Back to school event ideas to set kids up for success

Transitioning back to school after a long summer can be both exciting and challenging for families. Whether it's helping kids ease into their new routines, meet new friends, or transition to a new school, planning the right events can make all the difference. 

These creative back to school event ideas are designed to get kids feeling positive and ready to return. Use them to search for community events for your child or as inspiration to organize at your own school.  

Events to help kids transition back to school

1. Welcome week activities

Having a themed first week filled with daily activities that gradually ease students back into the school environment can help kids feel more comfortable. A few effective event types:

• Campus and classroom tours: Tour the school again to remind kids where the bathrooms, office, and library are. Familiarize students with their new classrooms and teachers. Letting kids explore other classrooms in the grade can also make them feel more comfortable and oriented.

• Icebreaker games: Encourage kids to make new friends through fun and interactive games. Try these icebreaker games for kids.

• Art projects: Encourage kids to share their summer experiences through creative arts and crafts to get them talking and connecting.

2. Parent-teacher meet and greet

Most schools hold Open House events early in the year for parents to meet teachers. However, if your teacher is open to an earlier one-on-one, it’s a great way to establish a connection. You can discuss things like:

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• Their teaching style and expectations for the year

• Concerns or special needs their child may have

3. Back to school picnic

Before the school year starts (and maybe again after), organize a potluck where families bring their favorite dishes. Meeting ahead in a relaxed and informal setting can help ease feelings of anxiety. Include activities like:

• Group games: Tug-of-war, sack races, and other team-building exercises

• Introduction sessions: Short introductions by teachers and staff to build familiarity

• Craft stations: Set up areas where kids can collaborate or work individually side-by-side. Think friendship bracelets or T-shirt decorating.

School events to welcome new and returning students

4. New student orientation

A dedicated, organized orientation for new students can significantly reduce first-day jitters. Many schools offer them before school starts so new students arrive with some familiarity.

Look for orientations or school welcome plans to include things like:

• Campus tours: Show new students around the school to familiarize them with important locations.

• Buddy system: Pair new students with a buddy student or family to help them adjust and make friends.

• Information sessions: Explain school policies, extracurricular activities, and support services available.

5. Returning student orientation

Kids entering a new grade at the same school can also benefit from school orientation, especially in middle school when routines change more often. Some examples:

• Locker assignments: If your school assigns new lockers each year, setting them up with their new locker location and lock combination can help boost confidence for the first day.

• Class schedules: Some schools don’t distribute teacher assignments or final schedules until school begins or at orientation. If your school offers orientation, and make schedule changes during orientation. 

• Important school materials: School IDs, pictures, uniforms, and spirit wear are often distributed during orientation.

6. Family fun night

Create an evening filled with activities that involve the whole family. This can foster a sense of community and make new families feel included. Activities might include:

• Games and prizes: Simple games with small prizes to engage children and parents.

• Food stalls: Local vendors or a school-organized BBQ.

• Talent show: Encourage students and parents to showcase their talents.

7. Welcome breakfast or coffee morning

A casual breakfast or coffee morning can be an excellent way for new parents to meet each other and school staff. Consider offering:

• Informational booths: Stations where parents can learn about volunteer opportunities, PTO/PTA memberships, and upcoming events.

• Guest speakers: Short talks from the principal or experienced parents sharing tips for a smooth school year.

School events to kick off the year

7. School spirit day

Kick off the year with a day dedicated to school spirit. Encourage students and staff to dress in school colors and participate in activities like:

• Pep rallies: Energize the school community with cheers, music, and performances.

• Spirit competitions: Friendly competitions between grades or classes to build camaraderie.

8. Annual fall fair

Start an annual tradition everyone can look forward to early in the year. It can include:

• Carnival games: Classic games like ring toss, dunk tank, and face painting.

• Food trucks: A variety of food options to cater to all tastes. Encourage school families to showcase their family recipes and culture!

• Live entertainment: Local bands, dance performances, and magic shows to entertain the crowds. It’s also a great time for a student talent show or concert.

9. Classroom open house

If your school holds a fall open house, it’s worth attending! Parents can visit their child's classroom, meet the teacher, and see the learning environment. Highlights often include:

• Student work displays: Showcase student projects and artwork.

• Interactive stations: Hands-on activities that parents and kids can do together.

• Teacher presentations: Informative sessions on what to expect in the upcoming year and how parents can help set kids up for continued success.

Set a positive tone for the year

Implementing these back to school event ideas can set a positive tone for the entire school year. Creating or participating in welcoming, informative, and fun experiences for both kids and parents can help ease transitions and foster a sense of community. Make this school year the best one yet!

Want more fun facts and parenting hacks? Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on family, lifestyle, and finance.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.