Getting back into school-mode is a process for me. I have to slowly work up to waking up earlier, knock out the yearly well-checks and teeth cleanings, and gather all of my colored pens to try and organize August’s chaos for my kids.

And then there’s my classroom.

That part usually involves a lot of staring into space while I try to wrap my head around everything I’ve ignored for the past two months.

Like I said—it’s a process.

But one thing I’ve often overlooked during back-to-school prep? The Sunday School classroom.

Don’t Forget Sunday School During Back-to-School Season

Every church organizes their calendar a little differently. Some have Sunday School year-round, while others take a summer break. Regardless, many churches have one big transition day where kids move to a new grade or class. In our church, we call this Promotion Sunday—which is much catchier than “Move to a Different Class Because Now I’m in 4th Grade Sunday.” 😄

No matter how your church handles the transition, that first day in a new Sunday School class is just as important as the first day in a traditional classroom. A few simple activities and intentional structure can help your class run smoothly and ease any jitters students may feel.

Here are some tried-and-true Sunday School activities perfect for your first day—whether it’s “Promotion Sunday“, “Move Up Sunday” or just the start of a new year!

Teacher Introduction

Begin with a short introduction of yourself. Even if you have returning students, they’ll appreciate hearing about you (and might even learn something new). Keep it personal—share your favorite food, hobby, or pet.

Bonus tip: Use visuals! A few family or pet photos can go a long way in helping kids feel connected.

In large churches, consider sending an introductory letter home with students so parents can get to know you, too.

Student Introductions

By introducing yourself and then allowing the students to introduce themselves, you are laying the groundwork for letting your students feel at home. Help students introduce themselves in a low-pressure way.

Try this idea using Dum-Dum suckers (these are quick to eat, inexpensive, and free of major allergens). Pass around a container of the suckers and let students choose any flavor. After they’ve chosen their flavor, assign something fun for them to share based on the color or flavor they choose.

Another great way to learn about your students is to have them complete a Christian “All About Me” questionnaire. After they complete these, you can display them in the room to give them some ownership of the room. In addition, you can use them as a reference in the future as you prepare lessons.

Keep a few extras on hand—you never know when a new student will join mid-year.

Teach Your Routines

Even if your classroom meets just once a week, routines still matter! On the first day, go over a few simple expectations like:

• Where to sit or go when arriving
• Bathroom policies
• Where to find supplies like scissors and glue
• When it’s okay to talk or ask questions

You don’t need to go into great detail—just give students a feel for the flow.

Get Moving!

It’s easy to let the first day become all talk, but movement = engagement—especially with kids!

One great option is a church tour. Take your class to visit different rooms, introduce key leaders, or show them the sanctuary if they don’t normally attend worship services.

This helps students feel more comfortable in their environment and encourages curiosity about their church home.

Ease Into Learning

The first day isn’t the time to dive into a heavy Bible lesson (save Pharaoh and the plagues for next week!). Instead, focus on helping students get comfortable with you and with each other.

Something you could teach the students about is the church. Students can learn how old the church is, the name of the pastor, and even what activities are available to them.

This printable worksheet is low-prep and can be sent home as a keepsake.

Make It Fun

Once the essentials are out of the way, it’s time to play!

“This or That” is one of my favorite first-day games. It requires zero prep, works with any age, and helps kids get to know each other.

• Have students stand in the middle of the room.
• Ask a question like, “Do you like ice cream (point left) or cake (point right)?”
• Students move to their answer side.

You can ask as many questions as time allows!

Another fun, low-key activity is this church craft. Kids can color a picture of your church and write fun facts under flaps on the doors and windows. This also makes a great first-day bulletin board display!

The first day of Sunday School is always a mix of nerves and excitement—for both you and your students. But with a little preparation, a few fun activities, and some thoughtful structure, your classroom can quickly become a place of comfort, learning, and joy.

Use these Back to School church activities to welcome your students, break the ice, and set the tone for an amazing year of learning about God’s love.