Spring brings a new burst of energy into the classroom. Students are more independent, the days are longer and there is so much to explore: flowers, bugs, butterflies and Earth Day. It is the perfect time to bring hands-on activities back into your math and literacy blocks.
Here are spring classroom activities for kindergarten and first grade that keep learning fresh from March to May.
Spring math centers
Butterfly-themed games make spring math practice feel brand new. Matching games for addition and subtraction within 5 are perfect for building fact fluency in a center.
For students still building number sense, a count-and-match game pairs numerals with butterfly quantities.
Number order puzzles
Puzzles turn number order into a hands-on challenge students can tackle on their own. They are a great independent center for ordering numbers to 20.
Get students moving with write the room
Write the room is one of the best ways to get wiggly spring learners up and moving. Students hunt for vocabulary cards around the room and record each word on their sheet.
Measurement: taller, longer and shorter
Spring is a natural time to explore measurement. Students compare flowers, caterpillars and more to decide which is taller, longer or shorter.
Spring writing
Writing paper with a picture box and primary lines works for journals, story writing and science observations. Bug and insect themes are always a hit.
Earth Day activities
Earth Day in April is a great chance to talk about reducing, reusing and recycling. Sorting mats turn it into a simple, meaningful activity.
Pair it with Earth Day writing prompts for a complete lesson that doubles as a bulletin board display.
Keeping spring fever in check
- Plan movement on purpose. Write the room and scavenger hunts channel spring energy into learning.
- Use familiar formats. A new theme with an old routine keeps students focused.
- Head outside. Take measurement and writing activities to the playground on sunny days.
- Celebrate growth. Spring is a great time to look back at how much students have learned.
Find more for the season on the spring page or browse every math resource.
