I've been back in the classroom for two days organizing and getting things ready! Definitely overwhelming at first, but once you get started it gets easier. I wanted to share how I organize the classroom supplies for the children.
We have tables instead of desks, so it is hard to have each child have their own supplies. What I started last year was giving each table a color and bins with the supplies they need. I have upgraded this year and changed some things based on what worked and what did not last year. Here are some photos:
I have five tables. Each group has a bin for pencils, markers, crayons and scissors & glue. Before we begin a project the "Table Leaders" are told what their group will need. They are responsible for getting the buckets and bring them back to the table. I found that making this one of the weekly class jobs avoided arguing and children racing to the supply shelf.
Last year I filled those caddies with pencils and the big slot with crayons. I found it was difficult for the kids to share the crayons when they were kept in one bin. It often led to arguing or someone 'hogging' the bucket. So I searched pinterest for some ideas and here is what I found:
I got these great little bins at the dollar tree. They came in packs of 2 or 3 for a dollar! They fit crayons PERFECTLY! It's like thats what they were made for. So I bought enough for each child to have their own and a bin to keep them in for each table. Each child will have a labeled crayon box of their own!
I'm still trying to think of some other things I can keep in the caddies besides pencils and colored pencils. Any ideas? Feel free to share!
I am so happy with the way this turned out and can't wait to start using them with my new class! I hope you will find them helpful as well. I posted the labels in my Teachers Pay Teachers store for FREE! Click on the link below to get your own labels!
