If I was setting up my classroom right now…

 Here’s what I would do after 10 years teaching, having my own children and a professional break. 

 👩‍🏫 Reduce visual noise: my classroom USED to be full of colour and hanging displays (one year I called it the circus tent!) and then we made the switch to neutral tones, natural materials and muslin covered boards. The difference for me was huge. A relief from all the stuff. Our kiddos appreciate it too. 

 👩‍🏫 Print on card stock: one year I just could not face another round of cut laminate cut. I just stopped doing it. It’s better for our environment and it’s better for time management. Those flash cards will do the same job printed on paper except these ones can be recycled. 

 👩‍🏫 Intentional calm spaces and sensory tools: a functional space for dysregulated students is essential. I would introduce sensory tools in a deliberate and purposeful manner- no poppets larger than my head! 

 👩‍🏫 Standing desk: for me and the students. After years of offering a range of flexible seating, the one that was the most effective for my students was a standing desk. Kiddos need movement, some more than others. As do we! So let’s offer adjustments and see the magic happen. I loved my standing desk for a different reason- I had less surface area for doom pikes #iykyk 

 👩‍🏫 Hands on resources easily accessible: loose parts, toys, counters, dice, TOYS, did I say toys? Even in upper junior, our little people need access to toys and other materials to make their learning visible. I would have a photo label on each container too. 

 👩‍🏫 Outdoor classroom time/ nature play in my timetable: take your children outside more and see the difference it makes. If it’s in the timetable you show it is a priority. 

 👩‍🏫 Meet with every parent: it’s time consuming and exhausting, but one of the most valuable investments of your time. You will have a better understanding of your students when you meet with their parents.

 👩‍🏫 EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE: this one is a biggy… especially for those school establishments that are clinging onto outdated reading assessments. Science of Reading is a thing, get on board. (Also, did you hear that sitting in rows is the the best set up for learning?)

 👩‍🏫 Student connection: you’ve heard the expression relationships, relationships, relationships but swap that for connections, connections, connections. Get to know your kiddos, show them you value who they are. Sometimes you need to throw out the lesson plan and make paper planes instead. 

 👩‍🏫 Wellbeing: I suffered from burn out at the end of my classroom experience, but I never will again. Better time management, deliberate organisation and improved emotional regulation (yes, educators need to cultivate this skill too!). This career is not sustainable when you do not prioritise yourself, so put it in your planner and take action to maintain and support your well-being first. 

 Just a few things there…

 Let me know if anything resonates with you.

GOOD LUCK educators!

Three students drawing on a chalk board in the vintage classroom station during an incursion. This rotation includes a wooden flip top desk, an old school case, a graduation cap and vintage rulers. Perfect for the Year One curriculum.