Ways to Be Self-Organized

Before you can create a self-organized classroom, you must first understand what self-organization looks like. Self-organization is about having systems in place that make life easier, so you aren’t overwhelmed by always having to make decisions. Here are a few core ideas to keep in mind.

Managing Your Time

Time management is the foundation of staying organized for both you and your students. A planner whether paper or digital will help you stay on top of daily responsibilities. Consider time blocking where you designate specific blocks of time for different teaching tasks (lesson plans, grading, etc.). This will help you stay focused on what comes next as well as model for students how to organize time so they can learn to apply it to their own lives.

Prioritizing

When you have a never-ending to-do list everything may seem like a top priority. The key is to learn to prioritize tasks based on their importance. This strategy will ensure that you are using your time wisely as well as reduce some stress. Encourage students to adopt this approach as well. When they learn how to prioritize their assignments and responsibilities, they develop valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Being Consistent

Once you have your systems in place, you have to stick to them. Regularly following and enforcing the systems you have established ensures that organization becomes second nature, for both you and your students. Consistency is key, the more consistent you are, the easier and more automatic these processes become. An additional benefit is that students often flourish with predictability, leading to a greater sense of calm and stability in the classroom.

Creating a Self-Organized Classroom

Now that you understand the habits of a self-organized individual, let’s apply these concepts to create a self-organized classroom. Here’s how.

Establish Routines and Procedures

Consistent routines and procedures are the backbone of a self-organized classroom. When students know what to expect and understand how the day is supposed to go, they will feel less anxiety and will be able to focus more on their learning. Having consistent routines and procedures helps students develop independence, self-discipline, and a greater sense of responsibility.

Assign Student Jobs

Having classroom jobs not only helps the class run smoothly but also teaches responsibility and accountability. Student-led jobs such as cleaning up after a lesson or organizing papers and supplies give students ownership over the classroom environment. It also helps to foster a sense of community and teamwork.

Designate Spaces for Everything

Every single item in the classroom should be clearly labeled and have a home. This way students know exactly where something goes when they need and where to return it. Having this system in place will help students independently maintain the system. Consider using color-coding to make it even easier for students to find and put away items and materials.

Give Students Ownership

When students have a voice and a choice of how the classroom runs, they will feel more responsible for maintaining the systems they have helped to establish. Allow students to contribute their ideas and consider allowing them to vote on where things are stored or how a procedure will run. Students are much more likely to stick to routines and procedures when they’ve had a say in creating them. This approach will not only have your classroom running smoothly but also give students a sense of responsibility and pride for contributing to their classroom community.

How a Self-Organized Classroom Will Benefit Your Students

The benefits of a self-organized classroom are obvious for teachers – student independence, less chaos, more efficiency, and reduced stress. However, the real impact lies in the lasting benefits it has on students.

Fosters Independence

A self-organized classroom empowers students to take control of their learning environment. They know where to find things, how to take on responsibilities, and how to solve minor issues on their own. This independence builds confidence. It encourages students to take initiative, both in and out of the classroom.

Understanding of Time Management

When students help organize the classroom, they learn time management. Managing classroom jobs and following routines teaches them to use their time effectively. This skill will benefit them in their academic careers and beyond.

Teaches Social Skills

A well-organized classroom only runs smoothly when students work together to maintain the systems that are in place. This collaboration and teamwork teach students valuable social skills such as how to communicate, negotiate, and even problem-solve.

Lifelong Organization Skills

The skills students learn in a self-organized classroom will stick with students far beyond the classroom. By teaching them how to be part of a well-oiled machine, you are setting them up for a successful life and career.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Have you ever heard of the saying “A cluttered mess is a cluttered mind”? This is a reminder that our physical environment can reflect our state of mind. A cluttered, disorganized classroom is often filled with chaos and stress. Creating a clean, organized classroom opens a space for creativity and calm. An organized classroom reduces distractions. It also fosters a sense of order. This helps students feel at ease and engage in learning.

The primary goal of a self-organized classroom is to help students become more independent. By keeping students at the center of the classroom and making them responsible for themselves and their learning, you are inspiring them to have a deeper understanding of themselves.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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The Impact on Education

Standardized testing has been a part of education since the mid-1800s when it was first introduced in the United States, then gained traction with the No Child Left Behind Act in 2002, says the National Education Association (NEA). Initially, standardized testing was introduced as a tool to measure students’ knowledge and skill sets fairly.

The idea behind it was to provide a benchmark that could be used to compare all students regardless of their school district or state. However, the pressure to perform well on these tests has made many teachers feel they need to “teach to the test”, focusing in-class instruction on test-specific content and skills rather than fostering deeper understanding or critical thinking. This shift has led many school districts to narrow or even eliminate subjects like art and music in favor of test preparation.

