In no particular order, we have...
1: Sweet Smellies
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We call these Sweet Smellies and I can promise you that even "big kids" will dig them! |
As students work, I walk around and do a swipe on the back of their hands. I can use it to silently say, "I'm proud of you," "Keep at it," or, "You got it right!"
The kids LOVE sniffing the back of their hands and then getting right back to work. I never say which scent I'm using so the suspense is real. Also, in the decade I've been using these, I've never had an allergy issue, however I always make sure I check emergency cards at the beginning of the year for ANY allergies!
2: Bungee Chairs
We always have two of these and they're great with clipboards. |
And honestly, I can't blame them. My teammates and I sit in them during planning meetings.
I had the previous pair for about 4 years (they hold up great!) but when Target released these with a more molded chair, I replaced mine. These usually come out when stores roll out their college and dorm items. I think they're about $30 a piece but we all really do love them.
3: Blocks Rock!
They BEG to play this. In fact, I even bring it home if we are having people over for dinner! |
That is this game.
I explained the game and did a practice round, fishbowl style, with a student. I asked if anyone would want to try it and all 33 hands shot up. Sold.
It is THE top pick during soft start mornings. |
It's logic and reasoning and spatial thinking all in one. I can't sing the praises enough. Go grab one HERE.
4: Class Cash
Stacks of cash! |
Students can earn, save, spend (and occasionally LOSE) class cash. I have more written HERE if you're interested.
We use our cash for everything and I love finding fun ways to keep it fresh.
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Fun surprise to see that their responses earned them a bonus! |
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My teacher assistant (a class job) maintains the order here! |
5: BOOKS
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Our class library is like an extension of my family. Seriously. |
When kids ask for book recommendations, few things make me happier than when I can say, "Yes! If you liked this, then you might like this or this or this."
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Stacks and stacks of books make my heart happy. |
-Scholastic warehouse sales
-Scholastic Book Club points
-Used book sales at public libraries
-Garage sales or Goodwill
If you have a class, ask/beg your students to donate their old books to YOU. In my room, I give $10 class cash for every book donated. It's a huge win-win for us.
6: Wireless Microphone
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This microphone is a certified confidence booster! |
Once it's charged, it lasts a LONG time. Students use it throughout the day but we especially love using it to share out writing samples or drafts of pieces.
Granted, the volume doesn't get that loud, we still love it. You can also play music through it too (via Bluetooth and my phone).
7: Podium
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Everyone loves using this! |
I also saw THIS at Ikea and thought it would work perfectly, too!
Basically, it gives a platform (literally) to encourage public speaking skills. Kids love coming up to share out lengthier ideas or to explain a math concept. They'll pop their paper under the document camera and stand nearby to explain.
Want to increase engagement even more? Buy some laser pointers from the Dollar Tree and have them use it AS they present. You will be literally watching future executives get their footing.
8: Interactive Boards
The kids run it, which means the kids OWN it. |
Because of this, I try to make as many walls as possible interactive. Let them take control because I can assure you that they will be FAR more engaged and invested.
Our language wall is on our magnetic whiteboard, so each piece moves easily because of button style magnets (they give the pieces a little depth and make it easier to grab and position).
Kids use this wonder wall to add anything that interests or amazes them. |
This is just a little corner, carved out for quiet work or personal space. |
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I love them. |
These people make teaching and learning fun and I don't take it for granted.

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