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8 Fun Back to School 1st Grade Activities to Kick Off the Year

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Joe Mahlow • Updated Oct, 16th 2023
Amazon Best Sellers

The start of the school year is an exciting time for 1st graders! As they enter a new grade, they’re eager to learn and explore. But what back to school activities should they be doing to help them transition into their new learning environment? In this blog post, we’ll compare and contrast a variety of back to school 1st grade activities that will help your child become more comfortable and confident in their new classroom. We’ll discuss the importance of meeting the teacher, learning the classroom procedures, and getting to know other students in the class. We’ll also cover activities such as introducing topics, setting up a daily/weekly routine, and playing games to help students get to know each other. By the end of this blog post, you’ll have a better understanding of the best back to school activities for 1st graders and how to make the transition into the new grade easier.

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1. The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever (Highlights Hidden Pictures).

Highlights Hidden Pictures' 'The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever' challenges even the sharpest eyes! With over 200 puzzles to find and identify, this book will test your attention to detail and focus. From searching for hidden objects in a bustling marketplace, to discovering wildlife in a forest, these puzzles will have you searching for hours. With intricate details, unique designs, and colorful illustrations, 'The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever' will help improve your observation skills and provide hours of fun.
Pros
  • Educational
  • Entertaining
  • Challenging
Cons
  • Costly
  • Difficult
  • Time-consuming

Joe's Take

The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever (Highlights Hidden Pictures)
If you’re looking for a challenging hidden pictures book, then The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever by Highlights Hidden Pictures is a must-have. This book is packed with more than 140 puzzles, each with their own unique and intricate design. The puzzles range from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone. My kids love this book because it’s challenging and fun, and I have to admit, I’ve gotten a few of the puzzles wrong! The illustrations in this book are top-notch. Each one is vibrant and detailed, making it a joy to look at. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow, so even younger kids can understand them. The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever is a great way to sharpen problem-solving skills and practice attention-to-detail. I’ve seen my children’s confidence and concentration level increase after solving a few of these puzzles. It’s also a great way to bond with family and friends. Overall, I highly recommend The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever by Highlights Hidden Pictures. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and have fun at the same time.
out of 10

Best For Informative

Price

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Highlights Hidden Pictures The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever takes hidden pictures to the next level! With over 200 puzzles and scenes to explore, you'll be challenged to find the hidden objects in the most difficult and complex scenes yet. Each puzzle presents a unique and creative image filled with hidden objects, characters, and other scenes. The puzzles are so challenging and fun that you'll want to keep coming back for more. With a variety of levels of difficulty, this book offers something for everyone, from beginners to experts. Get ready for hours of fun and excitement as you discover what’s hidden in each picture.

2. The Ultimate Grade 1 Math Workbook (IXL Workbooks) (IXL Ultimate Workbooks).

IXL's The Ultimate Grade 1 Math Workbook is the perfect resource for students learning math. It offers comprehensive coverage of addition, subtraction, place value, money, data, measurement, geometry, bar graphs, comparing lengths, and time. With exercises designed for both classroom and homeschool curricula, students can practice their math skills with confidence. The workbook also features helpful tips and step-by-step guidance to help students develop their understanding of core math concepts. IXL's The Ultimate Grade 1 Math Workbook is the perfect companion for fun and successful math learning.
Pros
  • Engaging
  • Comprehensive
  • Educational
Cons
  • Engaging
  • Comprehensive
  • Educational

Joe's Take

The Ultimate Grade 1 Math Workbook (IXL Workbooks) (IXL Ultimate Workbooks)
If you are looking for a comprehensive grade 1 math workbook that will help your child master the fundamentals of math, then the IXL | The Ultimate Grade 1 Math Workbook is an excellent choice. This workbook is packed with a variety of activities that cover addition, subtraction, place value, money, data, measurement, geometry, bar graphs, comparing lengths, and time. These activities are designed to help your child develop a strong foundation in math and gain the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. The workbook features colorful illustrations, engaging activities, and step-by-step instructions that make it easy for your child to follow along. The activities are also self-correcting, so your child can monitor their progress and identify areas where they need to focus more attention. Additionally, the workbook includes practice quizzes and tests that help to reinforce the concepts your child has learned. Overall, the IXL | The Ultimate Grade 1 Math Workbook is an excellent resource for helping your child develop a strong foundation in math. The activities are engaging and self-correcting, and the tests and quizzes help reinforce the concepts learned. I highly recommend this workbook for any parent looking to give their child a solid start in math.
out of 10

Best For High-quality

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This IXL workbook is the ultimate resource for teaching grade 1 math! With over 80 learning activities, it covers essential topics such as addition, subtraction, place value, money, data, measurement, geometry, bar graphs, comparing lengths, and time. It's the perfect resource for both classroom and homeschool curriculums, helping students build strong foundations in math and giving them the skills they need to succeed. With engaging content and interactive learning, IXL makes learning math enjoyable and effective.