Additionally, the pressure attached to standardized testing creates a stressful environment for both teachers and students. Teachers worry their job depends on how well their students perform on the test, while students deal with test anxiety. According to a report by the Noah Webster Educational Foundation, many students don’t perform well under pressure which doesn’t mean they don’t know or understand the information, it just means their test anxiety may alter their academic performance. As for teachers, the report added that teachers feel the added pressure forces them to shift their focus on test preparation because they feel their job is at risk if their students don’t perform well on the test.

Perhaps one of the biggest issues about standardized testing is its impact on underprivileged students. Research shows that students from low-income backgrounds tend to perform worse on standardized tests due to limited resources and biases in the way the tests are designed. This creates an unequal playing field, further widening the gap between privileged and underprivileged communities.

The Limitations of Standardized Testing

A major flaw in standardized testing is its inability to capture student’s abilities fully. The main focus of these tests is on core subjects like math and literacy. They fail to test a student’s ability to problem-solve or think critically. They also don’t address skills like how creative a student is or how well they collaborate and work with others. Moreover, they don’t account for individual learning styles. All students process information differently and these tests are designed as a one-size-fits-all approach. So, students don’t get the opportunity to showcase their true abilities.

Another limitation of standardized testing is that teachers have the mentality that they must “teach to the test” to be safe in their jobs. This means that the focus is on memorization and rote learning rather than having students work collaboratively, think critically, or become innovators. Teachers feel they need to check the box to ensure their students will pass the test instead of focusing on giving them an enriching and dynamic learning experience.

Additionally, the tests do not offer timely feedback, and the results are usually returned months after the school year has ended. This means that teachers are unable to use the results to help students improve in specific areas or alter their teaching methods.

Policy and Reform

Considering the limitations of standardized testing, it is apparent that reform is necessary and that with clear changes we can better meet the needs of all students. To begin, the National Education Association (NEA) suggests that test scores should be one of the many tools that are used to help evaluate schools and teachers. They argue that rather than using these scores to penalize schools they should focus on providing adequate funding for struggling school districts.

Another avenue for change could be to have students demonstrate their knowledge and skills through projects or presentations. By doing so, students would be able to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding in a more comprehensive way and showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Lastly, many argue that teachers should be involved in policy discussions since they are the ones who are directly impacted. They have a deep understanding of how their students learn which makes them a valuable resource to know how to best assess them. Involving educators can help to create a supportive education system that will benefit not only students but will foster a more effective learning environment.

Standardized testing falls short of providing an equal and comprehensive measure of student learning. It does not fully capture students’ abilities and teachers often feel they need to “teach to the test” to secure their jobs. However, by including educators in policy reform, and reducing the stakes that are attached to standardized testing, we can create an education system that values all students’ abilities and prepares them for the modern world.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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Cultivate a Gratitude Habit

One of the most effective ways to combat stress is by developing a habit of gratitude. Shifting your focus to the positives in your life can significantly alter your mindset. Instead of dwelling on what’s going wrong, consciously notice what’s going right. It could be something as simple as enjoying a warm cup of coffee brought to you by a colleague or receiving a heartfelt drawing from a student.

Start your day by reflecting on a few things you’re grateful for. Try to remain mindful of these small moments as you go through your day. Over time, practicing gratitude will become second nature, helping you approach challenges with a more positive outlook.

Acknowledge and Reframe Your Emotions

How you respond to stress can greatly impact your overall well-being. If your instinct is to react negatively, it might take longer for you to feel better. Instead, try to acknowledge your emotions and reframe your thoughts when stress arises.

The next time you find yourself in a stressful situation, take a moment to identify what you’re feeling. Rather than dwelling on the discomfort, challenge yourself to think differently. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations, such as “I can handle this” or “This is just temporary.” By changing your internal dialogue, you can shift your perspective and reduce the impact of stress.

Master the Art of Breathing

Throughout your day, you might notice how your breath mirrors your emotions. Your breathing is likely slow and steady when the classroom is calm, with students quietly reading. But your breathing may quicken in response as soon as the environment becomes more chaotic. In moments like these, it’s crucial to pause and focus on your breath. If you find yourself overwhelmed by stress, with your heart racing, take a deep breath in, count to four, and then exhale slowly to the count of four. Repeating this simple exercise a few times can help calm your nerves and restore a sense of balance.

Practice Self-Compassion

It’s easy to be hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s a lesson that didn’t go smoothly or a day that felt like a series of setbacks, many of us tend to beat ourselves up over mistakes, which only adds to our stress.

Instead of fixating on what went wrong, practice self-compassion. Remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s okay to not be perfect. Speak to yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would to a friend. Treating yourself with compassion allows you to turn a stressful situation into an opportunity for growth rather than a source of prolonged anxiety.

