The first day of school is a big deal for our students – and Butterflies on the First Day of School by Annie Silvestro captures that mix of nerves and excitement so perfectly. If you’ve ever had a student tell you they have “butterflies” in their stomach, this book is a gentle, relatable way to show them they’re not alone. I love sharing it at the start of the year because it gets kids talking about their feelings in a safe, lighthearted way.
When I read this story aloud, my class always lights up at the illustrations and giggles at the idea of real butterflies fluttering out when you talk. It’s the perfect conversation starter for easing first-day jitters and reminding everyone that even grown-ups feel nervous sometimes!
Butterflies on the First Day of School Activity for Character Study
After reading, we focus on the main character, Rosie. What do we know about her? How does she change from the beginning to the end of the story? I have students draw Rosie at the start of the day and again at the end, then write a few words or sentences describing her feelings in each part. This visual helps them really see character growth.
Butterflies on the First Day of School Activity for Retelling
This book is wonderful for practicing sequencing skills. We create a simple “First – Then – Last” chart, either on paper or as a whole-group pocket chart activity. Students retell what happened at the start, in the middle, and at the end — using their own words. Some even act it out, “fluttering” across the carpet!
Butterflies on the First Day of School Activity for Feelings and SEL
We talk about what our own “butterflies” feel like. Are they in our stomach? Do they make our hands sweaty? I have students draw a self-portrait and add colorful butterflies around them to show their feelings. Then we brainstorm ways to calm our butterflies — deep breaths, talking to a friend, smiling at our teacher.
Butterflies on the First Day of School Activity for Making Text-to-Self Connections
This story naturally invites text-to-self connections. Students share a time they felt nervous (a first day, a performance, meeting new friends) and how they got through it. We compile responses into a class “Bye-Bye Butterflies” book.
Want all these activities ready to go?
I’ve put together a Butterflies on the First Day of School Book Companion that includes differentiated character study sheets, retelling cards, SEL prompts, and fun printable worksheets – all designed to keep your students engaged while you build a classroom community. It’s teacher-tested and kid-approved, so you can focus on connection instead of prep. You can grab it in my Teachers Pay Teachers store HERE and have your first-day plans ready in minutes!
Are you looking for the perfect way to kick off the school year with your favorite read-alouds? Visit my TPT resource with a bundle of activities to go along with beloved back-to-school books like. The activities in the bundle include crafts, writing prompts, and comprehension activities your students will love. Build classroom routines, friendships, and SEL from day one. Grab the bundle now and make your first week easy and meaningful!
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