Packing My School Bag: Drama Game for School Transitions

Minimum number of participants: 2

Age: 3+ (ideal for Junior Infants or children transitioning to a new group)

Resources needed: A real or imaginary school bag, optional classroom props (e.g., pencil case, book, toy)

Other benefits: Supports emotional literacy, imaginative thinking, and confidence-building

Instructions for the Teacher:

1. Gather the children in a circle. Place a bag (real or imaginary) in the centre.
2. Begin the story:
   “We’re all getting ready for a big day—our first day in a new class! Let’s pack our school bag together…”
3. Invite each child to take a turn pretending to place something in the bag. Encourage the use of props if available.
4. Prompt the children:
   • “What would you like to bring to school?”
   • “How do you feel about your first day?”
5. Help them name an emotion alongside their item:
   • “I’m putting in my crayons… and I’m feeling a little bit shy.”
   • “I’m adding my water bottle… and some excitement!”
6. After everyone has shared, reflect together:
   • “What could we pack that helps us feel brave?”
   • “What makes you feel happy in a new place?”
7.  This activity allows children to name emotions, hear that others feel the same, and build confidence through shared storytelling.

This is just one example from Drama Start: Exploring Emotions a collection of drama games, movement stories, and poems that help young children explore and express feelings through play.

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