In order to teach children, we need to build relationships with them.
In order to work comfortably with each other, they need to build relationships with each other. 
So how can we build relationships?
Whether school is starting soon, or not for a while, these things are important:
- Building bonds of trust with your students.
- Helping students build bonds with each other.
- Get to know the student's academic abilities,
- Help the children get to know your expectations and procedures.
This post suggests some team-building and getting-to-know-you activities. These activities will also help you get to know your students while showing your expectations as well!
Here's one way to get them comfortable with you and with each other:
Morning Meetings are a great way to start the day! I like to start with some sort of greeting. These Morning Meeting Greeting Activities come with a fun question for every single day, a nice picture and the same writing prompt.
Boom Learning activities are a must! They're amazingly easy to assign in class or online. They're compatible with every platform, and can be sent home with just a link for homework. Plus, the teacher can monitor how each child is doing!
Who am I Boom Cards are perfect for the beginning of the school year. This is a chance for the children to think about who they are, and how they can contribute to their class.
Plus, they get plenty of reading and writing practice! (And the teacher can assess these skills through their responses!)
Building Friendships is a popular Boom Learning Resource that gets the children thinking about making good choices when it comes to socializing.
Good Citizenship Boom is a great opportunity for children to think about social situations! This will help them learn what kind of expectations you have in your class. The stories give them plenty of examples of positive interactions in the classroom and on the playground.
This "Get to Know You" Game is a perfect way to begin reading groups, centers, or just have fun. The cards can be shared at morning meeting, or used with the included Board Game.
This resource has a collection of games and activities for building classroom community. These are perfect for morning meetings! 60 Team Building Games and Activities to Build Classroom Community
Looking to save some money (and time) on a bundle? Try this one:
Back to School Team Builders, Ice Breakers, and Get to Know You Activities! This collection has everything you'll need to get to know your students and get them feeling comfortable with each other! Once you've got them feeling safe and comfortable with each other, then the REAL learning can begin!
I'm sure you'll find ways to build relationships with your students.
What's your plan?
