classroom environment

Heartprints

2/26/14

In our classroom, we have a "Heartprints of Kindness" wall that displays all of the good deeds and friendly behaviors that we want to highlight.  Originally, a teacher suggested a "Footprints of Kindness" wall where I wrote all of the children's good deeds on a cutout footprint shape and had the shapes 'walking' around the classroom.  This is a cute idea, but I feel as though the kids understood the concept more when it was called "Heartprints".  The book Heartprints, by P.K. Hallinan, is a great way to introduce this concept of being a good friend and lending a helping hand--and it's a plus that you can use the same vocabulary when you are highlighting good choices.  The shape of a heart is a universal symbol for love, friendship, and kindness--and isn't that what we hope for most in our classrooms?

Starting the Day Off Right

2/17/14

When my students enter the classroom, this is the first thing they see.  They may not be readers, but this has been read to them by parents and adults.  They know these groups of letters on rainbow strips mean that they are important, wanted, and loved in their classroom by their teachers and friends.  You cannot control what they learn from their older siblings, what they watch on TV, or how much sugar they consume but you can control the classroom atmosphere and the vibes you give off each day.  Make sure it's honest, consistent, and empowering.