Create a diagram or a basic sketch of your classroom, taking into account the dimensions of the room and the items that must be included in your classroom, like student desks. This will allow you to gain a better sense of the most effective ways to use the space. You can also download and use a free 3D modeling software program for this purpose. You may decide to divide part of your classroom up into learning centers that are based on different themes. For example, offer a learning space with toys and supplies that fit a home theme, a restaurant theme or a theme taken from a fairytale or children's book.
As a teacher, you don't have to give up classroom decor in order to achieve functionality. For example, by making use of available wall space, you can create decorative shelves that can be used to store classroom supplies, student boxes (where students can store their work) and books. You can also add decorative accents like an artificial plant, toys or student-made arts and crafts projects. By dividing your classroom into sections, you can also better organize your classroom environment, such as by having a cozy corner space in which you add furniture, like a sofa, rocking chair, bean bags, a colorful carpet and other accessories. This space can be used for a variety of functions, including storytelling time.
Use bulletin boards to assist you in organizing lesson plans and classroom-related events in which parents can become involved. For example, you can create seasonal and holiday themes in your classroom or offer information to parents on upcoming events and classroom activities. You can also use a bulletin board as a teaching aid. Place letters of the alphabet, timelines or numbers on bulletin boards, as well as student folders, artwork and more.
Beyond offering a computer in your classroom for students to play learning games, use that computer to store student work (using a scanner), assist you in planning lessons and find resources that you can use in your classroom. These resources include online tours of important places. These online resources may have a better chance of engaging students in learning about these places than a dry lecture would.