feature provides an excellent way to connect with your students and offer support during those crucial first days of school.

Step-by-step guide for making name tents in the classroom

Let’s get started on putting together the name tents! In this section, we’ll go through each step, from printing and folding the templates.

Step 1: Printing Material Recommendations

• Card stock is the best paper for printing the name tent templates. It is sturdy and holds its shape well once folded, preventing the name tent from flopping. 
• Card stock also enables the name tents to be reusable throughout the week.

Step 2: Printing the Name Tent Templates

• Begin by printing the cover and reflection sheet double-sided on cardstock paper. 

Step 3: Folding the Name Tent

• Once the paper is printed, fold it in half along the solid line. You can fold the name tent template vertically or horizontally.
• For a vertical fold, fold the paper in half so that the shorter sides meet, creating a tent-like shape. This fold takes up less space on the student’s desk.
• For a horizontal fold, fold the paper in half so that the longer sides meet, creating a tent-like shape with a more extensive writing space. This fold provides more room for students to write their answers.

Step 4: Writing Name and Answers

• Students should write their first name on the cover sheet in the middle of the paper. Sometimes, students have nicknames or preferred names they prefer to be called. I tell them to add it next to their name. 

•  Next, they should answer the questions by writing their responses in each corner of the cover sheet. These questions could include information about their goals, favorite subjects, activities they enjoy, etc.

Step 5: Reflection and Feedback

•  On the reflection sheet of the name tent template, students should write a reflection on their day for a week. They can jot down how they felt, what they learned, or any other thoughts they want to share.
• To facilitate this process, use the student slide deck to project the discussion questions onto a screen, allowing students to respond using their name tents.

Wrapping It Up 

In conclusion, the most important thing in making a name tent on the first day of school is to foster a sense of community and connection in the classroom. 

This name-tent activity provides students a valuable opportunity to learn about each other while feeling engaged and part of their classroom community. 

Consider incorporating name tents into your lesson plans for the beginning of the year to help your students feel comfortable and set the stage for a positive and inclusive learning environment from day one.

But let’s take it even further! Try out any specific icebreakers mentioned in this post to kickstart meaningful interactions and friendships among your students.

This activity can keep your kids engaged as they walk into the classroom for the first time while greeting parents or new students.

Ready to get started? Sign up below to receive your free PDF file of name tent templates and start building connections in your classroom today!

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