For me, one of the best things about being a first grade teacher was teaching community while building one; the classroom. The first grade standards align beautifully with the first six weeks of school curriculum from Responsive Classroom, which focuses on procedures, and making connections before the core instruction begins.
The concept of building community is simple, but as adults, we tend to overcomplicate things. Kids instinctively understand the basic principles; you are an important part of your community, so be kind to your neighbor, be of service, and find ways to contribute, and learn about others.
It was in that light that I created a printable coloring book about community. The words are traceable to help students develop their handwriting. The definitions are easy to understand, using simple words to convey deeper messages about how communities are built, and the roles we play in creating them. Anhe pictures are so cute thanks to the wonderful work of Paul from ClipArtisan on Etsy.
How do you build community with your new class?
Ms. Martha