Practice Mindfulness

You can easily manage your stress by practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness means intentionally focusing your attention on the present moment, allowing you to take control of where your thoughts go. If you’re looking to reduce anxiety, set aside a few minutes each day to simply sit quietly and focus on your breathing. Pay attention to the rhythm of your breath as you inhale and exhale.

If you find that your mind begins to wander then start counting your breaths every time you inhale and exhale, this will help you stay focused. Every time you feel yourself getting distracted, bring your attention back to your breath. If you find you are having a hard time, then you can try listening to an app like Mindfulness Daily or Headspace to direct you.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Getting enough sleep is one of the most effective ways to manage stress and maintain your overall health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night. This is the most effective and healthiest way to reduce stress in your life.

If you have trouble getting this amount of sleep, then plan to go to bed earlier. To improve your sleep, establish a consistent bedtime routine and create a relaxing environment in your bedroom. Avoid taking your cell phone into the bedroom or bringing in any schoolwork, as these can interfere with your ability to wind down and fall asleep.

Ask for Help

You don’t have to do it all on your own. In fact, learning to delegate and ask for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider contacting colleagues, parent volunteers, or even your students. Many tasks can be shared, lightening your load and giving others a chance to contribute.

Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re incapable; it shows you’re smart enough to know your limits and value teamwork. By spreading out the responsibilities, you’ll have more time to focus on what really matters—your students and your well-being.

Rediscover a Hobby

As a teacher, getting so wrapped up in your work is easy that you forget to take care of yourself. However, engaging in a hobby or activity that you enjoy is crucial for relieving stress. Think back to what you loved doing as a child—whether it was painting, running, or playing an instrument—and make time for it in your life.

Engaging in a hobby provides a much-needed break from the demands of teaching and allows you to recharge. Whether it’s a creative pursuit, physical activity, or social engagement, carve out time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Managing stress as a teacher is a continuous process, but by incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can take control of your well-being and create a more balanced, fulfilling life. Practice gratitude, self-compassion, and mindfulness; reframe your emotions to be more positive; take a moment just to breathe, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. With a little effort and consistency, you can effectively manage stress and thrive in your teaching career.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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Classroom Management and Student Engagement

Set Clear Expectations

Start by setting clear expectations; this is crucial. Your students need to know what is expected of them regarding behavior, participation, and homework. Spend the first few days establishing these rules and expectations. Use visual aids like behavior charts and punch cards to reinforce positive behavior and keep students engaged.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to classroom management. If you’ve set rules, stick to them. Follow through with consequences for negative behavior and rewards for positive behavior. Systems like punch cards can be a fun way to reward good behavior and academic achievements for younger students, keeping them motivated and accountable. For older students, use a points-based system or incentives like a homework pass that aligns with their interests and maturity level. The key is to be consistent and fair, ensuring that every student understands the expectations and knows that positive behavior and hard work will be recognized and rewarded.

Utilize Technology Wisely

Incorporate technology to make learning more engaging and interactive. Platforms like Canva can be great for creating visually appealing presentations and assignments, while apps like Flip can be fun for students to express their thoughts and ideas through their own videos. Educational podcasts can also be a fantastic tool to supplement your lessons and keep students interested. Just ensure that technology enhances learning rather than distracting from it.

Make Learning Fun

Today’s children get bored real fast and it’s especially tough to keep them engaged in lessons. Try and incorporate technology into anything and everything that you can. Like it or not this is what motivates children. Also, teach to their ability. Once you know how they like to learn, you’ll find they will enjoy learning much more.

Professional Development and Growth

Observe! Observe! Observe!

As a new teacher, immerse yourself in learning by observing everything and everyone around you. Watch how fellow teachers manage their classrooms, engage their students, and design their lessons. The more you observe, the more insights you’ll gain. It’s a fantastic way to pick up tips and tricks that can help you grow and excel in your teaching journey.

Seek Mentorship

One of the best moves you can make as a new teacher is to find a mentor. Luckily, you’ll be surrounded by experienced teachers every day. When you find someone whose style you admire, don’t hesitate to ask if they’d be willing to share some of their wisdom with you. Just ensure that your chosen mentor’s values and educational philosophy align with yours. The last thing you want to do is find someone whose approach doesn’t resonate with you.

Reflect on Your Practice

Self-reflection is a powerful tool for growth. Set aside some time each day or week to jot down your thoughts and feelings about how things are going, both the highs and the lows. This practice can help you process your experiences, ease some of those first-year jitters, and provide you with valuable insights. When you look back a few years from now, you will most likely smile at your first trials and tribulations as a teacher.

Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

Making mistakes is one of the hardest parts of being a new teacher. Remember the advice you give your students: it’s okay to fail because that’s how we learn. Apply that same advice to yourself. Some of your best lessons will come from your mistakes. When you stumble, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start again. Embrace the learning process, and you’ll grow stronger and more confident with each step.

