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Classroom Management

January Classroom Expectations Reset for the New Year

Classroom Management January 1, 2026

Returning from winter break can feel a lot like the first week of school all over again. Routines are rusty, expectations are forgotten, and behaviors you thought were long mastered suddenly reappear. As teachers, we know students don’t forget on purpose—but after weeks away from school structure, they need time, reminders, and meaningful conversations to get back into learning mode.

photo of students raising their hand in a classroom

Instead of jumping straight into academics or repeating the same lectures about rules, I like to start the new year with intentional expectation review. Giving students space to talk, reflect, and reconnect with classroom routines helps reset the tone and rebuild consistency—without the frustration. To make this easier, I created an editable expectations review slideshow filled with discussion-based questions you can use during your first days back. It’s a flexible, low-prep way to revisit classroom norms, involve students in the conversation, and set everyone up for a smoother transition back after break. You can also turn these questions into a game using Connect 4 – more info below.

How to Use This Winter Break Expectations Review Slideshow

photo of introduction slide with penguin saying welcome back

This editable slideshow is designed to help you review classroom expectations and routines with students as you return from winter break in a low-pressure, discussion-based or game-like way.

Directions:

Open the slideshow in Google Slides
Project one slide at a time and read the expectation review question aloud.
Give students time to think, turn and talk, or share whole-group before revealing or discussing responses.
Use the slides as a guided conversation or turn it into a game (see below)—there are no “right” answers. The goal is to reset expectations and build shared understanding.
Customize the slides to fit your classroom:
- Edit wording to match your classroom language
- Delete questions you don’t need
- Add slides for specific routines, school-wide expectations, or grade-level needs
Use the slideshow over one day or spread it across multiple days during your first week back.

example slide from classroom expectations - where do you turn your work in

Teacher Tip:
Pair this slideshow with modeling, role-playing, or quick reflections (verbal or written) to help expectations really stick.

Reviewing Expectations Doesn’t Have to Be Boring – Turn It Into a Game

I got this idea from Candace (@themeaningfulmiddle on Instagram), and it’s quickly become one of my favorite ways to review content. Connect 4 is always a hit with students, and the best part is that it can be used with any subject—math, ELA, grammar, science, social studies, or even classroom expectations. The game gets competitive fast, and it’s fun to watch students collaborate, problem-solve, and use different strategies to try to win.

photo of teacher in classroom with kids raising their hands

How to Play:

Divide students into teams of 4–5.
Assign each team a different color of sticky notes to write their answers.
Prepare and project review questions ahead of time (any subject works!).
Teams work together to answer each question and place their sticky note on the board.
The goal is to connect four sticky notes horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Teams can also place notes strategically to block others.
When a team connects four, draw a line through them and award a point.
The team with the most points at the end wins!

This game can get a little loud—but in the best way. Students are highly engaged, working together, and reviewing content all at the same time, which makes it a win in my book.

Grab the Classroom Expectations Slideshow FREEBIE

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Click HERE to grab your free set of editable slides!

Looking for More Classroom Expectations and Management Ideas

Maximizing Learning Time – 4 Classroom Management Tips

3 Quick and Easy Whole Class Behavior Management Ideas

Transform Your Indoor Recess with These Exciting and Educational Ideas

Brain Breaks, Classroom Management, STEAM February 10, 2025

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The announcement of ‘indoor recess’ sends a collective groan through the teacher’s lounge. While we don’t experience snow days where I live, extreme heat or unexpected wildlife sightings often force us indoors. Regardless of the reason, indoor recess can be a challenge. To help you prepare, I’ve compiled a list of easy and engaging activities to keep your students active and entertained when the weather or circumstances require it.

Please note Amazon affiliate links are included in this post for your convenience. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Indoor Recess Idea #1 – GoNoodle

GoNoodle is an excellent choice for indoor recess. I highly recommend it because it effectively engages students with interactive videos that combine movement and learning. This makes it a fantastic way to help children expend energy and stay active while indoors. With a vast library of videos to choose from, GoNoodle offers a simple and enjoyable solution for keeping students entertained and engaged during unexpected indoor recess periods.

