Week 1: All About Me
Weekly Focus
Children explore their own identities, including their names, physical characteristics, likes and dislikes, and what makes them special and unique.
Week at a Glance
Daily themes for Week 1
- MondayMy Name is Special
- TuesdayWhat I Look Like
- WednesdayThings I Like
- ThursdayThings I Can Do
- FridayI Am Special
Teacher Tip
Learning Objectives
- Recognize and write their own name
- Identify and describe physical characteristics
- Express likes and dislikes
- Understand that everyone is unique and special
- Practice counting and number recognition 1-5
- Develop vocabulary related to self-identity
Key Vocabulary
Materials Needed
- Chart paper and markers
- Mirrors
- Art supplies (crayons, paper, scissors, glue)
- Name cards for each child
- Camera for documentation
- Books about self-identity
- Measuring tape/scale
- Paper plates, yarn, buttons (for face crafts)
Daily Plans
Monday: My Name is Special
Focus Question
What makes my name special?
Suggested Books
- "Chrysanthemum" by Kevin Henkes
- "The Name Jar" by Yangsook Choi
- "My Name Is Yoon" by Helen Recorvits
Morning Circle
Introduce the theme "All About Me." Discuss how everyone has a special name. Read the book "Chrysanthemum" by Kevin Henkes or a similar book about names.
Teacher Tip: As you read, pause to ask children how Chrysanthemum feels at different points in the story. Connect to how children feel about their own names.
Literacy Activity
Name recognition and writing practice. Children identify their name cards and practice writing their names using various materials (markers, crayons, finger paint, etc.).
Math Activity
Count the letters in each child's name. Create a graph showing how many letters are in each child's name. Identify which names have the most/least letters.
Extension: For advanced students, calculate the average number of letters in the class names, or sort names by first letter and create a bar graph.
Art Activity
Name art: Children decorate their names using various art materials. They can use fingerprints, stickers, or drawings that represent things they like.
Closing Circle
Share name art and discuss what makes each name special. Sing a name song that incorporates each child's name.
Reflection Questions:
- What did you learn about your name today?
- How does your name make you special?
- What did you notice about other children's names?
Featured Activities
All About Me Collage
Children create a personal collage using magazine cutouts, drawings, and photos that represent their interests, family, and favorite things.
Materials:
Magazines, scissors, glue, construction paper, crayons, family photos
Name Detective Game
Interactive game where children find their names among others, count letters, and identify beginning sounds while learning about name origins.
Materials:
Name cards, magnifying glasses, letter tiles, clipboards
"I Can" Talent Show
Children demonstrate their special abilities and talents in a supportive classroom setting, building confidence and celebrating diversity.
Materials:
Simple props, music player, "I Can" certificates, camera for documentation
Fingerprint Art Gallery
Explore uniqueness through fingerprint art, creating characters and designs while learning that everyone's fingerprints are different and special.
Materials:
Ink pads, paper, fine-tip markers, magnifying glasses, wet wipes
Resources
Books
- "The Name Jar" by Yangsook Choi
- "I Like Myself!" by Karen Beaumont
- "The Way I Am" by Lynda Barry
- "All About Me" by Catherine Bruzzone
- "My Name is Not Isabella" by Jennifer Fosberry
Printables
- Name tracing worksheets
- "All About Me" booklet template
- Self-portrait drawing frames
- "I Can" achievement certificates
- Favorite things sorting mats
Home Connection
- Family interview questions
- Name story sharing template
- Photo sharing guidelines
- Weekly vocabulary cards
- Extension activity suggestions