Early childhood classrooms are hectic at the start of second semester, but a successful start after winter break requires organization and reinforcement of classroom procedures. Pre-K and early childhood learners need help adjusting to a daily routine again, and these tips will help you to start the semester on the right track.
Storage and Organization Refresh for Second Semester
You might not have all the time you’d like to prepare for the fresh start at the beginning of the second semester. Planning out the rest of the school year is sure to be easier and more enjoyable if you’ve given your space a once over before things get busy again.
Cleaning & Organizing the Early Childhood Space
An early childhood classroom is set up in centers and areas, each with their own tools and supplies. Instead of trying to give every area of the room a matching structure & organizational layout, focus on these two tasks:
- Sorting out any supplies or toys that are broken or need replacement
- Cleaning & sanitizing tools, furniture, and surfaces
Decluttering a Pre-K Classroom with Storage Solutions
Once you’ve cleaned the tools you’re keeping and tossed or repaired those that needed attention, you might want to consider decluttering each area of the room. Whether this means you implement a monthly rotation of materials, or simply get rid of those that aren’t used very often.
A quality over quantity focus on early childhood classroom materials might give your learning space a calmer feeling and cleaner appearance. A strategically organized classroom will not only help to keep things cleaner, but will also contribute to your classroom management protocols.
Second Semester Pre-K Classroom Management
Even if your students haven’t completely forgotten classroom routines by the time they return from winter break, you’ll still want to go over them thoroughly during the first week or two back in the classroom.
Classroom Management Must-Do’s for Early Childhood:
- Emphasize and stick to a routine until students get used to the environment and activities again.
- Go over your “attention collection” method (whatever motion or sound you use to gather student attention)
- Revisit the rules for transitions, whether you use a count down or other type of announcement method.
- Remind students of what they should do if they become frustrated, overwhelmed, or upset. Give them a place to go and some simple steps to follow.
Read More: Classroom Management Goals for Second Semester
Ideas for Adding STEAM to Your Early Childhood Classroom
If you’re looking for a new way to organize a space in your classroom, or a new way to engage the early childhood learners in your space, consider creating a STEAM center. From manipulatives, to building block challenges and books, your classroom STEAM center can help students to explore new ideas and build foundational skills.
Adding some STEAM experiences into the daily schedule can give your students an opportunity to learn in a different way. It doesn’t have to mean buying new and expensive classroom materials. Instead, focus on finding unique ways for students to engage with the tools while building a mental STEAM framework.
Read More: Why Early Childhood Needs STEAM
More Early Childhood Tips & Inspiration
For more tips, advice, and encouragement for a strong second semester, be sure to stop by the Early Childhood category page to see what’s new. You’ll find must-have classroom supply lists, activity ideas, and more.
Also be sure to head over to the online store to find thousands of high quality education tools and supplies for students of any age. From great gift ideas to arts & crafts, the online store has you covered.
Shop: Teacher Favorite Supplies
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