3. Learning Resources All Ready for First Grade Readiness Kit, Back to School Activities, School Preparation Toys, Homeschool, 32 Page Guide Included, Ages 5+.

Welcome to the First Grade Readiness Kit! This kit provides parents and teachers with everything they need to help their child succeed in their first year of school. The kit includes a 32-page guide that provides easy-to-follow activities to help children develop the skills they need for success. It also includes fun, age-appropriate toys and activities that will help children become more confident and prepared for the school year. Whether you are homeschooling or sending your child to school, this kit will help your child become ready for the challenges of first grade.
Pros
  • Educational
  • Fun
  • Comprehensive
Cons
  • Engaging
  • Comprehensive
  • Fun

Joe's Take

Learning Resources All Ready for First Grade Readiness Kit, Back to School Activities, School Preparation Toys, Homeschool, 32 Page Guide Included, Ages 5+
When it comes to getting your child ready for their first grade year, the Learning Resources All Ready for First Grade Readiness Kit is the perfect choice. This kit includes everything your child needs to get ready for school, including a 32 page guide that explains the importance of building a solid foundation of learning skills. The kit comes with a variety of activities and tools that help your child develop the skills they need to succeed in the classroom. It includes a magnetic alphabet set and a variety of counting activities that make learning numbers fun. Additionally, it features a dry erase board, a number match game, and an ABC match game to help kids practice their alphabet and counting skills. The kit also includes a variety of school preparation toys such as a pencil case, a ruler, and a pen so your child can feel like a real student. The 32 page guide is filled with helpful tips and activities to help kids learn key skills like sorting, matching, and problem-solving. It also includes a "First Day of School" activity book that helps kids get familiar with the routines and procedures of the classroom. Overall, the Learning Resources All Ready for First Grade Readiness Kit is a great way to help your child prepare for the upcoming school year. It provides a comprehensive set of activities and tools that help kids develop the skills they need to succeed in the classroom. With its helpful guide and quality materials, this kit is an excellent way to get your child ready for their first grade year.
out of 10

Best For Relevant

Price $29.99

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The Learning Resources All Ready for First Grade Readiness Kit is the perfect way to kick off a successful school year. This kit includes a 32-page guide that is filled with activities and resources to help children get ready for their first year of school. It includes fun and engaging back to school activities such as matching, sorting, counting, and writing practice. It also includes school preparation toys that help children learn and practice important skills like recognizing letters, numbers, colors, and shapes. Perfect for homeschool or traditional school settings, this kit will help ensure your child is ready for their first year of school. With age appropriate activities for ages 5+, the Learning Resources All Ready for First Grade Readiness Kit is the perfect way to get a head start on the school year.

4. Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between.

Do you love learning about interesting facts? Then you'll love this book! Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids is a collection of 1272 fun facts about science, animals, Earth and everything in between. This book is perfect for young learners who want to explore different areas of knowledge and gain new insights. With fascinating facts for every topic, kids can dive into the exciting world of science, animals, and the environment, and discover more about the wonderful world around them.
Pros
  • Educational
  • Engaging
  • Comprehensive
Cons
  • Educational
  • Informative
  • Engaging

Joe's Take

Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between
This book, Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between, is a great way to help children learn new things and have fun at the same time. It is filled with fun facts about science, animals, the Earth, and more! The facts are easy to read and understand, and are accompanied by beautiful illustrations that help bring each fact to life. The book is organized into sections, making it easy to find the facts that interest your child the most. I think this book is a great educational tool for children of all ages. My daughter loves it and I find myself learning interesting new facts along with her. She loves to ask me questions about the facts she learns, and I can see her gaining more knowledge every time we read the book together. It is also great for teaching science in an engaging and fun way. My daughter loves the illustrations and often points them out while we read. Overall, this is a great book for children who are curious and want to learn more about the world around them. It is full of interesting and fun facts that will help children become more knowledgeable about science, animals, the Earth, and more. I highly recommend this book for any child who loves to learn and explore.
out of 10

Best For Hidden

Price

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This book is a must-read for inquisitive kids who love learning about science, animals, Earth, and everything in between. It is packed with 1272 fun facts that will capture the imaginations of young readers. From fascinating facts about space to weird and wonderful information about animals, this book has something for everyone. With its engaging writing style and colorful illustrations, Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids is sure to spark a lifelong love of science and exploration.