Indoor Recess Idea #2 – Beblox

Indoor recess creation with Beblox - a basket

Beblox are a fantastic and engaging tool that your students will adore. These interactive blocks foster collaboration among students, encouraging them to work together to solve problems and develop a growth mindset. By allowing students to creatively construct and build, Beblox ignite their imaginations and provide an ideal activity for keeping them engaged and entertained during indoor recess.

Indoor Recess Idea #3 – Magnetic Tiles

Magnetic tiles, available in an array of shapes, colors, and sizes, offer a fantastic way for students to unleash their creativity and imagination. These versatile building blocks captivate students of all ages and provide the perfect interactive activity for those rainy-day recesses, keeping them engaged and entertained while fostering their problem-solving and spatial reasoning skills.

Indoor Recess Idea #4 – Craft Area

Good old-fashioned arts and crafts remain a timeless and effective way to keep students engaged during indoor recess. Simply gather some basic supplies like paper, crayons, scissors, and glue, and let their creativity flow! Students can enjoy making cards, books, pictures, or anything their imaginations can conjure. This is also a fantastic opportunity to declutter your craft supplies by incorporating those leftover stickers, construction paper scraps, and other miscellaneous items you may have accumulated.

Indoor Recess Idea #5 – Storyline Online

Storyline Online is an exceptional website that features beloved children’s books read aloud by celebrated actors. The selection of books is truly impressive, and it’s always exciting to discover which celebrity will be the next guest reader. With a diverse library of titles, Storyline Online allows you to easily search for books by their reading time, making it simple to find the perfect length for your indoor recess period.

Indoor Recess Idea #6 – Mini Hashtag Blocks

These mini hashtag blocks from the Target Bullseye Playground are consistently a hit with my students. They love using them to creatively construct letters, 3D shapes, buildings, and more! Available in a variety of colors, these versatile blocks are not only engaging but also budget-friendly, costing only $1 for 72 pieces.

Indoor Recess Idea #7 – TomYou Building Blocks

The TomYou interlocking blocks are another fantastic option for engaging students during indoor recess. This set boasts 200 brightly colored blocks, providing endless possibilities for creative construction. Students can build shapes, vehicles, bracelets, letters, and much more, while simultaneously developing their fine motor skills and imagination.

Indoor Recess Idea #8 – Heads Up 7 Up

Heads Up 7 Up is a classic and engaging game perfect for inside recess. To play, select seven students to be “pickers.” The remaining students sit at their desks with their heads down and their thumbs raised. The teacher announces, “Heads down, thumbs up!” The seven pickers then quietly tap the thumb of one student each. Once all seven have chosen, the teacher calls out, “Heads up, 7 up!” The seven students whose thumbs were tapped stand up and try to guess which picker touched them. If a student guesses correctly, they switch places with the picker. If they guess incorrectly, they return to their seats.

Indoor Recess Idea #9 – Building Chips

PicassoTiles Building Chips provide an excellent platform for creative expression during indoor recess. These versatile building blocks allow students to work independently, in pairs, or in small groups to construct anything their imaginations can conjure. The tiles easily click together, offering endless possibilities for building and fostering collaboration while providing a refreshing screen-free activity.

Indoor Recess Idea #10 – Playdoh

Play-Doh is a timeless favorite among children, and inside recess provides the perfect opportunity to unleash their creativity. With its endless possibilities, Play-Doh offers a simple yet engaging activity that can keep students entertained for hours. From molding basic shapes to creating intricate masterpieces, the versatility of Play-Doh, combined with the array of fun tools available, makes it an ideal choice for indoor recess.

I hope these ideas spark your creativity and help you make the most of indoor recess. Remember, the goal is to keep students engaged and having fun, even when the weather or circumstances keep us indoors. So, gather your materials, get those creative juices flowing, and enjoy some unexpected indoor playtime!

Best Teacher Supplies from 2024: Enhance Your Classroom Setup

Classroom Management, Classroom Organization, Classroom Set-Up December 23, 2024

As teachers, we’re always on the hunt for teacher supplies and resources that make teaching more effective, efficient, and engaging. Whether it’s a game-changing organizing tool or a simple supply that sparks joy, the right items can transform your classroom into a haven for both learning and creativity.

