Have you see the signs that read, “Please excuse the mess. We are learning.”
It’s true that a messy, noisy classroom can be the hub of amazing hands-on, child-centered learning. But unfortunately, in our current test-crazed culture where demands on teachers increase time becomes even more limited and it is harder and harder to fit in projects that are fun and creative.
But, there are some tricks for keeping the mess to a minimum which will save you time, allow you to keep your classroom looking clean and organized, and make it possible to squeeze in some creativity.
Trays are the perfect tool for doing just that. Here’s why I love them:
- They define a workspace.
- They corral small scraps.
- They prevent paint from going off the paper and onto the table.
- If it is time to transition, unfinished projects can be set aside for later.
You can buy cheap trays at IKEA and Walmart as well as Dollar Tree. Another option is to buy cookie sheets with shallow edges at the dollar store.
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How to Organize Scrap Papers in the Classroom to Use Later
