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Classroom Teacher Hacks and Tips

#fromteachersforteachers

When asked about the best tips and tricks, I was amazed and awed by the overwhelming amount of responses I got from educators. It takes a village to really have a great pool of ideas so I’ve added links to other teachers’ social media or blog posts. So what are we waiting for?! Sit back and get ready for some awesome teacher hacks! 

must know classroom and teacher hacks

1. First, an absolute MUST HAVE teacher item… HOT GLUE! Don’t have it?  Grab it!  Don’t use it? Start now!! Check out what @alliethegypsyteacher has to say about hot glue! Want to know another MUST Have teacher item?! Two words. Packing Tape! @fifthismyjam knows ALL the love that is packing tape! If you don’t use packing tape for pretty much everything… you should check out her page to see why you should!

hot glue teacher tip

scotch packing tape teacher hack

2. Below are some great ways to motivate students to track while they read! Witch fingers are a cheap and GREAT way to get excited, especially this time of year! 

witch finger for reading

googly eyes for reading

drink stirrers for reading

3. Teachers came through with some GREAT ideas and tips for whiteboards, their storage, and eraser! Click on each picture to read more about the specific tip and idea! 

Whiteboard and eraser storage! You can also store the marker inside the socks!

An oldie but goodie! Pom poms on the tops of dry erase markers! 

pom poms as erasers for dry erase markers

Another eraser type… sponges!!

sponges as erasers

4. Bookmark hack: Laminated Astrobright strips! Talk about an easy, super cute, and INEXPENSIVE idea! Thank you for this wonderful tip @all.about.the.abcs . You could even draw on them, write messages or have students decorate before laminating. 

Astrobrights for bookmarks

5. Hanging things on different types of walls can be frustrating. Insert wall hanging hacks:  Hot glue as mentioned above is usually foolproof, but see the brilliant way @rocketdogteaching does it instead!

blu tack for classroom hanging

6. Who doesn’t love IKEA? I mean everything in there is cute and multifunctional. Here’s a cool and creative way to use the IKEA Tolbsy Frames! 

Tolbsy Frames from Ikea for classroom uses

7. Looking for ways for students to manage themselves? Below are some creative ways to have students help make your life a little easier by taking attendance, going to the bathroom, lunch count, and more! Click on each picture to learn more!

bathroom lights for classroom management

lunch count with magnets

Another way is to have a dry erase board on the classroom door- one side kids write their name on if they leave the room & where they are going, the other side for dismissal changes that day. This helps you  know where kids are at all times! Thanks! @mrsmamallama

8. Do you hate when you’re trying to laminate small pieces and when you lift the sheet to put it in the laminator, the pieces slide? Here’s a helpful tip- use a little glue from a glue stick on small pieces to keep them from sliding around! If you have not tried this yet, it helps SO much!

9. Some classrooms don’t come equipped with enough bulletin boards. Well you can no longer fret about that! You can MAKE your own bulletin boards!! Say whaaat?!! Watch this video below to learn more! 

create your own bulletin board video

10. Have trouble hanging letters straight?! Not anymore with this AMAZING hack! Use blue painters tape to get the letters exactly how you want them before stapling them to the bulletin board. You can even step your game up if you hate seeing the staples! Pins and Colored staples to the rescue! Learn more by clicking the picture below!

hang letters straight with blue painter's tape

colored staples trick

Is decorating the classroom your jam? Here is a great POST all about how to hang classroom decor easily and with less trouble!

11. Task cards awesome resources and they can be used in so many different ways. Here is an innovative one from @mrs_cornetts_corner! Putting task cards in Dollar Store photo albums! All students need is their book and a marker. You can click on the link to learn even more!

Dollar Tree frames for classroom

Dollar Tree photo album for classroom

12. Check out this entire YOUTUBE video full of great hacks and ideas such as printing and copying hacks, and one that helps keep desks and tables together!! 

Youtube video for teacher hacks

13. Annoyed by the glare from laminated sheets? With THIS spray, you can get rid of the glare FOREVER! Grab the Amazing Work Coming Soon signs FREE below!

bulletin board hack

amazing work bulletin board freebie

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Sign up now and get exclusive access to this freebie and many more in the continuously growing freebie library!