As we step into 2025, I’ve pull together a list of my top five must-have classroom items that I purchased this year. I think every teacher should consider adding these items to their toolkit. These products aren’t just about function—they’re about making our teaching lives a little easier and our students’ experiences even more memorable. From the latest tech to classic favorites, this list has something for every educator.

Let’s dive in and discover the game-changing items that could redefine your classroom this year!

Please note Amazon affiliate links are included in this post for your convenience. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Teacher Supply #1 – AFMAT Pencil Sharpener

picture of pencil sharpener and cup of sharpened pencils

The AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener is hands down the best pencil sharpener I’ve ever owned as a teacher. Designed to prevent students from over-sharpening and breaking their pencils, this tool saves time and reduces frustration for everyone. It ensures a perfect point every time, making it ideal for both colored pencils and standard pencils.

Built to handle heavy use in a classroom setting, this sharpener is durable, reliable, and quiet enough not to disrupt your lessons. Say goodbye to broken pencil tips and messy sharpening sessions! Click here to invest in this essential classroom tool today.

Teacher Supply #2 – GameNote Rotating Supplies Organizer

Picture of lazy susan classroom supplies organizer

The Gamenote Rotating Art Supply Organizer is an absolute game-changer for keeping your classroom tidy and efficient. This versatile lazy Susan organizer features multiple compartments perfect for storing markers, crayons, scissors, and other classroom supplies, all within easy reach. Its ability to rotate makes it easy for students to grab what they need without disrupting the flow of a lesson.

Durable and designed with vibrant colors, it’s not only functional but also adds a cheerful touch to your classroom setup. Click here to check it out and add it to your classroom today! I use mine on my small group table to have teacher and classroom supplies super handy!

Teacher Supply #3 – Table Spots

Picture of three table spots on a teacher's small group table

The Original Teacher’s Table Spots are a lifesaver for small group work and collaborative learning. These colorful and durable dry-erase spots stick directly to table surfaces, providing a versatile workspace where students can write, draw, and brainstorm without needing individual whiteboards. Perfect for classrooms without whiteboard tables, they turn any flat surface into a creative hub.

Not only are they easy to clean and reuse, but their vibrant colors help organize group activities and assignments effortlessly. Whether you’re facilitating a math workshop or a reading group, these table spots keep your lessons interactive and your classroom engaging. Click here to explore this must-have tool for your teaching toolkit!

Teacher Supply #4 – Amazon Basics Felt Tip Marker Pens

photo of different colored amazon felt tip pens

If you love flair pens but are looking for a more cost-effective option, you need to check out the Amazon Basics Felt Tip Marker Pens. These pens deliver smooth writing and vibrant colors —all at a fraction of the price of traditional flair pens. They’re perfect for grading papers, jotting notes, or adding a pop of color to your lesson plans.

With a comfortable grip, they’re ideal for teachers who write a lot throughout the day. These pens strike the perfect balance between quality and affordability. Click here to stock up on these classroom must-haves today!

Teacher Supply #5 – Adhesive White Board Roll

photo of adhesive white board roll on a classroom door with a math problem solved on it

For teachers looking to maximize vertical space in their classrooms, the adhesive whiteboard roll is an incredible addition. This versatile tool allows you to create multiple whiteboard surfaces around the room, making it perfect for implementing strategies like Building Thinking Classrooms. Students can easily collaborate, brainstorm, and solve problems in groups using these vertical spaces.

The roll is easy to cut to size and adheres securely to walls or other surfaces, turning any area into a writable workspace. Plus, it’s a cost-effective way to expand your whiteboard space without investing in large, bulky boards. Click here to explore this flexible and innovative classroom solution!

Each of these classroom supplies has the potential to simplify your teaching routine. Whether you’re looking for ways to organize, inspire creativity, or enhance collaboration, these tools have you covered. Start 2025 off right by incorporating these game-changing teacher supplies into your classroom!

For more info…

Top 10 Classroom Organization Tools

5 Fidgets for the Classroom

Chapter Book Ideas for Early Readers

5 Best Fidgets for the Classroom

Classroom Management March 25, 2024

Blog header for 5 Best Fidgets for the Classroom

Teachers – do some of your students have difficulty sitting still especially during lessons and read aloud? Today I’m sharing five fidgets for the classroom.