Building Classroom Community

Build Strong Relationships

Building strong relationships with your students is vital. Take the time to listen to them, understand their needs, and show that you care. Establishing a strong rapport will make managing behavior easier and engage students in learning. Remember, students are more likely to thrive when they know their teacher believes in them. Building these connections is key to creating a dynamic and interactive classroom.

Foster a Positive and Inclusive Atmosphere

Creating a positive classroom community is essential for student success. Encourage kindness, respect, and collaboration among your students. Use activities and icebreakers to help students get to know each other and build trust. An inclusive atmosphere where students feel safe and supported will enhance their learning experience.

Celebrate Student Successes

Celebrate both big and small successes in your classroom. Recognize academic achievements, personal growth, and acts of kindness. Celebrations can be as simple as verbal praise, certificates, or a class party. Celebrating successes fosters a positive classroom environment and motivates students to strive for their best.

Communicate with Parents

Keeping an open line of communication with parents is key to building a strong classroom community. Use various methods to stay in touch, like email, a classroom website, newsletters, phone calls, and apps. These tools make it easy to keep parents informed and involved, fostering a supportive and connected environment for your students. When parents are in the loop, it strengthens the home-school connection and helps everyone work together to support students’ success.

Don’t forget to have fun. Oftentimes, new teachers are so busy trying to be the perfect teacher they forget to have fun and laugh. Every day try and live in the moment and appreciate your job and your students. Your first year of teaching is bound to be filled with challenges and triumphs. Embrace each experience as an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay passionate, stay curious, and most importantly, stay true to yourself.

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As we navigate these changes, it’s important to understand how various influences impact our students’ ability to retain and recall information. Here we’ll take a closer look at any external factors that may be contributing to student memory and discuss a few strategies that may help improve students’ memory retention.

Is Student Memory Getting Worse?

You, like many other teachers, may have observed students struggling to retain information. This isn’t just forgetting homework or misplacing an assignment, this is retaining information learned in the classroom. In today’s technology-driven world where students are constantly multitasking, it may affect their ability to focus and remember information.

Harvard psychologist Daniel Schacter released an updated version of his book about memory research that revolved around technology and said that while technology can aid in certain cognitive functions, it can also impair our ability to recall information. Schacter explains that when students frequently shift their focus between tasks, such as checking their phones while studying, they don’t fully engage with the material. This makes it harder for students to form long-term memories. Additionally, students depend on technology to help them remember more than their own memory.

Outside Factors That Contribute to Worsening Memory

Here are three potential outside factors that may contribute to this decline in memory.

COVID-19 Pandemic

During the pandemic, remote learning became the norm, and with that came a host of problems. Students were no longer in a structured environment; they were in their homes, surrounded by numerous distractions. These distractions, along with no face-to-face interaction with their peers and teachers, had a major impact on their ability to focus and retain information.

Social Media and Technology

Today’s students have grown up with smartphones and a constant connection to the internet. The constant notifications and multitasking habits prevent students from fully engaging with learning materials, resulting in weaker memory retention. As Schacter’s research indicates, frequent switching between tasks, such as checking social media while studying, hampers the formation of strong, long-term memories.

Information Overload

We live in an age where we are bombarded with information from all directions, social media, the news, online videos, etc. This constant influx of information can make it harder for students to focus and remember what they learn in the classroom.

The brain can only handle so much information at once, and when it’s constantly being fed new data, it becomes harder to store and retrieve important information. Research shows that overwhelming digital content can reduce our cognitive control and attention spans. So, when students are constantly exposed to a lot of information, their memory retention decreases.

How to Improve Student Memory in the Classroom

Several strategies can help improve student memory. Here are a few to consider.

Create a Focused Atmosphere

A calm and focused learning environment with minimal distractions is the best atmosphere for improving student memory. Have students put away their phones, and when it’s time for them to have them out, encourage them to turn off their notifications. Additionally, limit any distractions or disruptions to keep the classroom calm and focused.

Promote Healthy Habits

Have you ever heard the saying “A healthy body is a healthy mind?” Encourage students to get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and get regular exercise. Studies have shown that these factors can significantly impact cognitive function and memory. Research also indicates that students who get enough sleep perform better in memory-related tasks than those who are sleep-deprived. Incorporating these healthy habits into students’ daily routines can significantly improve their memory and overall academic performance.

Teach Mindfulness

Stress and anxiety can negatively impact memory. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, and mindful breaks can help students stay calm and focused. Mindfulness exercises are designed to bring students’ attention to the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety by focusing on breathing and body sensations. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that mindfulness training can lead to improvements in attention and cognitive control, both of which are critical for effective memory retention and recall​.

Use Memory Aids

Memory aids can significantly enhance students’ ability to retain and recall information. One such memory aid is called a mnemonic device. This can help students remember complex information by associating it with something simpler and more familiar.