14. Command anything is amazing because they’re so quality and how adorable are these command clothespins to hang anchor charts?! Can we say mind blown!

Command hooks for the classroom

15. Two words…. Trash basket. They can be used in so many ways! Here is a post that show how helpful these little baskets can be! 

trash bracket for classroom management

16. Using pins and binder clips, or clothespins and tacks, to display work on bulletin boards is a great idea! It makes changing things out so much quicker. 

 hanging hack for the classroom

hanging hack for the classroom

17. Not sure where to house with all those adorable classroom pointers?! Look how @kimsteachingcorner stores hers!

reading pointer storage hack

18. Another AMAZING hack that I will DEFINITELY use and never thought of… shower curtains instead of fabric on your crate seats!! This is cute and sanitary!! You could probably even get away with a clear liner over your fabric if you already have yours made! 

shower curtain crate seat covers

19. This hack is PERFECT for social distancing right now! Use colored tape to help students establish their own space!

colorful tape spacing for social distancing in the classroom

20. Word walls are essential but have you ever tried a magnetic one?! It’s a GREAT way for students to be able to interact with the word wall and easily put the words back!! I will absolutely be using this one FOR SURE! Thank you @teach.joyously

magnetic word wall tip

21. Trouble making your own anchor charts? Want to make them beautiful but struggle with handwriting and drawing? I know I do! Here’s a great tip for creating Pinterest worthy charts. You can create anchor charts in Google Slides or Powerpoint then project it on the board. Place a piece of anchor chart paper over the top to trace! You can also press the “freeze” button so it won’t move and trace it! Check out an in action video HERE! 

Traceable math anchor charts

Traceable Math Anchor Charts

22. Here’s a great and easy way to display standards- Use page protectors to easily change and keep them displayed!

hanging standards tip

23. Does anyone cringe at the idea of busting open the paint with a classroom full of littles? I’m raising my hand here. However, there’s a great hack for making paint more manageable! Start saving cans with plastic tops, like frosting or peanut cans, and get some plastic sandwich bags. Cut a hole in the top of the frosting can lid. Place a sandwich bag inside the can with the end of the bag folded over the outside of the top. Pour the paint inside the bag and place the lid on top of the can. Kids can dip their paint brushes in the lid hole to paint. When done with painting, place the brush in the sink to be cleaned, take the sandwich bag out and discard, and close it with the top! Still paint left? Simply close the sandwich bag and store it in the paint cup for another time! Easy Peasy!!

24. If you still have virtual students but want students to still participate in think, pair, share activities, how about sending beanie babies, or other small stuff animals, home with your students so they can always have a “partner”. The “partners” can also serve as reading buddies for the year. Thanks! @kellics_firstgrade

Beanie Babies used for reading buddies and turn and talk partners

25. Want to keep the room smelling fresh but aren’t allowed to use candles, diffusers or plug ins? Check out this wonderful hack from @thelittlelearnmaid ! Keep a cheap can of carpet fresh on hand and sprinkle a bit in the trash bag each morning. Every time a kid throws in trash, it stirs the scent and freshens the room all day!

26. One hack that I use EVERY year is numbering students. If provide students with a number, you can then use that number for just about EVERYTHING- bins, cubbies, pencil boxes, etc. The kiddos learn their numbers easily and the best part is that everything with a number can be reused year after year! Grab your own labels HERE!

labeling bins with student numbers

labeling bins with student numbers

student supplies classroom organization

Student Bin Labels

27. Hacks that simply make your life easier is essential in the educator world. HERE is a wonderful post with 10 tips and tricks to make that happen!

teacher hacks blog post

28. Want creative and inexpensive ways to decorate bulletin boards? Switch up the old butcher paper with materials like fabric, dollar store table cloths, or wrapping paper! These are just SOME of the many inexpensive ways so can really get creative!!

wrapping paper to cover bulletin boards

29. Want a great way to display and organize anchor charts?! HANGERS FOR THE WIN!! Teachers are so smart. 

anchor chart storage and display tip

30. Need another wonderful idea to motivate students and get students excited to be called on! Check out how this teacher is using these cute little ducks to do just that! 

lucky ducks classroom tip

I hope you enjoyed these teacher hacks! I know I enjoyed learning about some new great hacks and these are absolutely NOT even close to all the cool tricks out there. If you want to continue this learning, @lifebetweensummers shares a #teacherfollowfriday every Friday with a brand new teacher and a brand new idea! If YOU have any additional must know hacks to share, drop them below! Want to learn about digital teacher hacks? Check out those HERE!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list! You will get the most up to date tips, tricks, and classroom projects… and of course more fun FREEBIES including the Amazing Work Coming Soon FREEBIE! If you would like to learn about this and other things happening in my classroom follow me  @sweetnsauerfirsties on Instagram.