I have noticed as the years have gone by, more and more students are struggling with inattentiveness. I’ve also noticed that the use of a quiet fidget can sometimes help keep students focused on the lesson while also not distracting anyone around them. And, I’ll be completely honest – I was never a huge fan of fidgets. I was worried they would be a distraction and cause more issues. However, for some of my students – fidgets have been very helpful!

See my top 5 fidgets for the classroom below. This may contain affiliate links for your convenience.

Fidgets for the Classroom – Idea #1 – Wiki Stixs

Words Wiki Stix with photo of different colored Wiki Stix - fidgets for the classroom.

Wiki Stixs are great for many reasons, but they also make a very quiet and small fidget. Students have enjoyed using these because they can twist them, turn them into shapes, and re-use them again and again. I, as a teacher, like Wiki Stixs because they are quiet and small so they aren’t super disruptive to everyone else.

Fidgets for the Classroom – Idea #2 – Sensipod Desk Fidget from Bouncy Bands

This tool from Bouncy Bands is great for tables and desks, but can also be brought down the carpet or to a small group table. For students who like sensory input with different textures – this fidget has them all. Again it’s super quiet, but I also like that it offers 4 different textures to meet different student’s needs.

Fidgets for the Classroom – Idea #3 – Playdoh

Words playdough with photo of child's hands by multiple balls of playdough.

Playdoh is another quiet and easy item to use as a fidget in the classroom (as long as you go over ground rules of not smushing it into the carpet – learn from me). Students can squish it, roll it, turn it into things, etc. It’s not too expensive and can be used in a variety of spots in the classroom.

Fidgets for the Classroom – Idea #4 – Wacky Tracks Snap and Click Fidget Toys

Photo of colorful snap and click fidgets. Fidgets for the classroom.

My students absolutely love the snap and click fidgets! They typically are the first fidgets gone from the container each day. They have fun colors, can be changed into different shapes, and can be taken apart and snapped back together. They are also quiet, which again makes it a great tool and option for the classroom.

Fidgets for the Classroom – Idea #5 – Boxgear Fidgets

This fidget from Boxgear is another favorite in my classroom! This fidget can be twisted, pulled apart, put back together, etc! It’s quiet and it has many different ways you can pull it apart – so the novelty does not wear off. It comes in a 6 pack so you have a variety of color choicess for this awesome classroom fidget option.

If you’re interested in some more management ideas, be sure to check out…

Maximizing Learning Time – 4 Classroom Management Tips

3 Quick and Easy Whole Class Behavior Management Tools

Maximizing Learning Time: How These 4 Classroom Management Ideas Can Help

Classroom Management June 19, 2023

Blog header for Maximizing Learning Time: How These 4 Classroom Management Ideas Can Help - photo of students in line

Every teacher’s goal is to maximize learning time as much as possible! Classroom management plays a huge role in being able to do that. Today I’m going to share with you 4 easy ideas to make classroom management a breeze!

Quiet Game

This first management tool is a game-changer for hallway behavior and waiting for a special’s class! To play the quiet game, the students need to be quiet, facing forward, and have their hands to themselves. I then walk up and down the line and find the student who is being the best example of a student standing in line. I tap them on the shoulder and then they get to pick the next student who is standing perfectly in line. This continues on and on until the special’s teacher is ready for them.

Wireless Doorbell

This may contain affiliate links for your convenience.

I know I’m not the only person to discuss and recommend the wireless doorbell, but this thing is amazing!

In the past I’ve always used the clapping patterns or 1-2-3 eyes on me as a way to get student’s attention. And, while yes that will work it sometimes has to be repeated many times. The wireless doorbell has changed all of that! My doorbell has multiple songs and chimes and I chose a simple chime that sounded like the end of intermission at a play. This thing works like a charm! My students hadn’t seen it before so it was a novelty item at first, but it gets their attention! The nice thing is that I can change the sound or song so that it’s always fresh and always a bit of a novelty.

