An open house is a fantastic opportunity for parents and potential students to get a glimpse into your preschool, pre-K, or kindergarten classroom. It’s a chance to showcase your program’s unique features, meet your staff, and create a positive first impression. To make your open house a memorable event, consider incorporating engaging activities, providing helpful information, and offering enticing freebies. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of ideas to help you plan a successful open house that will leave a lasting impression.
THE TABLE SETUP
Organize a table with essential items for families. If you have desks or designated student spots, you can also place each student’s items on their respective desks. On the table, include folders, an open house scavenger hunt, treats for students, pens, and Post-it notes. Next, provide clear instructions for families on what they need to do at the table. This way, while you’re engaging with one family, others will know how to proceed without having to wait.
SCAVENGER HUNT
This scavenger hunt is designed to help families familiarize themselves with the classroom and the morning routine in an engaging way. It provides a fun activity that allows everyone to explore the classroom and practice what to expect on the first day of school. By participating, families will walk in feeling confident and prepared, making the start of the school year smoother and more enjoyable.
OPEN HOUSE FOLDER
What’s in the Open House Folder? Each family receives a personalized folder filled with handouts designed to help them understand the classroom environment, our routines, rules, procedures, and what to expect throughout the school year.
- Event Calendar: An overview of important dates and events for the school year.
- Class Rules Parent Note & Mini Rules Poster: Information about our classroom rules, including options for displaying the rules at home.
- Green and Red Choices Handout: An explanation of our behavior management system to help families understand our approach.
- Daily Schedule: A detailed outline of our daily schedule, including what students will be learning. (Editable freebie!)
- Meet the Teacher & Meet the Team Information Page: Introduces the teacher and support staff to families.
- Getting to Know You Student Information Page: A form for families to fill out and return, helping us learn more about their child. (Freebie!)
- Gift Ideas Handout: Suggestions for gifts that align with our classroom needs. (Freebie!)
- Family Handbook: Essential information and forms required to operate a state-licensed home preschool.
STUDENT TREATS AND FREE TAGS
Treat each student to a delicious snack and attach a charming tag as a fun gift during open house! Encourage students to sign in at the event. Here are some creative ideas, hacks, and freebies for preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten open houses, along with first day of school printables. #preschool #prek #openhouse
PRACTICE MORNING ROUTINE
Include all the steps of the morning routine in the class scavenger hunt so families and students can practice during open house. This will help students feel more secure on the first day of school, as they’ll know exactly what to do and where to go.
The morning routine includes:
- Putting items away in their cubby
- Answering the Question of the Day
- Signing in at their level (some may scribble, while others write letters or their full names)
- Saying goodbye to their family
- Engaging in a table time activity
By practicing these steps, students will be well-prepared for their first day!
FAMILY SIGN-IN AND FAMILY BOARD
In the scavenger hunt, include a stop for families to locate the sign-in sheet and verify that their child’s name is spelled correctly. Names are incredibly important, and I want to ensure every child’s name is accurate. This also provides families with an opportunity to notice the family bulletin board, where I will share important information throughout the year.
CENTER ACTIVITIES
I want each child to engage in a quick, simple activity at every center for two main reasons: first, to allow students to play in each area, and second, so families can familiarize themselves with the names of the centers and see some of the activities available. Since students learn through play, it’s important for families to witness the types of activities their children will be doing.
Tip: Keep messy activities to a minimum during open house! With siblings present, there will be even more people in the classroom. While I love having families see their child’s classroom, I make sure to put away items like slime, play dough, and paint to reduce cleanup after the event.
PRACTICE HAND WASHING
Absolutely! Including handwashing as an item on the classroom scavenger hunt is essential. This allows students to practice an important routine before the first day of school. It also informs parents that their children will be expected to wash their hands and use the bathroom independently. This promotes a sense of responsibility and confidence in the students as they prepare for the school year.
FAMILY PHOTOS AND NAME TAGS
At the end of the scavenger hunt, I take a photo of each family! I use these photos to create student name tags. Additionally, students can wear their family necklaces, which help them feel close to their loved ones if they miss them or feel sad. This thoughtful gesture fosters a sense of connection and comfort as they transition into the school environment.
ALL ABOUT US CLASS BOOK PAGE
Sometimes, I have students select a page for our favorite class book, All About Us!, during open house (or occasionally on the first day of school). At the activity table, I provide various colors of cardstock along with a directions page. Students can choose any color they like for their page, and I display my own page as an example to inspire them. This activity encourages creativity and gives students a fun way to contribute to our class community!
BULLETIN BOARDS
Bulletin boards are a fantastic way to enhance your open house and engage families. Create a vibrant welcome board that greets visitors and sets a positive tone for the event. Consider featuring a family bulletin board with important information, upcoming events, and community announcements to keep everyone informed. Additionally, showcase student work to celebrate their creativity and give families insight into classroom activities. A visual schedule of the daily routine can also help parents understand what their children will experience each day, fostering a sense of connection and excitement about the year ahead.
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL PREP
First Day of School Prep! After the open house, I ensure everything is ready for the first day of school, as it can be quite hectic. These FREE Cool Cat First Day of School Certificates are perfect for sending home with students on their first day. I print them on blue paper and fill in each student’s name, so they’re all set to go. You can grab them HERE!
Additionally, I print and cut out First Day of School Hats for students to color and wear on their first day. They can use markers, crayons, or paint sticks to decorate their hats. Alternatively, you could print them on colored paper for students to wear right away.
CONCLUSION
A successful open house is more than just showcasing your school; it’s about building relationships and creating a positive first impression. By incorporating engaging activities, providing valuable freebies, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, you can effectively attract new students and strengthen your school’s reputation.
Remember to tailor your open house to your specific audience and highlight your unique selling points. By doing so, you’ll create a memorable experience that leaves parents eager to enroll their children in your preschool, pre-K, or kindergarten program.