To follow me on TPT and get all the latest updates on HALF OFF new products, click HERE!

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  1. sweetnsauerfirsties says

    February 27, 2022 at 4:14 pm

    Thank you for sharing!

    Reply

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A fun place to be apart of the educational journey. Full of all things teaching! The good, the bad, and even the ugly. Join my experiences and subscribe to my email list to get the most up to date tips and tricks.

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Hello Anger is by @jessicasinarski and discusses how to deal with that overwhelming feeling of anger. 😡 

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You can W*I*N your own copy now! Entering is easy!

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Which type are you?! I’m like a good mix of bo Which type are you?! 

I’m like a good mix of both! 🤣 Let us know which one you are below! ⬇️

Learn 5 easy end of the year organization tips too!
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#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers
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It’s time for #tptfreebie Friday! This week I It’s time for #tptfreebie Friday! 

This week I have an EXCLUSIVE End of the Year Organizational Checklist FREEBIE! 🎉

This checklist can help you pack up your classroom whether you are getting stuff stored, moving classrooms, or even... moving schools! 😬

There’s also a blank version for you to add your own to-do items! Grab yours now! 📦 
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How adorable is this end of the year treat from @s How adorable is this end of the year treat from @sunshineandrainbowsinteaching?! 

Check out her page to learn how to make these delicious snacks! 😋 
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If this ain’t the truth! 😂 What’s your go If this ain’t the truth! 😂

What’s your go to candy? Mine is Reese’s for sure!

Image credit @adventuresinkinder 
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#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers
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One of my favorite books to end the year together. One of my favorite books to end the year together. *Warning* I cry reading it EVERY year! 😭

When is your last day?

Check out my end of the year blog post for more fun ways to end the school year together! 🥳
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Now what if you’re a teacher AND a parent? 😵‍💫
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Still looking for an end of the year gift for your Still looking for an end of the year gift for your students?

Writing notes to students is one of my favorite gifts for them. 

1. It ensures they have something to read over the summer.

2. You can ALWAYS find great dollar book deals from @scholasticbookclubs 

3. It’s a great memory for them to look back on year after year. 

Learn more fun ways to end the year with students now! 🥳
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Have you ever let your students help you clean up Have you ever let your students help you clean up the room at the end of the year?

When we begin to take down the things on the walls, one of the things to go is our word/sound wall. 

Well who says this can’t turn into a game? When you take down all the important words from the year together, put them in a circle and have a word/sound hunt for them. 

The kids LOVE it and are so engaged. Bonus… an area of your room is cleared too!! 😉

Learn more easy end of the year pack up tips now!
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Have you seen this brand new book?! Hello Anger is by @jessicasinarski and discusses how to deal with that overwhelming feeling of anger. 😡 This amazing book helps children understand how to better control their anger and learn strategies to manage it. You can W*I*N your own copy now! Entering is easy!1️⃣ Make sure you’re following me 2️⃣ Make sure you’re following @nationalcenterforyouthissues 3️⃣ Tag some friends who would love to win too!✨ BONUS: Share this to your stories and make sure to tag me! ✨I will choose 2 LUCKY WINNERS Sunday evening! ❤️••••#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers#teacherlife #teacherproblems #firstgrade #firstgradeteacher #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofinstagram #teachersofig #iteach #iteachfirst #iteachtoo #igconnect4edu #growthmindset #teacherspayteachers #weareteachers #socialemotionaldevelopment #socialemotionallearning #socialskills #childrensbooks #readaloud #nationalcenterforyouthissues ... See MoreSee Less