I use the doorbell as a way to get them to freeze and give me their attention. I sound the doorbell when they need to rotate during math rotations. I use the doorbell as a sign to clean up. This thing works and it’s saved my voice and frustration level. Now there are times when they are a little crazy and I have to ring it a second time, but I do not have to raise my voice! The doorbell does it for me! Click HERE to grab your own doorbell from Amazon.

Reward System

I love using brag tags as an individual reward system, but also like to implement a whole class system too. One of my favorites and easiest to implements is the Tally Chart.

Tally charts or place value (with tens and ones) is a great way to manage whole class behavior. For the tally chart, I pick a number and students have to work to earn that many tallies. I typically start with 25 and then once they earn that we go for 50, 75, 100, etc.

I also have a few other behavior option that you can find in my blog post >>> HERE.

Class Contract

Instead of the teacher created rules, in my class we create a class contract. I saw this idea at a training a few years ago and loved it!

Our class contract is an agreement of how we want to treat each other and how we want to act in our classroom. It is completely student driven and helps with buy in! After creating it together, everyone in the class signs it agreeing to follow the expectations. I then hang it on the wall and refer back to it often throughout the year.

For more classroom management tips, click HERE.

Pin image for Maximizing Learning Time: How These 4 Classroom Management Ideas Can Help - photo of students in line

3 Quick and Easy Whole Class Behavior Management Ideas

Behavior System, Classroom Management January 9, 2023

Whole Class Behavior management Ideas- photo of tally chart

Blog Header for Whole Class Behavior Management Ideas

Today I’m going to share with you 3 quick and easy whole class behavior management ideas! Behavior management is a topic that is at the forefront of every teacher’s mind. Behavior systems can make or break your classroom and it’s important to change things up and keep things fresh.

Ways the Class Can Earn the Rewards

For all the systems listed below, students can earn rewards as a class for a variety of reasons. The biggest thing I stress is that we are working together as a class to earn the rewards together. It needs to be ALL of us – not just some of us. (Depending on your class and behavior situations, you might need to adjust expectations).

Here are a few ways they earn a point, letter, or sticky note removed…

Class compliment
Walking quietly in the hall
Working quietly
Working well together during a math game or group activity
Participation in class discussions
Lining up quickly
Classroom picked up
Desks organized and neat

Behavior Management Idea #1 – Tally Chart

Photo of tally chart used for whole class behavior management

Behavior Management Idea #2 – Earning Letters

Photo of Earning Letters Behavior Management Strategy

I tend to use the “Earning Letters” classroom management strategy mid-year during the 2nd and 3rd quarter. I put up blank lines on the white board for how many letters are in the word. For this whole class behavior management strategy, I will use the word of the prize they are trying to earn. So if they are trying to earn a READING PARTY – I will put up 12 blank lines. Students can earn a letter for any of the ideas listed above.

Behavior Management Idea #3 – Sticky Note Chart

I got this idea a few years ago on Instagram from Joanne at Head Over Heels for Teaching. Each time the whole class accomplishes one of the positive behaviors, a sticky note comes off. At the end, they get to figure out what their mystery reward is and earn it.

Reward Ideas

I like to keep rewards simple and easy to do. Rewards will change depending on what they had to do to earn them. For example, earning 25 tallies is different from working towards 100 tallies. Here are a few rewards I have used in the past with these systems…

Food items (cookies, popsicles, ice cream sandwich, etc.)
Reading party – students can bring in a blanket, stuffed animal, and/or pillow for the reading party
Game time – students can bring in board or card games from home to play with their friends in class
Lunch in the classroom
Extra recess time

Final thought…

Keep in mind it is good to change up your incentives and management systems throughout the year. Students need novelty and things need to be kept fresh to keep their interest. I tend to cycle through these 3 behavior management systems above each school year.

For more info…

Click HERE to read my blog post with more Classroom Management Tips.

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Computer Log-In Tip

Classroom Management, Technology June 24, 2022

Blog Header Image for Computer Log-In Tip

Does it drive you crazy when you get asked, “Teacher – what’s my computer log-in for….?” If you answered yes, you are not alone! Computer log-ins are even frustrating for adults. Every log-in requires different things and it can be hard to keep them straight. So I have two computer log-in card ideas to share with you today to help save your sanity in the classroom!