For example, students can use the acronym PEMDAS and the phrase “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally” to help them remember the order of operations in math (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction). Another memory aid is using visual aids. Diagrams, charts, and mind maps can help reinforce key concepts and make abstract ideas more concrete.

So, is student memory getting worse? Evidence suggests that there are indeed challenges that students today face which may impact their ability to retain information. However, you can make a difference in your students’ cognitive abilities as an educator. By embracing these strategies, you can ensure your students have the best possible chance to succeed with a strong memory.

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Streamlines Lesson Plans

Canva can significantly enhance the efficiency and quality of your teaching materials. By using Canva’s extensive library of templates, you can create engaging visual aids, such as infographics and diagrams as well as use their customizable worksheet templates to save time and ensure your resources are tailored to your curriculum. They also offer structured templates for lesson and unit plans, helping you organize your objectives, materials, activities, and assessments all in one place.

Additionally, you can design engaging learning stations and formative assessments like exit tickets, making differentiated instruction and evaluations seamless. Incorporating Canva into your planning process allows you to produce professional-quality materials quickly, reducing stress and enhancing student engagement.

Enhances Classroom Management

If you want to enhance your classroom management, Canva is a game-changer. Their digital planner templates can help reduce the stress of juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities at once by helping you keep track of assignments, meetings, and important dates.

Their customizable behavior charts make it easy to track and reward student behavior encouraging positive actions through visual and interactive tools. For example, you can create a chart that monitors homework completion motivating students to meet classroom expectations. Utilizing these resources helps to create a structured classroom environment.

Captivates Student Interest

Fostering student engagement is easy with Canva due to its user-friendly interface and customizable resources. Canvas interactive presentation templates captivate students’ attention, turning lessons into visually appealing experiences with features like videos, animations, and quizzes that keep students actively involved. Its collaborative tools make group work easy and fun, enabling students to collaborate seamlessly, regardless of their location. For students who are not tech-savvy, Canvas’s easy-to-use design tools make learning more enjoyable by allowing them to express their creativity and produce high-quality work.

Simplifies Communication

Communication is a breeze with Canva because it’s designed to help keep everyone in the loop. The newsletter and announcement templates help to inform parents and guardians about any important dates, classroom activities, student achievements, or upcoming events. The social media templates help you maintain an online presence that will grab everyone’s attention with the ability to share classroom achievements, motivational quotes, or educational content. You are building a stronger connection with your school and community by maintaining active communication with engaging visuals.

Boosts Professional Development

Canva is incredibly effective at supporting professional development by offering a suite of tools that will enhance any professional portfolio or resource you may need. Canvas design tools make creating elegant and professional resources for professional growth activities, teacher and student portfolios, or showcasing lesson plans or student projects easy. If you’re presenting you can design high-quality handouts or visuals that will make a lasting impression.

Additionally, Canva’s customizable templates for certificates of completion and workshop materials ensure that your presentations and training sessions are both professional and engaging. By using Canva’s extensive resources, you’re making professional development a more dynamic and productive experience.

Empowers Remote Learning

In today’s classrooms, remote learning has become a significant part of teaching. Canva can be utilized to create engaging virtual classrooms. For example, you can create custom backgrounds to correlate with the lesson or topic you are teaching and interactive, digital worksheets where students can drag and drop or have clickable links to gain more information. Additionally, you can create banners, motivational posters, or welcome signs to make your digital space feel more welcoming and vibrant. Using Canva’s tools will ensure your remote lessons are just as engaging as the in-person lessons would be.

Enhances Classroom Décor and Motivation

Enhancing classroom decor and motivation is simple with Canva. You can create motivational posters, classroom rules, and banners using templates tailored to your classroom decor, which can then be printed and displayed. Consider involving students in designing posters or project presentations to enhance the classroom’s vibrancy while fostering their sense of ownership and creativity. These materials can be printed or displayed digitally, making it easy to regularly update the classroom environment.

Incorporating Canva into your teaching toolkit can make your daily classroom tasks so much easier, from lesson planning and classroom management to student engagement and professional development. With Canva’s free resources, you can create visually appealing materials that boost learning and communication, all while saving you valuable time and energy. Take a moment to explore Canva and see how it can help you work smarter, not harder.

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Books for Growth and Insight

Summer is a great time to catch up on some reading. Here are some top picks that provide valuable insight to enhance your teaching experience.

“The Power of Moments” by Chip Heath and Dan Heath

The Heath brothers show you how to create memorable and meaningful experiences both in and out of the classroom. You’ll learn practical strategies to craft moments that leave a lasting impact and ensure that every moment counts when you are teaching. You’ll discover how to inspire and motivate students by making lessons more engaging. Overall, it’s a great read if you’re looking for insight on making a positive difference in how you teach.

“Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth

This book explores how passion and perseverance lead to success. Through author Angela Duckworth’s research, you’ll learn that determination and hard work are often more important than natural talent. This useful book provides insight into how to help students develop grit and how to keep trying when things get tough. This inspirational book will help you inspire students to become more persistent and resilient which are important traits to have both inside and outside of the classroom.

“Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck

Carol S. Dweck’s “Mindset” is a fantastic book that delves into the concept of fixed and growth mindsets and how they shape our lives and potential for success. This book offers valuable insight and practical strategies to help foster a growth mindset in the classroom. It provides real-life examples and tips on how to encourage students to see challenges as opportunities and to learn to grow and build resilience.

It also provides real-life examples and tips on praising effort, viewing mistakes as learning experiences, and creating a classroom environment that encourages curiosity and perseverance. You’ll learn how to transform your classroom into spaces where students are excited to take on new challenges, learn from their mistakes, and strive to improve.

Podcasts to Inform and Entertain

Podcasts are a fun and easy way to stay informed and entertained while on summer break. Here are some recommendations that offer insight and engaging content while you’re relaxing by the pool or listening on the go.

“The EdSurge Podcast” by EdSurge

This podcast delves into the latest in educational technology. Each episode features interviews with an array of guests, including innovators, educators, researchers, and leaders who are shaping the future of education through technology. You can explore various topics from digital tools to online learning platforms.

You’ll gain insight into tips and strategies for incorporating new technologies and how to enhance student engagement. Whether you’re a tech-savvy teacher or just beginning to explore the possibilities of educational technology, this podcast will help you gain insights and ideas needed to thrive in this digital age.

“Cult of Pedagogy” by Jennifer Gonzalez

This podcast is packed with practical tips, strategies, and insights for educators from former middle school teacher Jennifer Gonzalez. Covering a wide range of topics, Gonzalez interviews experienced educators, thought leaders, and experts in various fields of education. You’ll stay informed about the latest educational trends and best practices through different perspectives.

This standout podcast provides you with concrete examples and detailed explanations that help you understand how to apply new strategies in the classroom. By breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible information you’ll stay updated on educational innovations and gain fresh ideas to bring into your classroom.

“The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast” by Vicki Davis

If you’re limited in time or feel your attention span can only take a few minutes of information, then the “The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast” is an ideal resource for you. This podcast offers quick episodes packed with information and tips for those of you who want to make the most of your time. Through various topics, you’ll learn new classroom technology tools, innovative student engagement strategies, and new effective teaching techniques from experts, teachers, and authors. These brief episodes are perfect for teachers with busy lives.

Blending Relaxation and Professional Development

To make the most of your summer reading and listening be sure to carve out specific times each day or week for these activities. Consider joining a Facebook group or book club to enhance your understanding of these perspectives. Also, try taking notes to help you remember important takeaways you would like to apply in your own classroom. Also, be sure to choose a book or podcast that is both interesting and educational to ensure you will both enjoy it and learn from it. Keep in mind that you can relax and stay informed at the same time. So, grab a good book, or tune into a fun podcast and enjoy the summer.

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Understanding Sensory Processing and Regulation

Sensory processing refers to how your nervous system responds to the things you see, hear, smell, or touch. For some children, it can affect all of their senses, and for others, it may only affect one. For children with autism, sensory processing typically means they’re overly sensitive to something other people are not. For example, they don’t like the feeling of a tag on their clothes, they may be sensitive to loud sounds, or a smell bothers them more than it should.

This can result in sensory overload where they will show a certain behavior when they are experiencing a sensory issue, like refusing to wear certain clothes, covering their ears when they hear a loud noise, or flapping their hands or rocking back and forth when they are experiencing a sensory issue, says Autism Speaks.

Accommodating or regulating these sensory issues can help ease discomfort and help children with autism manage their emotions. Since the environment influences sensory needs, sensory rooms can be designed to control these sensory experiences. These rooms are designed to help students feel calm and accommodate students who have hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity.

For example, they may include earplugs, headphones, fidget toys, weighted blankets, soft textures, light covers, sunglasses, or other sensory tools. They may also include soft lighting, calming paint colors, and an open floor plan with adjustable seating.

How Sensory Rooms Can Be Extremely Beneficial to Students With Autism

Sensory rooms can offer numerous benefits for students with autism. Here are a few of the advantages of having one in your school.

Promotes Self-Regulation 

Multi-sensory environments or sensory rooms were found to be an effective way for students with autism to control their emotions better, which can lead to improved control over their emotions, according to a 2021 study. Since sensory rooms are tailored to address the unique sensory needs of each individual, students can engage in sensory experiences that are comfortable for them, promoting a sense of autonomy or feeling of independence which gives them a sense of control.

Reduces Anxiety

Oftentimes, children with autism who have sensory processing issues feel powerless, so being able to escape to a sensory room can help reduce their anxiety. The calming elements of the room can make them feel safe and allow them to de-stress and cope with their sensory challenges in a low-stress environment.

