Teaching preschool is an adventure that combines creativity, patience, and organization. As a first-year teacher, I’ve discovered some fantastic tools that have transformed my classroom into a more efficient, engaging, and pleasant space. Here are my top 7 teacher finds I use daily and absolutely love!
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1. Rolling Carts for Organization
10-Drawer Rolling Carts are a game-changer when it comes to classroom organization. These versatile carts store art supplies, teaching materials, books, and snacks. The best part is that they are mobile, allowing you to easily move materials around the classroom. I used one of my rolling carts as an art supply station where the students had access to various materials. They could choose what they wanted from the art cart and get to creating!
2. Amazon Echo Dot
Incorporating technology in the classroom can be incredibly beneficial, and the Amazon Echo Dot is a perfect example. I used the Echo Dot for playing music, setting timers, and even for storytime. The voice control feature allowed me to manage these tasks hands-free, a lifesaver in a room full of energetic preschoolers. Additionally, the Echo Dot can be used for fun educational games and activities that engage children in a new and exciting way. I loved setting a routine on my Echo Dot and having my cleanup song go off at the same time every day. This helped my students get used to our routine and use their listening skills to acknowledge that a song was playing. Plus, it is really small and doesn’t take up too much space!
3. Dollar Tree Trays
Dollar Tree trays are a budget-friendly and practical solution for organizing individual student activities. These trays come in various colors, making it easy to color-code and manage different types of activities. I used them for sensory play, art projects, and as a base for sorting games. Their affordability means you can have plenty on hand without breaking the bank, and they are sturdy enough to withstand daily use.
5. IKEA FLISAT Table and Storage Bins
The IKEA FLISAT table and storage bins are a staple in my classroom. This child-sized table is perfect for various activities, from art projects to building with blocks. The table has slots where storage bins fit perfectly, making clean-up a breeze. The bins are easy to change out with smaller or larger sizes. Plus, the minimalist design fits seamlessly into any classroom decor. I used mine as my sensory table. I created sensory bins that related to the themes we were learning about in the classroom. This is one of the best purchases I have made for my classroom!
4. IKEA TROFAST Storage
I paired the TROFAST storage combination with my Flisat table by using a pegboard in the middle and having them be cohesive units for our themes. These pieces were my main sensory and building centers. The best part about this storage unit is that you can flip it upside down and it becomes an extra sensory space! The borders around the base can hold sensory items without them falling off the top. You are still able to insert the storage bins into the unit when it is flipped upside down as well.
6. Lakeshore Floor Chairs
Lakeshore Flex-Space floor chairs are fantastic for creating a cozy reading nook or a circle time area. These lightweight, portable chairs provide comfortable seating for young children and can easily move around the classroom. I loved using them for group activities, storytime, and one-on-one reading sessions. The chairs are designed to support good posture, which is important for young learners as they develop their sitting habits. Instead of using these for the kids though, I used them during our circle time and story time when my aide and I had to sit on the floor. These are so much more comfortable for us than sitting on the ground or using a higher chair. With these, we can be at the kid’s level and engage more easily with them.
7. Diffuser
A classroom diffuser can make a significant difference in creating a calming and pleasant environment. I used a diffuser with essential oils to help reduce stress and improve focus among my students. Scents like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties, while citrus scents can be invigorating and help with concentration. The diffuser also helped keep the classroom smelling fresh, which is always a bonus in a busy preschool setting. Everyone that came into my classroom always told me how good it smelled!
These top 7 teacher finds have truly enhanced my preschool teaching experience. From keeping the classroom organized to engaging students in fun and educational activities, each item has proven to be invaluable. If you’re a preschool teacher looking to streamline your classroom and make it a more inviting place for your students, I highly recommend giving these tools a try. Happy teaching!