Computer Log-In Card #1

I used this version a few years ago. I started out by printing out labels for each program we have. That year we had AR, MobyMax, Pearson Realize, and Spelling City. I have one page of address labels per app. I label it with the title of the app and leave a blank spot by username and password.

Then, I fill in the eight million different user names and passwords on the labels and stick them to the cards with the student’s name label on it. Voila- easy access.

I hang it by the front white board and students can refer to it as needed, take it to their seats, etc. It has saved me a lot of time and makes it easier for kids to be more independent with logging in to the computer program.

Photo of computer log-in cards hanging on classroom wall.

Photo of computer log-in cards with labels for each program.

Computer Log-In Card #2

This card version my teammate created and we both used it this year. We created a template in PowerPoint with each program and then a spot for username and password. We then duplicated the page so we could type in the information for each student. We fit 4 cards to a page so we had multiple copies. One copy was taped inside their supply box for school, one copy was sent home for homework, one was kept in their take-home folder, and I kept the final one.

Hope this tip helps make your log-in life at school a little easier!

Building Student Independence Tip

Classroom Management February 2, 2021

Blog header for Building Student Independence. Picture of To Do list with 3 items.

Real-Life….

One thing that drives me crazy is when a student comes up to me after they turn an assignment in and they say “I’m done – what do I do now?” We want kids to know what do and be independent enough to do it without needing to check in with the teacher.

Teacher Goal – Building Students Independence

One of our goals no matter which grade you teach is to help students become more independent throughout the school year. Obviously this will look differently in each grade level, but our goal is for students to be more independent leaving the grade than they were when they started.

One tip I have for this is To Do Lists. Part of students being more independent is being able to complete multiple tasks/multi-step directions. The way I do this is through checklists/to do lists. On the board or using the projector, I will put a to do list up of what the kids are supposed to do. Here are a few examples:

Example #1

Turn in telling time page.
Reflex math on Chrome Books.

Example #2

Turn in cause and effect page.
Read at your seat

Example #3

Finish your small moments story.
Re-read it to check for capitals and end marks.
Sketch your pictures for your story.
Get a new booklet to start a new story.

These lists help keep kids on track and gain independence. I go over this to do list prior to sending kids to their seats so they know what the tasks are. By having it up and visible students can refer back to it as needed. For younger students who are learning to read you could still put the words, but also add picture clues to help them with the tasks.

Have you used to do lists with your class before? Let me know below…

Long Pin for Building Student Independence. Picture of To Do list with 3 items.

Ways to Promote Social Emotional Learning

Classroom Management, Back to School July 13, 2020

Blog Header for Blog Post Ways to Promote Social Emotional Learning. Photo of 2 boys and 2 girls at school.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is an important part of every school day. Now more than ever with distance learning and COVID, SEL will need to be a big focus when we go back into school in person and/or digitally. SEL is important for every day classroom interactions and beyond. These life skills that students can learn will help set them up to be successful in future life situations.

Importance of SEL

SEL is important for so many reasons, but below I’ve picked some of the top ones I see in the classroom.

Teaches life skills
Promotes positive self-esteem
Teaches teamwork
Helps kids express feelings and needs
Helps students understand others
Gives students the opportunity to learn about self-control

As teachers it’s important that SEL is not just a passing thought, but something that we integrate into our classroom everyday. I’ve come up with 6 easy ways to incorporate SEL into your classroom.

Social Emotional Books

Picture of the book - What Should Danny Do? School Days

Books are always a great way to teach life skills. Students can identify with characters and things they are going through. Reading SEL stories can also open up an opportunity for great classroom discussions about friendship, self-control, emotions, etc. If you are looking for some SEL books, check out my list of 10 Must-Have SEL Books for the Classroom>>> HERE.

Building Classroom Community

Classroom community is another way to promote social emotional learning in your classroom. The first few weeks of school teachers work tirelessly to help the students get to know one another and to build up that classroom community. Your class is like a family and it takes time and effort to make that happen.

