Our Class is a Family Activities: 5 No-Prep Ideas to Build Classroom Community

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Creating a strong classroom community starts on day one—and that’s exactly why I love Our Class is a Family by Shannon Olsen. Whether you read it aloud or simply focus on its message, the heart of this story reminds students that your classroom is a place where they’re safe, supported, and celebrated.

In this post, I’m sharing five no-prep, no-materials-required activities you can use right away to reinforce these themes. You’ll also find easy differentiation ideas and a fun student craft that works beautifully with or without the book.

Quick Recap: Our Class is a Family

If you’re new to the book, it’s a beautifully illustrated story that helps students understand the value of kindness, teamwork, and treating classmates like family. It's especially powerful for younger grades (K–3), special education, ESL, or even counseling sessions. You can grab a copy here: Our Class is a Family on Amazon 

Click HERE for lots more resources for this book, including bracelets.

5 No-Prep Activities to Build Classroom Community

Each of these activities requires no copies, no scissors, and no materials other than your whiteboard or students' voices. They're perfect for your first week back!

1. "If Our Class Were a Family..." Circle Share

Ask: “If our class were a family, what would that mean to you?”

• Low: Students say one word (e.g., “nice,” “safe,” “kind”).
• Medium: Students finish the sentence: “A class family means…”
• High: Students give an example: “Last year, our class felt like a family when…”

Pro Tip: Write student answers on the board to start building a “Classroom Family Anchor Chart.”

2. Silent Signal Shout-Outs

Instead of talking, students give a silent signal (thumbs up, heart hands, smile) when a classmate says something kind or helpful.

• Low: Model one silent gesture and have the class copy it.
• Medium: Students choose from 2–3 signals.
• High: Let students create their own unique class “shout-out” signals.

This reinforces active listening, empathy, and positive reinforcement—all without talking over others.

3. "That’s Me!" Stand and Sit

Call out statements like:

• “I like pizza.” 
• “I speak more than one language.” 
• “I like to help others.” 

If it applies, students stand (or give a silent thumbs up). Sit back down after each statement.

• Low: Only use simple, one-step directions.
• Medium: Invite students to suggest the next sentence.
• High: Students explain why a statement describes them.

Bonus: It builds confidence and helps classmates discover common interests!

4. "Family Rules vs. Class Rules" Brainstorm

Ask: “What rules do you follow at home? How are those similar to school?”

Make two columns on the board: Family Rules and Class Rules.

• Low: Students raise hands to contribute ideas.
• Medium: Students explain the why behind each rule.
• High: Students suggest how these rules help keep everyone safe and respected.

This naturally transitions into your classroom expectations in a meaningful way.

5. "I Belong Here Because…" Reflection Prompt

Wrap up your community-building time by asking:

“What makes you feel like you belong in our class?”

• Low: Students choose from examples you list aloud.
• Medium: Write one sentence: “I belong here because…”
• High: Create a short journal reflection or share aloud with a partner.

Bonus Companion Craft: All About Our Classroom Family 

To extend these conversations with a creative project, try this fun printable craft. Students respond to short prompts about their family, classmates, teacher, and class expectations. It’s perfect for displaying during Open House or the first month of school.

👉 Download the Our Class is a Family Craftivity here on TPT

Whether you’ve read the book or not, this activity helps students reflect on their role in creating a kind, respectful classroom where everyone belongs.

Final Thought:

You don’t need fancy supplies or a perfect plan to create a classroom community that feels like family. A few thoughtful questions and a safe space to share go a long way.

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Shelly Anton is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. ** This means there are Amazon affiliate links in these blog posts. This does not mean you pay a dime more when you purchase a product through the link. It just means I am trying to save you valuable teacher time by making it easier for you to find great resources for your students, and I earn a few cents for my research and time. Thank you for all you do for kids!