My Classroom Management

1. Areas designated for group time, and tables for personal / collaborative work

1.1. I like classrooms that come together many times during the day and instructions are done while children sit next to each other on a rug. Lessons are informal, the children have a sense of community, and the children are able to work on their social skills (how to be a good listener, how to sit closely to others without being disruptive, etc). Though I believe that group time is essential to a strong classroom, children should also have a space that they can take over to do work themselves or in small groups.

2. Classroom rules made / agreed upon / regulated as a group

2.1. It is good for children to comprehend what kind of behaviors are encouraged and which are not acceptable. When they are agreed upon and regulated as a group, it builds a sense of community and teaches the children responsibility of themselves and of others.

3. Enjoyable / fun atmosphere

3.1. I like to encourage as much play, fun, silliness, and laughter as possible during learning experiences. If children have fun while in the classroom (whether it be during math practices or social interactions), then they are more motivated to continue learning. Though having fun is important, it is equally vital that children know when to be serious and regulate their silliness.

4. Bright, open, well-decorated, and organized classroom

4.1. This aspect of classroom management is important to me because I believe that children learn best if they are in an environment that is inviting and open for them to work in, with plenty of environmental print. I also work best when the environment is well-maintained, so it is important to me that my classroom be organized.

5. Accessible materials for children

5.1. All materials that children may need throughout the day should be in a place where they can access them without continually having to ask a teacher for assistance. I believe that this promotes independence because children are able to identify the tools they need to use, locate them in the classroom, use them, and have a finished product without going to the teacher for help getting papers / tools / etc.

6. Procedures

6.1. Having a routine that the students know, and that they will automatically follow without teacher guidance will cut down on idle time / interruptions / unwanted negative behaviors. Students will know what is expected of them and know how to fulfill the expectation. I like how procedure promote desired positive behaviors, and children learn how to be responsible by following set routines.