Getting to know you activities at the beginning of the year is one way to build community. One activity I love doing is having the kids interview each other. This is a great way for them to get to know a classmate they didn’t know before. If you are interested in an interview page already created and more get to know you activities, check out my Getting to Know You Back to School Writing Activities.

Team building activities are another great way to build classroom community. I know this year things will look different with COVID, but I love doing table team competitions. In the past, we’ve done who can build the tallest tower, who can make the largest paper chain, and who can balance the most dice on a popsicle stick. These competitions are silly and meant to be fun. They are also a great way for the kids to feel more comfortable.

Morning Meeting

I could talk about Morning Meeting all day long! If you know me, you know Morning Meeting is one of my favorite parts of the school day. While it incorporates academics, Morning Meeting is also a great chance to promote Social Emotional Learning skills. This is a great time to read SEL books, have discussions during share, and work on activities where students can get to know each other better. If you are interested in learning more about Morning Meeting, click HERE.

Scenarios/Discussions

Picture of scenario card with a clipart of a boy

Kids do not come out of the womb knowing how to deal with social and emotional situations. They often learn through experiences. Through these experiences, they sometimes make a great choice when handling a situation, but they also sometimes don’t know what to do and might not make the best choice.

While reading SEL stories, we tend to discuss the scenarios of what has happened. This gives us a chance to talk about the situation and how the character handled it. Questions I often ask include: Did they make a good choice?, Could they have handled it differently?, What could they do next time? These questions and discussions expose kids to every day situations that they might face some day. They also provide them with background knowledge, which might help them know how to handle these situations.

I just created a brand new resource to help with these discussions. In this resource, you will find 24 different every day child scenarios that you can project on the board. As you read through the scenarios and questions, you and your class can discuss the situation and how to handle it. You can find this SEL Discussion Cards >>> HERE.

Helping Kids Process Situations

As I mentioned in the previous paragraph, kids often do not know how to handle social and emotional sitituations when they happen. Part of our jobs as teachers is to help them. As situations arise in the classroom, I always try to take time to talk with the individuals involved and help them work through the situation. Now I know it’s not always possible to do it right there in the moment, but try to find some time that day to help the kid/s with how to handle what happened.

Calm Down Area

Picture of Safe Place Cards for ideas to help when students are angry.

So a Calm Down Area is a safe space in your classroom for students to go and take a minute for themselves. It’s almost like the child is putting themselves in time out. However, it is not meant to be a punishment. It’s meant to be a space for the child to take a break, calm down, and reflect. Your calm down area can be called many things- safe space, Zen Zone, Reflection Pod, etc.

At the beginning of the year, make sure you introduce it to your class and explain what it is for. You can also model how to use it. I’ve seen calm down areas really help students who are working on self-control. It can honestly be helpful for anyone – we all need a break sometimes!

Helpful Links

I hope you found these SEL ideas helpful! Please click on the links below for more information on what I posted above.

Long Pin for Blog Post Ways to Promote Social Emotional Learning. Photo of 2 boys and 2 girls at school.

Teacher Tip – Wireless Doorbell

Classroom Management February 20, 2018

The Best Teacher Invention…

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience.

I know I’m not the only person to discuss and recommend the wireless doorbell, but this thing is amazing!

In the past I’ve always used the clapping patterns or 1-2-3 eyes on me as a way to get student’s attention. And, while yes that will work it sometimes has to be repeated many times. This past summer I purchased a wireless doorbell to use in my classroom after seeing some teachers on Instagram recommending it. My doorbell has multiple songs and chimes and I chose a simple chime that sounded like the end of intermission at a play. This thing works like a charm! My students hadn’t seen it before so it was a novelty item at first, but it gets their attention! The nice thing is that I can change the sound or song so that it’s always fresh and always a bit of a novelty. (Our classroom Elf even changed the tune to Jingle Bells during the holiday season.)

Anyways – random little post today, but I’ve been meaning to share my love for this doorbell with you. If you are interested in the one I purchased it was around $15 and I’ll post the link below.

SadoTech Doorbell on Amazon

Hi everyone! My name is Jordan and I'm a 2nd grade teacher in Mesa, AZ. I've also taught first and third grade. This is my 17th year teaching and I'm excited to use my blog to share activities, ideas, tips, and more with you!