The first week of school is always full of excitement, energy, and (let’s be honest) a little nervousness too. This year, to help my second graders get to know their new school spaces and begin building a sense of community, we went on a very special adventure: a Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt.
The Gingerbread Kid Runs Away!
On Day 1, we discovered that our Gingerbread Kid had “escaped” from the classroom. The students’ task? Follow the trail of rhyming clues through the school to see if they could catch it. Along the way, they visited important places like the bathroom, computer lab, and more. Students learned where to go if they’re not feeling well, where they can check out a book, where the instruments live, and even where to find the people who help make our school run smoothly.
From my perspective as their teacher, the hunt gave me valuable insights too. I could see who felt confident in their reading abilities, who was able to comprehend the clues, and who needed a little extra support. It was also the perfect opportunity to set expectations about how we move through the school and to practice our procedures together.
Sweet Beginnings
Of course, the Gingerbread Kid eventually “returned” to class, but not before leaving behind a special plan. On Day 2, we would share a cookie treat together. To make sure everyone was included safely, I became that teacher who gave “homework” on the very first day—a short permission slip for families to sign. This slip not only covered allergy considerations, but also gave parents a peek into our first-week fun. To my delight, every slip was returned, and it became the perfect chance to introduce another important routine: how we handle homework in our class.
Why It Matters
The scavenger hunt wasn’t just about finding crumbs and catching a cookie—it was about creating shared memories right from the start. Students laughed, collaborated, and built confidence as they learned their way around the school. They also got to meet staff members they might not otherwise see in the first week, which helps them feel more connected to the whole school community.
When we finally sat down together with our cookies, it wasn’t just a snack. It was a moment of belonging.
Looking Ahead
These little traditions—playful stories, scavenger hunts, and shared treats—lay the groundwork for a year of learning together. They remind us that community is built not only in lessons and standards, but also in the joyful, unexpected adventures that we share along the way.
Try It in Your Classroom!
Want to run your own Gingerbread Hunt? I’ve put together a Canva file with:
- Editable clue cards 🍪
- Labels for your clue envelopes ✉️
- A cookie permission slip ✅
You can grab it here: [Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt Canva Link]
Feel free to copy, customize, and make it your own—your students will love the chase, and you’ll love how it builds community from day one.
Honor Learners 