First Day of Art Class: Setting the Tone for Success
The first day of art class plays a critical role in setting the tone for the rest of the semester. Making a strong first impression—both for you as the teacher and for your students—can shape the class dynamics, engagement levels, and community spirit.
For the past 13 years, I’ve used these same first-day procedures, and they’ve never let me down. While they might not be the flashiest or most high-tech methods, they are incredibly effective. Here’s a breakdown of how to start your first day on the right foot.
The Supplies You’ll Need:
- Student Info Sheets
- Printed Supply Fee Sheets (if allowed by your school)
- 4×6 Index Cards or scrap paper
- Crayola® Markers
Prep Work
1. Organize Your Rosters:
Print your class rosters and write each student’s name on one side of an index card in large, bold marker (use a Sharpie). Do this the day before classes start since rosters can change at the last minute. Organize the cards by class and set them aside.
2. Discuss Supply Fees:
Speak with your principal about collecting a small fee for class supplies. Even if it’s never been done before, it’s worth asking. A small fee of $20 per student for a semester can make a huge difference in your art room budget.
3. Set Up Parent Communication:
Create email groups for each class and send out a welcome message with your supply fee letter attached (if your school allows). Include a link to your online school payment portal if applicable. A simple “Welcome!” email helps build positive relationships with parents, which can be invaluable later in the year.
First Day of Art Class Activities Breakdown
Step 1: Seating and Cards
When students walk in, have their index cards with names on the desks or tables where you want them to sit. Go in alphabetical order to keep it simple. This ensures there’s no confusion or scrambling for seats.
Why write the names on cards?
This small gesture shows students you care. It’s a personal touch that sets a positive tone from the start.
Step 2: Welcome at the Door
Stand outside your classroom and greet each student as they come in. This is especially important for freshmen and new students who may be feeling nervous. Direct them to sit where their name card is placed, and remind them not to move seats.
Step 3: The Info Card
Once all students are seated, introduce yourself. Ensure everyone has met any class prerequisites (such as Drawing 1 for Painting 1) and send any students needing schedule changes to guidance.
Next, tell the students they’ll need a pen or pencil to fill out the Student Info Sheet. Wait while they find something to write with (yes, half won’t have one, even on the first day!). Have them flip over their name card and fill out their information as you display the Student Info Sheet via projector or screen.
Step 4: The Name Game
This is the most important part of the first day. It’s all about learning your students’ names and starting to build relationships.
- Hand out blank index cards and markers and divide the class into two lines.
- Have each student write their name on the card, then alphabetize themselves by first name. As they rearrange, they get to know each other—and you start associating faces with names.
Now for the fun part:
You’ll work down each line saying their names. By switching back and forth between the two sides of the room, you’ll get multiple repetitions, helping you memorize names quickly.
Bonus Round:
After first names, shuffle the lines and have students alphabetize by last name. Then do a “Pet Name Round,” where they write their pet’s name (or “No Pets” if they don’t have one). It’s a fun, low-pressure way to lighten the mood and build rapport.
Step 5: Wrap Up the First Day
After the name activity, thank your students for participating and share your excitement for the semester. Let them know they’re now part of your classroom community, and that you’ll be taking a class photo at the end of the week to display alongside past students.
With about 10 minutes left in class, let them know what to expect tomorrow—starting the first project, which will be all about getting to know them better.
First Day Takeaways
What We Didn’t Do:
- Go over the syllabus
- Outline classroom rules
- Dive into procedures
Why?
Because on the first day, students are already overwhelmed with rules and procedures from all their other classes. Instead, focus on what matters most: building relationships and creating a welcoming environment. There’s plenty of time to go over the syllabus later.
Explore More Resources and Stay Connected
1. Shop Mrs. T Fox’s Resource Store on TPT
Looking for resources to make your first day (and the rest of your semester) run smoothly? Visit Mrs. T Fox’s Resource Store on TPT for student info sheets, creative classroom activities, and time-saving tools.
2. Learn with Mrs. T Fox’s Online Courses
Want actionable strategies to improve classroom management and create engaging lessons? Check out Mrs. T Fox’s Online Courses for expert guidance, lesson frameworks, and more.
3. Follow Mrs. T Fox on Social Media
Stay inspired and up-to-date with fresh teaching ideas and behind-the-scenes highlights by following @mrs_tfoxresources on Instagram. Discover creative approaches to building a positive classroom community and boosting student engagement!
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Happy Teaching!
The first day of art class sets the stage for everything that follows. By focusing on relationships, engagement, and a welcoming environment, you can create a strong foundation for success.
Tiff 🙂