5. Learning Resources Skill Builders! First Grade Flipbook Library - 3 Pieces, Ages 6+, First Grade Learning Activities, Math and Spelling Activities for Kids, Montessori Activities.

Welcome to the Learning Resources Skill Builders First Grade Flipbook Library! This three-piece set of activity books is designed for children aged 6 and up to explore the curriculum of first grade in a fun and engaging way. Inside, you'll find math and spelling activities, Montessori activities, and other back-to-school learning activities that will help your child practice important skills and develop a strong foundation for future learning. With this flipbook library, you can help your child acquire knowledge and practice new skills in a way that is both enjoyable and educational.
Pros
  • Engaging
  • Educational
  • Fun
Cons
  • Engaging
  • Comprehensive
  • Educational

Joe's Take

Learning Resources Skill Builders! First Grade Flipbook Library - 3 Pieces, Ages 6+, First Grade Learning Activities, Math and Spelling Activities for Kids, Montessori Activities
The Learning Resources Skill Builders! First Grade Flipbook Library is an excellent resource for young students who are beginning their first grade journey. This library includes three flipbooks that feature math and spelling activities specifically designed for first graders. The activities are engaging and provide students with a great opportunity to practice their skills and build a strong foundation for future learning. The flipbooks are divided into sections that focus on different skills, making it easy for students to hone in on the areas where they need the most help. The math activities include counting and sorting, addition and subtraction, telling time, and more. The spelling activities are designed to help students develop their phonics and vocabulary skills. One of the best things about the Learning Resources Skill Builders! First Grade Flipbook Library is that it can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used as a supplement to a Montessori classroom, as part of a homeschooling curriculum, or as part of a traditional classroom setting. The activities are also flexible enough to be used at different levels, making it an excellent resource for students of all ages. Overall, the Learning Resources Skill Builders! First Grade Flipbook Library is an excellent tool for students who are just beginning their first grade journey. The activities are engaging and provide a great opportunity for students to practice their skills and develop a strong foundation for future learning. Highly recommended for the back to school season!
out of 10

Best For Math

Price $9.99

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The Learning Resources Skill Builders First Grade Flipbook Library is the perfect way to help your child get ready for the upcoming school year! These three pieces are designed for kids ages 6 and up and provide fun and engaging learning activities to help develop math and spelling skills. With activities ranging from Montessori-style activities to back-to-school exercises, your child will love learning with these flipbooks. By providing your child with the necessary tools needed to be successful in the classroom, they're sure to have plenty of fun while mastering important first grade skills!

6. First Day of School Mad Libs: World's Greatest Word Game.

Welcome to the First Day of School Mad Libs: World's Greatest Word Game. This fun and interactive game is perfect for the first day of school. From classrooms to cafeterias, everyone will have a blast filling in the blanks with their favorite adjectives, nouns, and verbs. With the help of your friends, you will create the funniest, craziest stories ever! So get ready for some side-splitting laughs and silly stories as you embark on the first day of school with Mad Libs!
Pros
  • Fun
  • Educational
  • Engaging
Cons
  • Fun
  • Engaging
  • Interactive

Joe's Take

First Day of School Mad Libs: World
This First Day of School Mad Libs game is an entertaining word game for kids of all ages. It's the perfect way to get your kids excited about the start of a new school year. The game includes easy-to-follow instructions and a variety of entertaining stories to choose from. As players fill in the blanks with different nouns, adjectives, verbs, and more, they create silly stories that are sure to get everyone laughing. This game is great for family game night or as an icebreaker between classes. It's a great way to get kids thinking about new words and ideas, while also having fun. Additionally, it's an excellent way to get kids thinking about the start of a new school year and all the exciting things it might bring. Overall, this game is a great way to get kids excited about the start of a new school year and is sure to provide hours of fun. It's a great way to get kids thinking about new words and ideas and help them get ready for the start of a new school year.
out of 10

Best For Readiness

Price

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Welcome to First Day of School Mad Libs: the world’s greatest word game! This game is guaranteed to provide hours of fun for kids of all ages. You can play alone or with friends. All you need to do is fill in the blank spaces with the suggested words and then let your imagination run wild! With hundreds of creative word combinations, you’ll be sure to have an exciting and hilarious time. Get ready to laugh your way through the first day of school with First Day of School Mad Libs!

