![](https://www.ebooks4ukrkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CH-FUN-ANIMATION-8.gif)
The first day of school with clever hedgehog
Did you know that the first day of school in Ukraine is called Knowledge Day? The school year starts in all Ukrainian schools on Knowledge Day on September 1!
The First Day of School is very exciting for all children, especially, for kids who start Kindergarten and Grade 1! Don’t worry, Clever Hedgehog will be with you, and help you get ready for school!
Clever Hedgehog’s friends asked him some questions about school.
You can become a Clever Hedgehog’s Pen Pal and write a letter to his email: storieswithcleverhedgehog@gmail.com and share your questions, a story, or a picture for a website.
Question 1: Why Should Children Go To School?
🏫 School is a place where you get to learn new things, make friends, and discover exciting adventures every day! In school, you learn how to read, write, count, think creatively, solve problems, share ideas, and work together with others. There are so many things you will learn in your school. New books 📚, friends, and teachers will be there to greet you!
To answer this question, Clever Hedgehog will tell you one story about school 👇
![Clever Hedgehog and His Expectations for School](https://www.ebooks4ukrkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Firefly-kindergarten-kids-going-to-school-46873-copy-1-1024x796.jpg)
Clever Hedgehog and His Expectations for School
Illustrations: Olga Zhestkova
In the forest where the animals lived, there had never been a school 🏫. But one day, a wise Owl from a faraway forest visited them and said, “It’s time to learn! I will teach you many things at school!” Hearing this, Clever Hedgehog was very happy. He had always dreamed of learning more about the world around him and becoming as wise as the Owl.
“I want to learn to count acorns and mushrooms, so I’ll know how many I need for the winter,” thought Clever Hedgehog.
![Clever Hedgehog and His Expectations for School](https://www.ebooks4ukrkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Firefly-animals-in-the-forest-school-31705-copy.jpg)
“I want to learn the different languages of birds and animals, so I can communicate with all the animals,” Clever Hedgehog pondered.
![Clever Hedgehog and His Expectations for School](https://www.ebooks4ukrkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Clever-Hedgehog-and-His-Expectations-for-School-.jpg)
“I want to read all the forest fairy tales!” Clever Hedgehog continued to dream.
“I want to help animals find their way through the forest using a map I drawn myself.
Now Clever Hedgehog was eagerly waiting for his first day of school to begin his exciting journey into the world of knowledge!
What about you, my little reader, WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FROM SCHOOL?
A school is where your imagination can take flight and your dreams can grow. Be excited, be curious, and get ready for a wonderful year of learning!
Question 2: What do you need to take to school?
Students usually don’t need a lot of things in school. You will need only special items in school. So what should we put in the school backpack?
Handy Checklist for Kids Getting Ready for School
1. Backpack 🎒: Make sure your backpack is clean, comfortable, and ready to use.
2. Notebooks and textbooks 📚: Pack all the necessary notebooks, tablets or laptops with chargers, textbooks, and additional materials for the first day.
3. Pencil Case ✏️: Ensure you have all the essential stationery: pencils and pens, colored pencils or markers, a pencil sharpener and an eraser, and a ruler.
4. Clothes and Shoes 👚: Prepare your school uniform or other clothing for school, along with comfortable shoes.
5. Water Bottle 🥤: It’s always a good idea to have a water bottle with you to stay hydrated.
6. Lunchbox 🍌: prepare a lunchbox with healthy snacks.
7. Face Mask 😷: If your school requires wearing masks, don’t forget to bring one.
8. Smile 😊: Don’t forget your smile and a positive attitude for the first day of school!
Question 3: How To Introduce Myself To The New Classmates?
On the first day of school, you’ll meet your new teacher and classmates. They’ll be excited to get to know you! Be ready to introduce yourself and share your name and something interesting about you. Maybe tell them your favorite hobby or what you like to do for fun. It’s a great chance to make new friends and start the year with a smile!
Tips for Telling New Classmates About Yourself
1. Be Brave: Remember, everyone is probably just as curious to know about you as you are about them.
2. Start Simple: Start by saying your name, what you like to do for fun, and maybe your favorite book or game.
3. Ask Questions: Show interest in your new friends by asking them about their hobbies or favorite subjects.
4. Smile: A friendly smile can make a great first impression and help you feel more comfortable.
![Help your child adapt to the new environment in school - TIPS FOR PARENTS](https://www.ebooks4ukrkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/How-to-introduce-yourself-to-New-Classmates.jpg)
Question 4: How to Get to School Safely?
1. Walk on the Sidewalk: Always use the sidewalk or pedestrian paths, and if there isn’t one, walk on the side facing traffic.
2. Cross Safely: Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street, and always use crosswalks or traffic signals.
3. Listen to Adults: Follow instructions from crossing guards or school staff.
4. Stay Visible: If it’s still dark in the morning, wear bright or reflective clothing so drivers can see you easily.
5. Stay Together: If possible, walk to school with a friend or a group of kids. There’s safety in numbers!
6. Never talk to strangers on your way to school.
![Help your child adapt to the new environment in school - TIPS FOR PARENTS](https://www.ebooks4ukrkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/How-to-Get-to-School-Safely.jpg)
Can you guess these riddles about school?
I am a place where you can learn and grow,
I am a place where knowledge starts to flow.
I have many rooms and many halls,
And many students hear my calls.
What am I?
School
I am small and I am usually white.
You can take away your pencil mark with me.
I am ...........
An eraser
You see me in a classroom.
You can sit by me.
You can write on me.
I am ........
A desk
LET’S READ A BOOK
FUN ACTIVITIES WITH CLEVER HEDGEHOG
Can You Solve This Jigsaw Puzzle?
TAGS: school readiness, get ready for school, starting a kindergarten, 1 grade, kindergarten, back to school, introduce yourself to classmates, why children go to school, pen pals, school supplies