Back-to-School Icebreakers after Winter Break (for Middle School)

Back-to-School Icebreakers After Winter Break (for Middle School)

Kick off the semester with this 90-minute back-to-school or after-break icebreaker lesson plan designed just for middle schoolers! This ready-to-use SEL resource helps students reconnect, reflect, and reset while rebuilding classroom community and easing back into learning after time away.

What’s Included

• Complete 90-minute lesson plan with pacing guide
• Student worksheets (printable + optional digital format)
• Structured reflection prompts and journaling activities
• Goal-setting templates (academic, personal, and social)
• Class contract creation and community-building exercises
• “Letter to Future Me” activity
• Teacher answer key + reflection guide for follow-up support
• Differentiation tips for introverts, advanced learners, and students with difficult breaks

How It Works in the Classroom

Perfect for the first week back—whether it’s August or January!
Use this engaging SEL lesson during:

• Advisory, homeroom, or morning meeting
• Whole-group or small-group discussions
• Print or digital hybrid classrooms
• Counselor-led community circles or classroom reset days

Standards & Learning Goals

Students will:

• Reconnect with peers and rebuild community
• Reflect on personal growth and set meaningful goals
• Strengthen communication, collaboration, and empathy
• Transition from vacation mindset to learning mindset
• Establish positive habits and classroom culture for success

Why Teachers Love It

• No prep required—print and go!
• Developmentally appropriate for grades 6–8
• Fits perfectly into a single 90-minute block or can be split into shorter sessions
• Meaningful discussions and low-stakes sharing build trust and engagement
• Differentiation built-in for diverse needs and comfort levels

Help your middle schoolers start strong, whether it’s the first day of school or the first day back from break.

Reconnect, reflect, and rebuild community with this all-in-one SEL icebreaker bundle!