The end of the first semester gives most teachers and students a sense of relief, as there’s a short break before the second semester begins. Getting the classroom ready to take on the rest of the academic year is an important part of returning to school, and we’ve gathered some useful inspiration for ways to show your classroom a little love this holiday season. Read on and see what your classroom might have on its wish list this year!
Classroom Gifts: What Your Classroom Has on its Wish List
Of course, learning can happen anywhere, but a little effort goes a long way when making an engaging and comfortable classroom for you and your students. Use these tips as motivation to refresh your space for the second semester:
Second Semester Decor:
The holiday season has passed by the time you return to school, but that doesn’t mean you have to ditch all the winter decor or projects. An updated cozy reading area with a few new books, some focusing light filters, or even a redecorated bulletin board calendar could be all your space needs to feel updated for the new semester.
Ideas for Improving Classroom Lighting
See what these teachers did to spruce up their space:
Find more ideas at Marci Coombs
Find more ideas at Schoolgirl Style
Find more ideas at The Friendly Teacher
Refreshed Organization:
If the first semester felt hectic and disorganized by the time December arrived, then it might be worth considering a refresh on your organizational tools. Bring in new book bins, reorganize a storage closet with labels, or even add some unique storage. Stock up on hooks, bins, and labels to take the stress out of second semester.
Whether you’re looking to do some color coding, could use new cubby shelves, or want a drawer cart on wheels, we’ve got you covered. Check out these teacher supplies and furniture items put together and on sale for the holiday season.
Ideas for Organizing Classroom Closets & Cabinets
See how these teachers organized their space:
Find more ideas at Playdough to Plato
Find more ideas at The Brown Bag Teacher
Find more ideas at Erica’s Edventures
Fun for the Students:
The addition of a few educational games or toys to the classroom might be the best way to start off the second semester. Not only can it give students something to look forward to, but it may save some stress and chaos during the winter months which include frequent indoor recesses. Stock up on some new games and activities to put a smile on students’ faces.
Early Childhood:
Young children and Pre-K learners are not quite ready to tear into a chapter book, but their imaginations and foundational problem solving skills are quickly developing, and there are activities that are both fun and beneficial. Art supplies, manipulatives like building blocks, and simple puzzles are all excellent options for pre-readers and pre-writers.
Elementary Students:
For elementary-aged kids, there’s a little more room to search out family games and activities. Look for items to encourage curiosity and deeper thinking. From classic games to math and science activities, there’s bound to be something that fits the interests and skills of any young learner.
Restock Your Classroom Online
No time to run around shopping at individual stores? Check out the huge inventory of classroom essentials and educational games and activities at School Specialty. Easy browsing and options to fit any budget are sure to make shopping for your classroom easier.