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Which type are you?! I’m like a good mix of both! 🤣 Let us know which one you are below! ⬇️Learn 5 easy end of the year organization tips too!{🔗 on profile}••••#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers#teacherlife #teacherproblems #firstgrade #firstgradeteacher #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofinstagram #teachersofig #iteach #iteachfirst #iteachtoo #igconnect4edu #classroomdecor #teacherspayteachers #weareteachers #teachergram #primaryteacher #teacherquotes #teacherorganization #classroomorganization #teacherfun ... See MoreSee Less

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It’s time for #tptfreebie Friday! This week I have an EXCLUSIVE End of the Year Organizational Checklist FREEBIE! 🎉This checklist can help you pack up your classroom whether you are getting stuff stored, moving classrooms, or even... moving schools! 😬There’s also a blank version for you to add your own to-do items! Grab yours now! 📦 {🔗 on profile}••••#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers#teacherlife #teacherproblems #firstgrade #firstgradeteacher #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofinstagram #teachersofig #iteach #iteachfirst #iteachtoo #igconnect4edu #teacherspayteachers #weareteachers #teacherbloggers #primaryteacher #endoftheschoolyear #classroomorganization #teacherorganization #teacherblogger ... See MoreSee Less

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How adorable is this end of the year treat from @sunshineandrainbowsinteaching?! Check out her page to learn how to make these delicious snacks! 😋 •••••#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers#teacherlife #teacherproblems #firstgrade #firstgradeteacher #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofinstagram #teachersofig #iteach #iteachfirst #iteachtoo #igconnect4edu #lastdaysofschool #teacherspayteachers #weareteachers #teachergram #primaryteacher #endoftheschoolyear #lastdayofschool #studentgifts #ilovemystudents ... See MoreSee Less

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If this ain’t the truth! 😂What’s your go to candy? Mine is Reese’s for sure!Image credit @adventuresinkinder ••••#elementaryteacher #teaching #classroom #teachingideas #classroomideas #education #handsonlearning #teachertribe #teacher #teachers#teacherlife #teacherproblems #firstgrade #firstgradeteacher #teachersfollowteachers #teachersofinstagram #classroomfun #iteach #iteachfirst #iteachtoo #igconnect4edu #teachermemes #teacherspayteachers #weareteachers #teachershare #endoftheschoolyear #lastdayofschool #teacherhumor #teacherfunny #teacherquotes ... See MoreSee Less

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  • Are you struggling with your classroom seating arrangement for your elementary classroom? Check out my ultimate flexible seating guide that you can use to make your back to school planning easy. Learn all of the benefits of flexible seating and how it can enhance student engagement and learning in the classroom. I include a list of other classroom seating ideas like wobble stools and scoop rockers. I also talk about flexible seating expectations and how to use a flexible seating choice board.
  • Are you looking for some classroom organization ideas that you can use for the end of the school year? Check out these 5 easy time saving tips for teachers on how to organize your classroom. Read everything from my ideas for teacher decluttering, how to have students help you organize your classroom, and use my end of the year checklist to help you remember what to bring home for the summer. These organizing tips will help with packing up your classroom so you can leave for summer and relax.
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  • Back to school is right around the corner! As a busy teacher, you are probably feeling overwhelmed with your long back to school to-do list! Today, I am sharing how you can crush the first week of school. I am sharing back to school activities for building a strong classroom community including getting to know you activities. I also also a back to school survival guide and back to school read alouds. Find first week lesson plans and more!
  • Are you struggling with your classroom seating arrangement for your elementary classroom? Check out my ultimate flexible seating guide that you can use to make your back to school planning easy. Learn all of the benefits of flexible seating and how it can enhance student engagement and learning in the classroom. I include a list of other classroom seating ideas like wobble stools and scoop rockers. I also talk about flexible seating expectations and how to use a flexible seating choice board.
  • Are you getting ready to go back to school with some classroom planning? Check out my ultimate back to school guide for teachers in this blog post. I will give you everything you need to succeed for the beginning of the school year with these teaching resources. See how I set up my classroom, how I incorporate social emotional learning, how to create structure and expectation for students and much more. You also won’t want to miss my back to school freebie - a classroom setup checklist.

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