It’s crazy to think about how fast the year is already going! It is now time to start thinking about hearts, candy, and another classroom celebration. Valentine’s Day is just a few weeks away! Honestly, Valentine’s Day in 1st grade is such an exciting time. Students are so eager to hand out their cards, celebrate with their friends, and work on festive activities. Thankfully, here are some incredible ways to incorporate lots of learning on Valentine’s Day!
4 Valentine’s Day Ideas to Try in the Classroom
#1 Valentine’s Day Writing Prompts and Cards FREEBIE
Celebrating Valentine’s Day in 1st grade is all about friendship! So, these FREE writing templates are perfect for exploring this topic. There are multiple prompts to build a discussion on cooperation, friendship, and inclusion.
In addition to the writing prompts, there are printable Valentine’s Day cards for students to color and hand out. This is the perfect way to have a fun celebration in the classroom while ensuring all students have cards. Parents will love not stressing about buying and preparing cards at home.
#2 Directed Drawing Fancy Heart Video FREEBIE
Students love Directed Drawing activities! By showing a video of the project, teachers are free to walk around and help students.
Everyone will begin with a heart in the middle of the page. The picture will become a beautiful full-page art project as students complete each step. The video prompts teachers to pause to ensure all students are ready to move on. Students can even add more details to show off their creativity.
There is even the option to play music for students to listen to as they draw.
Since students will love this activity so much, check out the Directed Drawing Full Year Bundle. There are activities for all holidays, events, and seasons throughout the year!
For more great information about Directed Drawing, check out Valentine’s Day Directed Drawing!
#3 Secret Sentences Bundle
Learning how to write sentences is crucial! Thankfully, students will enjoy working on this skill while celebrating Valentine’s Day in 1st grade.
Specifically, there are 14 seasonal packs with at least 7 pages in each pack. This includes Valentine’s Day, Earth Day, and Springtime. Honestly, there is a seasonal pack to use throughout the entire year!
Students will begin by identifying the first letter sound of small picture icons to decode a secret sentence. For instance, a picture of an apple represents the letter a. Then, students will write each letter to decode words in a simple sentence. Once students decode the sentence, they print it neatly and self-edit it. Afterward, they will show their comprehension of the sentence by drawing a matching picture. Students will be proud of their sentences and eager to read them to a partner!
Ultimately, students will create, read, write, and self-edit complete, simple sentences on each activity page. They will have so much fun and love cracking the code!
Be sure to check out the FREEBIE below!
#4 February Crafts
Students love working on crafts in the classroom. Thankfully, this collection is perfect for Valentine’s Day!
The February crafts include a concentric heart, a charm card, a checkerboard heart, a friendship necklace, and more! There are even crafts for Groundhog’s Day.
Each craft includes step-by-step photos and descriptions to guide students. Additionally, there are writing templates for students to write about their crafts.
Valentine’s Day in 1st grade is a fun time focusing on kindness and friendship. Luckily, these lessons and activities create perfect ways to celebrate in the classroom.
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