Develops Social Skills

Sensory rooms can have a positive impact on students with autism’s communication skills. Group activities like games that encourage taking turns foster interaction and cooperation among students in a low-stress learning environment, which in turn helps to develop students’ social skills.

Improves Concentration

Sensory rooms are associated with increased focus and improved attention among children. According to a 2022 paper, research has found that sensory rooms have had a positive impact on students’ performance, increasing their focus and their ability to stay on task and follow directions. A well-designed sensory room can help students focus and sharpen their concentration.

Addresses Difficult Behaviors

Sensory rooms can help manage challenging behaviors by providing a supportive and calming environment that is tailored to children living with autism spectrum disorder. If a student shows a certain behavior when experiencing a sensory issue such as a meltdown, redirecting them by going to a sensory room can help them feel a sense of calm. This sense of calm can quickly reduce their behavior, allowing them to refocus their attention and energy on whatever they were doing before they felt a sensory overload.

What to Include in Your Sensory Room

Creating a well-designed sensory room for autistic children involves carefully selecting materials that can cater to a range of students’ unique sensory needs. Here are a few suggestions for creating a calming space.

Lighting and Sound

Soft, warm, dimmable lighting, as well as battery-operated candles, twinkling lights, and lava lamps, can create a soothing atmosphere. Sound insulation can help prevent distractions as well as earplugs, headphones, and working in a space with a closed door.

Tactile Materials

A variety of tangible materials, such as soft blankets or fuzzy pillows, can be soothing and comforting to touch. Textured balls and fabrics can offer tactile stimulation while beads, kinetic sand, and squishy toys can be a satisfying option to help calm some children.

Auditory and Visual Elements

Soothing sounds like white noise machines, sounds of nature, chimes, or soft music can be relaxing for students. Consider including visual elements like panels or textured walls, light displays, bubble tubes, or projectors that change shapes or colors can promote a relaxing visual experience for autistic students.

Calming Colors

Neutral colors create a sense of warmth, while soft blues and greens are known for their soothing effects on the nervous system. These colors can help reduce stress and promote relaxation to help sensory regulation.

A multi-sensory space is a designated space within the school that can help autistic students regulate their sensory experiences in a controlled and safe atmosphere. Since each student responds to sensory experiences differently, sensory rooms need to be flexible and adaptable to meet the needs of all students. By addressing these processing differences, sensory rooms can help students with sensory overload regulate their emotions and reduce their anxiety.

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Routines provide a framework for structure and consistency and offer students a classroom environment where they can learn and thrive. Here we’ll take a closer look at why classroom routines are so vital, what types of routines are common in classrooms, as well as give you ideas on how you can establish a routine in your classroom.

Why Routines are Essential

Classroom routines are rituals or actions that are repeated time and time again. These routines that are repeated regularly provide students with a sense of security because they know what is expected of them. This predictable schedule makes it easy for students to navigate their learning environment. Additionally, it helps with time management by establishing a seamless flow and reducing disruptions during transitions when students are aware of the typical duration of an activity or task. The consistency of a routine can also reduce disruptive behavior because students know what is expected of them at all times of the day.

Routines teach important life skills such as responsibility and independence. Once students become familiar with the expectations of the procedure, they will take ownership of their responsibilities. Ultimately, students will spend more time learning instead of asking what they need to do next, all because a routine was set in place.

Types of Routines

Classroom routines don’t have to be limited to the beginning or end of the school day. They can be used for transitions, to get students’ attention, or in many other ways. Here are a few common ways classroom routines can be used throughout the day.

Entry and Exit Routine

Younger students can learn a procedure on how to enter and exit the classroom, while older students can learn what materials to grab to get started or how to put materials away before exiting the classroom.

Transition Routine

Students will move through transitions many times throughout the day. Learning a routine while moving from one activity or subject to another will make the transition smoother. Many teachers like to use signals or cues like a bell or timer to help the transition move along.

Student/Teacher Attention Routine

Establishing a routine to gain student’s attention or using a signal so students know how to get the teachers attention can prevent classroom disruptions or distractions.

Groupwork Routine

Establishing expectations and teaching students how to form groups will help to prevent classroom chaos. It also established clear expectations on communication, collaboration, and students overall learning experience while in the group.

Homework Routine

Providing a consistent method for submitting homework assignments and or reviewing homework assignments provides structure and contributes to improved academic performance. Not to mention that it will make everyone’s life much easier.

In addition to these routines, you can also have a routine for when students finish work early, how to collect and distribute materials, classroom jobs and responsibilities, using the bathroom, how to work independently, how to use classroom technology, or just about anything you can think of that you do daily and want it to go smoothly.

How to Establish a Routine

If you’re looking to establish and maintain a successful classroom routine, then consider following these steps.

