Engaging Back To School Icebreaker Activities For The Elementary Classroom

The first week of school is always a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and new experiences. Our students walk through the door carrying big feelings, big hopes, and big questions about what this new year will bring. That’s exactly why I rely on meaningful, engaging icebreakers to set the tone. These simple activities do far more than fill time—they help students feel seen, connected, and ready to learn. Over the years, I’ve found that the right icebreakers transform those early days into a foundation for confidence, community, and curiosity. Here are some of my favorite icebreaker activities to use during the first week of school.

Back To School This or That Game

The first few days can feel overwhelming for elementary students, especially when everything—from the classroom layout to the faces around them—is brand new. Icebreakers give students something enjoyable and low‑pressure to focus on. A favorite way to break the ice is with a Back‑to‑School This or That / Would You Rather Game, where students choose between silly, relatable options like “pencils or markers” or “kickball or soccer.” As they move to different sides of the room based on their choices, they start laughing, talking, and discovering classmates who share their interests. This simple movement‑based activity pulls students out of their shells and into the moment, helping them feel comfortable and excited to be part of the class.

All About Me Four Corners

Students learn best when they feel connected to the people around them. The All About Me Four Corners Icebreaker Game is perfect for this. Students choose a corner that matches their answer to prompts about hobbies, favorite foods, school activities, and more. Once they’re in their corner, they chat with classmates who chose the same answer. These early conversations help students practice listening, speaking, and social skills while building trust and comfort with one another. When students feel connected, they participate more, take risks, and engage deeply in academic tasks.

Back To School Photo Booth Props

Build classroom community with these Back To School Photo Booth Props. They are guaranteed to help students feel more comfortable in their new classroom and also make an adorable bulletin board and gift for parents. Send the pictures home with your students to build the class to home connection from the first day!

Find Someone Who

Another easy option is Find Someone Who, a back‑to‑school classic that gets students moving around the room to find classmates who match prompts like “has a pet,” “loves math,” or “has lost a tooth.” I give each of my students a copy of the phrases and have them find someone who matches each statement. When they find someone, they stop and chat to learn more about one another. I love the instant connections this activity creates. Can you use this activity in your classroom? Enter your info below and I will send this goodie your way!

Two Truths and A Lie

One of the best parts of using icebreakers during the first week is how simple they are to set up. Many require only basic materials or a quick list of prompts. Two Truths and a Lie is a perfect example. Students think of two true facts and one silly made‑up detail about themselves, and the class tries to guess which one is the lie. It’s quick, fun, and requires zero prep.

GRAB THE ICEBREAKER FREEBIE

Icebreakers aren’t just fun activities—they’re powerful tools that help students feel safe, connected, and ready to learn. When we take time to build relationships and community during the first week, everything else becomes easier. The routines stick. The learning deepens. The classroom feels like home. And our students walk into each new day knowing they belong. Let me know which activity is your favorite in the comments below.