The Greatest Teacher Hacks for Classroom Organization
Teaching kindergarten means wearing many hats and juggling a million things at once. Kinder kiddos are full of energy and enthusiasm, making it essential for teachers to have a few tricks up their sleeves. That’s where classroom organization comes in play.
Why is classroom organization so important in a classroom? Classroom organization helps to save you time, reduces stress, and creates a more conducive learning environment for your students.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the greatest teacher hacks for classroom organization that will help you navigate the daily adventures of teaching.
The Greatest Teacher Hacks for Classroom Organization
1. Plastic Bag Paint Palettes
Messy paint projects are a common theme in the kindergarten classroom. But you can have the fun without the mess! To keep things tidy, use small resealable plastic bags inside your paint jars. Once you’re done, throw out the bags and voila! Clean paint jars!
2. Sub Tub for Emergencies
Gone are the days of last minute sub plans! A well-organized sub tub is a lifesaver for unexpected teacher absences. Include emergency sub plans, ready-to-go activities, and a class roster (including any student allergies). This ensures that the sub can smoothly step into your role without disruptions to your students’ learning.
3. Stuffed Animal Book Buddies
To encourage a love for reading, provide students with stuffed animals as reading companions. These “book buddies” can sit with students during independent reading time, making it a cozy and enjoyable experience. Grab a tub of any kind to hold these book buddies and label the tub to add the finishing touch.
4. Lost and Found Bin
Designate a bin in your classroom as the “I’m Lost!” bin. This is where students can place items they find without interrupting you. It helps house those lost items until you (or a student helper) is able to put them back where they belong
5. File Bin for Daily Activities
Stay organized by labeling and filing each day’s activities, lessons, and worksheets in a file bin. This makes it easy to access materials quickly and keeps your lesson plans well-structured.
6. Hangers for Anchor Charts
Organize and display your anchor charts with ease by using hangers and a hanging rack! This just makes it that much easier to have visual aids readily available for reference during lessons.
7. Keurig Cup Holder for Playdough
Keep playdough organized and accessible by placing individual containers in a Keurig cup holder (genius!) This creative storage solution not only prevents mess but also makes playdough readily available for students.
8. Velcro Markers to the Whiteboard
Prevent marker misplacement by Velcroing them to the whiteboard. This helps to ensure that markers are always within arm’s reach.
9. Washi Tape Cord Labels
Tired of tangled cords? Use colorful washi tape to label and identify cords for various electronic devices. This simple hack makes it easy to find the right cord when needed.
10. Color-Coordinated Crayon Tubs
For art supplies like crayons, use color-coordinated plastic tubs. This helps kiddos quickly locate the colors they need while also practicing sorting skills!
11. Magnetic Hooks for Stickers
Keep stickers easily accessible by using a magnetic hook on the classroom whiteboard. This makes it quick and convenient to reward students with stickers for their achievements.
12. Table Caddy Coordination
Coordinate table caddies with the color of the items inside. This makes it easy to have kiddos return items back to their proper “home.”
13. Number Wallpaper for iPads
Use pictures of numbers as wallpaper for classroom iPads. This not only personalizes the devices but also helps students quickly identify their assigned iPads.
14. Binder Clip Labels
Organize paperwork with labeled binder clips. Using labels such as “to grade,” “to copy,” and “to file” makes it easier to manage the paperwork flow and stay on top of grading.
15. Book Hospital Bin
Create a “book hospital” bin to hold library books that are ripped or need repairs. Similar to the “I’m Lost” bin, students place the books in the bin with little interruptions. This also ensures that damaged books are properly cared for and can return to circulation once they’re fixed.
Final Thoughts on Teacher Hacks for Classroom Organization
With these teacher hacks for classroom organization, you’ll be better equipped to maintain a manageable and productive teaching environment. Implementing these tips will not only benefit you but also create a more organized and enjoyable learning experience for your kiddos. Happy Organizing!