Identify Your Goals

The first thing you want to do is think about how you want your classroom to function. Ask yourself what skills and habits you want your students to develop as well as what tasks and transitions you want to run smoothly. Once you decide upon your goals, this will help guide your choices for a predictable routine that you can set up and teach your students.

Choose Your Routines

You don’t have to choose a routine for every single goal you have in mind, but it also doesn’t hurt. The more routines you have implemented, the easier it will be for students to move about the classroom independently as well as limit the number of disruptions and distractions that are occurring.

Teach Your Routines

Next, it’s time to teach your routines. It’s wise to start with one or two each day because you don’t want to overwhelm your students. First, explain the reason for the routine, then go through each step of the procedure giving examples and non-examples of what it should look like.

Practice Your Routines

Give students plenty of opportunities to practice their routines. Consider hanging visual aids like posters, charts, or checklists in the classroom for students to reference.

Monitor the Routines

Once students have learned the routines, keep an eye on how they are working. If you notice they are not meeting your expectations, then revise or reteach them. You can also ask for assistance or suggestions from your colleagues or ask students how they think the routines are working or if there is anything they would change about the routine.

As you progress through the school year consider revisiting your classroom routines. Some routines may no longer be needed or just aren’t working like they used to. Or you may want to change some of the routines to give students more responsibilities. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to routines. Try and stick to each routine as closely as possible because predictability fosters a sense of security in students, and when they know what to expect each day it will make for a more productive and successful learning environment.

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Even now, I can still recall many of the words or phrases that were learned so many years ago. I gained respect for another culture and felt I could bring something of value to a conversation if ever the opportunity arose to communicate with someone in the language. All of these benefits and so many more support the need to study foreign languages in school.

What do Foreign Language Classes Typically Look Like in Schools?

Foreign language classes are typically taken during the high school years. In most areas in the United States, the most common languages of study are Spanish and French; however, it is not uncommon to find schools that offer courses in German or Latin! The general makeup of a foreign language class consists of learning basic words and phrases that are used in everyday conversation. The goal is to teach students enough language to carry on a brief yet concise conversation.

Due to the nature of high school courses, teachers are generally short on time and may be unable to dive deeper into a language. Foreign language courses at this level are very beneficial in allowing students to experience a new language and determine whether or not they would like to pursue it more intently during their college years or through an additional foreign language course if their school offers it.

What are the Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language?

Foreign languages are normally studied during a student’s high school years, but unfortunately, this is not the most optimal time to introduce a foreign language. It is more beneficial to teach a foreign language while a student is still relatively young and in elementary school, or even younger!

If students begin studying a new language at a younger age, they are more likely to become fluent in the language due to increased exposure to it. Additionally, those students can more greatly benefit from the numerous advantages of learning a foreign language; however, exposure to a foreign language at any age can also provide several benefits.

Below are some of the most important benefits of studying a foreign language while in school.

Stretches Your Brain

Through learning a new language, you are essentially expanding your brain! Students of all ages have to connect what they know and do not know to “connect the dots” of the new information they are receiving. Acquiring the necessary knowledge needed to learn a new language requires students to recognize complex patterns and use critical thinking skills. These skills continue to be beneficial throughout a child’s education, and they help expand the thinking abilities of the brain.

Strengthens Memory Skills

When students learn a foreign language, they are, in essence, sharpening their memory skills. Memory skills are crucial throughout a child’s development; students are constantly committing new knowledge to memory knowledge during their academic years. This is especially true for young children as they are continually expanding their language skills and vocabulary, so it is much easier for them to commit any previously unknown knowledge to their memory.

Their brains are much more flexible and open to new information; thus, this further supports the need to begin a foreign language at a younger age. However, students at any age can strengthen their memory skills through studying a new language, and the benefits of doing so can carry over into other subject areas in helping them to remember important facts and necessary information.

Cultivates Respect for Other Cultures

Through learning a foreign language, students gain a new perspective of other cultures. Specifically, students develop a respect for others who come from diverse backgrounds with which they are unfamiliar. This respect stems from obtaining a better understanding of their culture through the study of their language. Through this, students develop an appreciation for other cultures, and they can connect with others on a deeper level and communicate with others in their familiar language! Both of these advantages might not have been possible if it were not for studying of the language.

Opens Up Professional Opportunities

As students progress in acquiring a foreign language, they begin to develop a proficiency in the language over time. Students begin to speak the language more fluently and may even eventually qualify as being bilingual. This serves as a huge benefit to those students as many future employers (as students enter the workforce) desperately need students who can speak more than one language fluently to better serve customers and businesses. Being bilingual can open up special job opportunities that may otherwise be considered unavailable or unattainable.

By learning a foreign language, students are better prepared to soar academically, work well with others, and understand the differences amongst their peers. These benefits are at the disposal of students of all ages as they open up their minds to new learning opportunities.

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