The Unteachables Podcast

#156: Why forced icebreakers don’t build trust or community (and what does)


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In this episode, I’m giving you a front-row seat to how I break the ice with my classes without forcing kids (or me!) into anything awkward, loud, or fake.

Whether you’ve got a class full of students with complex needs, or just want something low-stakes and actually useful — this is the episode for you. I’m walking you through the exact back-to-school icebreakers I’ve used for years with huge success. These are tried-and-tested with mainstream AND complex classrooms — and they do more than just "get to know you." They start building classroom culture from day one.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why traditional icebreakers often flop, and what to do instead
  • How to balance fun, structure, and behaviour foundations from lesson one
  • My 3 go-to first-day activities (that double as classroom management tools)
  • What I do instead of “stand up and introduce yourself” 😬
  • How to make a class playlist that builds community (and teaches expectations!)
  • The icebreaker games I use with students who are not here for your card sort

Resources mentioned:

  • The Back to School Bootcamp: https://www.the-unteachables.com/backtoschoolbootcamp
  • Join the Behaviour Club: https://www.the-unteachables.com/tbc
  • The Back to School Mega Bundle: https://www.the-unteachables.com/offers/WC32PseW/checkout

Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:

  • Shop all resources
  • Join The Behaviour Club
  • My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management
  • The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp
  • Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'

Connect with me:

  • Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables
  • Check out my website


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The Unteachables PodcastBy Claire English

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