There is nothing like wearing pajamas to school and drinking a hot cup of cocoa! Who doesn't love Polar Express Day at school? It has always been a day that I have looked forward to sharing with my students.

I now have scaled back from the days of my old school where we borrowed the trolley from the State Fair, decorated it with lights, and sang Christmas Carols around the town. My now-a-days Polar Express day, however, is just as fun!

I always ask my students to wear their pajamas on this special day. I love to begin the morning with this great musical video that summarizes the story of The Polar Express in a beautiful way.

After the story I read the original book by Chris Van Allsburg. Here is an affiliate link to the book. I use the beautiful keepsake jingle bell to keep with the book as my own special childhood Polar Express Bell. I actually did have a bell in my childhood that I found in the winter out by the milk barn; it was magical and I cherished it for years. This bell and book reminds me of those special memories. We then make our own jingle bell necklaces using the craft bells and a little yarn.

The remainder of the day that follows is filled with academic leaning in a fun, play-based way. My students love the games and activities included with my thematic unit.

This Kindergarten Polar Express Unit Includes the following games and activities.

The First Grade Polar Express version includes all of the above activities adjusted to a higher level for the first grade learner (or for higher level kinders).