Tip Tuesday: Grab These Resources NOW

Happy Tuesday! I hope you had an awesome and restful weekend. I cannot believe we are well on our way in November- wow. Where does time go!?!

How are you all doing? This time of the year starts to pick up major steam: winter holidays are around the corner, holiday parties, paper work, and term wrap-ups are everywhere on the calendar now. AHH!!! It is important to stay focused, but to carve out a little fun for yourself too. 

The aim of this post is to share a list of 6 resources every elementary classroom should have....or hopefully, at very least, have access to!

​Keep reading to see that list :) 

1. Conferencing Table:  Having a large table allows you to bring students together, direct instruct in those small levelled groups, and to meet & conference with students.  In addition, students can collaborate and worth together without you at a large table! Keep it clear, clean, and easy to access. 

2. Technology: Love it or hate it, it is crucial in the 21st century inclusive classroom.  It provides accessible technology for your students, allows students to share and present knowledge easily, and supports home school connections. 

3. Manipulatives: Inclusive classrooms provide curriculum based on a spectrum of skills: the aim is to support all kiddos! An easy support to provide for many learners is hands-on materials- this is super reinforcing and a great way to present material concretely. Manipulatives can support this process by allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge, develop new levels of understanding and explore deeper concepts. Keep your manipulative organized and ready to go. 

4. Visual Supports: Visuals give pictures and meaning to your words- this is invaluable to many students learning the English language and for students who require support with communication. 

5. Clear Expectations: Consistency helps set the stage for success for all students. When they know what to expect, it is easier to focus on the learning. 

6. Student Information Binder: This is a great place to keep information about your students, their supports, and ways to build relationships with them. Don't over do it- keep it simple. Years ago I worked with a principal who told me to keep everything in these binders because in the odd chance I was hit by a bus could not come into work, someone needed to pick up where I left off..... TOTALLY STRANGE- don't do it for this reason. No one will pick up where you left off- they aren't you. These binders should not be used as scripts for anyone - rather areas to house important information that will help anyone to start to build a relationship with the student. 

I hope you find these 6 resources helpful! Let me know what you find useful- your must haves!

​xo