Bringing New Years to the classroom!

It's back to the grind tomorrow but our celebrating isn't quite over yet....
I have plans to surprise my kiddos with a New Years celebration when they walk in the door tomorrow!

Yes....I was that teacher going nuts in the clearance section at Party City this evening....

I know what you are thinking....crazy, right?  Why would I begin the first minutes of the first day back from winter break with a celebration?  Well....it's 2012!  I want my students to experience the joys of a new year right off.  :)  Plus....I sure don't want to tighten the ropes and give my spill about rules and procedures for the 2nd semester and then go back into celebration mode at the end of the day.  I'd rather celebrate for half an hour or so and then get down to business!  :)

Of course I have a very structured to do list of what we will accomplish during our celebration.  I'll post details and pics tomorrow for you!

In the meantime...if you are looking for some wonderful and free activities for your classroom...I highly suggest the following:  (I will be doing a mixture of these activities as well!)


The First Grade Parade has a super cute 42 pg freebie for you here!
Views from Room 205 has an adorable freebie foldable for 2012 here!
I am in love with the many precious freebies from Crazy for First Grade!  Get them all here!
Ladybug's Teacher Files has an awesome graphic organizer posted for free here!
Don't miss Rockin' Teacher Material's free creative writing templates here!
Cooperative Learning 365 has a terrific freebie posted here!

I am so grateful to these ladies for sharing their wonderful ideas.  It meant that I didn't really have to create anything for this holiday! {THANK YOU!}

I know there are MANY more fabulous resources out there.  Feel free to comment below on your creative ideas for celebrating in the classroom.