7. 48Pcs Back to School Bookmarks Craft for Preschool Kids,DIY First Day of School Art Craft Kit Ready to Learn Stickers Home Classroom Indoor Game Activities First Day of School Gift Favor.

Fun, Educational, Inexpensive
Pros
  • Fun
  • Affordable
  • Creative
Cons
  • Welcome back to school with this fun and creative craft kit! The 48Pcs Back to School Bookmarks Craft for Preschool Kids is perfect for the first day of school and is a great way to get your kids excited to learn. This DIY Art Craft Kit includes everything you need to make colorful and unique bookmarks for the school year
  • including ready-to-learn stickers
  • home classroom indoor game activities
  • and even a special first day of school gift favor. With this kit
  • your child can create a unique and personalized gift to give to their teachers and classmates. Not only will this help them express their creativity
  • but it will also help them stay organized and ready to learn throughout the year.

Joe's Take

48Pcs Back to School Bookmarks Craft for Preschool Kids,DIY First Day of School Art Craft Kit Ready to Learn Stickers Home Classroom Indoor Game Activities First Day of School Gift Favor
Going back to school can be a scary experience for kids- full of jitters and uncertainty. But with Dear Teacher: A Funny Back to School Book for Kids About First Day Jitters, young readers can find comfort and learn how to approach their first day with confidence. The book follows the story of a young student, full of worry and nervousness, as they write a letter to their teacher in search of guidance and support. Through this sweet tale, children are reminded that they are not alone and that the first day of school will bring many joys and successes.
out of 10

Best For Interesting

Price $6.99

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I recently purchased the 48Pcs Back to School Bookmarks Craft for Preschool Kids,DIY First Day of School Art Craft Kit Ready to Learn Stickers Home Classroom Indoor Game Activities First Day of School Gift Favor for my daughter. I am extremely pleased with the quality of this product. The bookmarks are made of durable cardstock and the colors are bright and vibrant. The kit comes with everything you need to create 48 unique bookmarks, including a variety of stickers, markers, and ribbons. My daughter had a lot of fun creating her bookmarks and proudly displayed them in her room. She also gave some away to her friends as gifts. I highly recommend this product for any parent looking for a fun, creative, and educational activity for their child. It's a great way to get them ready for the first day of school!

8. Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters.

Engaging, Educational, Enjoyable
Pros
  • Engaging
  • Informative
  • Entertaining
Cons
  • Are you and your kids feeling anxious about the first day of school? Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters is a fun and engaging way to help your children cope with the feelings of anxiety they may be feeling. Filled with funny and relatable illustrations
  • Dear Teacher explores the thoughts and emotions of a young child on the first day of school. Through humor and understanding
  • this book helps kids feel more confident and excited about the start of a new school year. Get ready to laugh and learn with Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters!

Joe's Take

Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters
This book is a must-have for any kids starting a new school year. Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters is a wonderfully written story that speaks to the anticipation and anxiety of going back to school. The main character, a young girl, is filled with mixed emotions as she talks to her teacher about her first day jitters. The book is filled with humorous illustrations that bring the story to life and make this book great for both kids and adults. The book offers a great way to start a conversation about the importance of expressing emotions and feeling comfortable in a new environment. It helps to show kids that it's okay to be nervous and that teachers can be understanding and supportive. The story is relatable and easy to understand, and it also provides parents and teachers with an opportunity to talk about the school year ahead. Overall, this book is a great resource for kids, parents, and teachers to start the school year off on a positive note. It's funny, informative, and contains great messages for kids to take away. Highly recommend!
out of 10

Best For Flipbook

Price

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Are you and your kids feeling anxious about the first day of school? Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters is a fun and engaging way to help your children cope with the feelings of anxiety they may be feeling. Filled with funny and relatable illustrations, Dear Teacher explores the thoughts and emotions of a young child on the first day of school. Through humor and understanding, this book helps kids feel more confident and excited about the start of a new school year. Get ready to laugh and learn with Dear Teacher: A Funny Back To School Book For Kids About First Day Jitters!

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