Creative Back-to-School Teaching Ideas and Tips

Back to school seems to be a hectic time for both kids in a homeschool setting and those who attend a traditional brick-and-mortar school. Instead of worrying about how to start the year, use this list of fun school activities and ideas to get started!

There are book recommendations, printable activities, creative crafts, and even some great back-to-school quotes. Fun for all!

Use these simple activities and ideas to be prepared for the first week of school. From here, you can branch off and do more learning activities!

Table of Contents

How do I help kids get excited for the start of school?

Make back-to-school feel like an adventure by combining fun traditions, hands-on prep, and positive anticipation. Keep it upbeat and kid-focused!

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Create a Countdown Calendar

Use stickers, mini treats, or drawings for each day.
Add fun activities like “pick your first-day outfit” or “decorate school supplies.”

Let Them Choose Supplies

Give kids some control—let them pick a lunchbox, folders, or backpack design.
Add a surprise item (like glitter pens or silly erasers) as a special gift.

Do a “Back-to-School Adventure Day”

Visit the school or playground.
Include a stop for a special treat like ice cream or a bookstore.
Let them help pack their backpack at the end of the day.

Read School-Themed Books Together

Great for calming nerves and building excitement.

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Get into a Routine Gradually

Start earlier bedtimes and breakfast practice the week before.
Turn it into a game—can they beat the “morning routine” clock?

Plan a First-Day Celebration

Balloons, a special breakfast, or a photo wall.
Let them choose a “first day” dinner or dessert.

Set Goals or Hopes Together

Ask: “What do you hope to learn this year?” or “What’s one thing you’re excited for?”
Write it down in a journal or draw it.

Model Excitement

Share happy school memories or discuss your favorite school subjects.
Show them you’re genuinely looking forward to hearing about their day.

More Fun Learning Printables for Kids

First Day of School Books

Whether or not you homeschool your kids many young kids get anxious about going to school. You can take care of those first day of school jitters with this list of first day of school books.

See them here

Clever Back to School Bulletin Board Ideas

Are you looking to decorate your classroom in a fun and engaging way? Then check out Crafty Morning’s post with clever back to school bulletin board ideas.

See them here

Decorated Supply Boxes

Let your kids paint their own pencil boxes to help ensure they are going to want to hang on to them this year.

See it here

Decorating a Composition Notebook

Do your kids keep a daily journal? Really get a feel for their personalities and creative nature by starting the school year with decorating composition books! They bring the books and you supply the crafty stuff (if you are in a classroom – if you are homeschooling, then you get to supply it all)!

See it here

1st Day of School Handprint Crafts and Keepsakes

Teachers – these handprint crafts would be an awesome surprise for the parents of your kids! Create one at the beginning of the year and one at the end of the year – then, send both to Mom so she can compare the growth in her child!

See them here