Class promise poster: a 20-minute preschool citizenship activity
What it is: a first citizenship activity for preschool. The class talks about what makes a good day together, agrees on three simple promises and signs the poster with handprints. Students learn that a group makes rules to help everyone.
Time: about 20 minutes. Grade: Pre-K (ages 4 to 5).
Materials: chart paper, markers, washable paint on a paper plate, wipes and a sink nearby.
- Ask: "What makes a happy day in our class?" Write every idea, adding a quick drawing next to each.
- Group similar ideas together, such as gentle hands, taking turns and helping clean up.
- Choose three promises together. Word them as things to do: "We use gentle hands."
- Act out each promise for a moment so everyone sees what it looks like.
- Each student signs the poster with a painted handprint, and you write their name next to it.
- Read the poster aloud every morning for the first week.
Safety: use washable paint and wash hands right after. Offer a crayon tracing of the hand to students who do not like the feel of paint.
Differentiation: students who need support can show a promise with a gesture. Students who are ready can say why the promise helps. English learners can learn each promise with a matching hand sign.
Quick check: say a short situation, such as "Two friends want the same truck." Ask a student which promise helps.
For more ideas at this grade, browse the other free activities on the Hub.
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About this resource
- Shared by
- @UpOnlyLearning · Curriculum team
- Posted
- Oct 30, 2026
- Type
- Lesson plan
- Grade
- Grades K–2
- Subject
- Social studies
- Language
- English
- License
- Free for classroom, co-op and tutoring use. Please don't resell.