tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61533544379481884802024-03-18T13:57:22.172-07:00Taryn's Unique LearningTaryn's Unique Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12562517351180190361noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-85956545506047963222024-03-06T17:57:00.000-08:002024-03-06T17:57:52.494-08:0025 Staff Prizes That Are Perfect for Scratch-Offs<div>Looking for a way to infuse some fun into your monthly staff meetings? Scratch-offs are a great way to boost morale and distribute staff prizes! They're inexpensive, easy to make, and can be used for a wide variety of awards. Check out these ideas to get started with scratch-offs and excite your staff month after month!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1lZDIqvF2qZCD-D-sVDC8BmsR_qyFDVIrgJjk1Zukiw0VpD0-v5e0Clso6KHOaZet1KeaTe4nJWusH9ye4Xs7B5uPka6FY5ZEUinBTOUcMlWBgkYdgA17lz9tUYaBDFMSc86giHb7y-IyqZIDGByzqr8bDToDzN2k1iTg_zfulws8n8v3MICPQv6rJRF/s2240/2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Show your staff how special you are with these 25 staff prizes to award using fun scratch-offs." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1lZDIqvF2qZCD-D-sVDC8BmsR_qyFDVIrgJjk1Zukiw0VpD0-v5e0Clso6KHOaZet1KeaTe4nJWusH9ye4Xs7B5uPka6FY5ZEUinBTOUcMlWBgkYdgA17lz9tUYaBDFMSc86giHb7y-IyqZIDGByzqr8bDToDzN2k1iTg_zfulws8n8v3MICPQv6rJRF/w640-h360/2.png" title="25 Scratch Off Prizes Your Staff Will Love" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What Are Scratch-Offs? </h2><div>Scratch-offs are one of my favorite ways to recognize staff and show them they are appreciated. They're great because they can be used all year long to go along with different seasons and themes. I have a big <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Scratch-Off-Tickets-Teacher-Appreciation-Year-Long-BUNDLE-10630886?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=SCRATCH-OFF%20PRIZES" target="_blank">bundle of scratch-off tickets</a> that includes cute pictures and sayings for every month of the year. </div><div><br /></div><div>These printable tickets come in pre-programmed options as well as blank versions to allow for customization. You can prepare them with scratch-off paint or stickers. They work like those scratch-off lottery tickets you can find at the gas station. Simply "scratch off" the silver circle to reveal a prize! </div><div><br /></div><div>Prizes can be just about anything you can think of from coffee and candy to casual dress days. No matter what you choose to use as your special prize, I know your staff members will love these fun prizes! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyawq-hJhV90_vml8auD-nyFip0i93qsg5q7JJhmD49-3i3G0zJY1wJL6FLmWangyOQlzldFeGyhcSuq4dp5rj9Xo3KbPSdPpbSr-UAA8RZPQAgHtAY8wc17YLRNMX_iiNqicVfbknubIPlCP3NAheowQcZzdrytLqm80ndybNgKP7vKsCZ9tV_CCwJto3/s2240/3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Scratch-offs are a fun hands-on way to recognize the hard work your staff does and treat them with amazing prizes." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyawq-hJhV90_vml8auD-nyFip0i93qsg5q7JJhmD49-3i3G0zJY1wJL6FLmWangyOQlzldFeGyhcSuq4dp5rj9Xo3KbPSdPpbSr-UAA8RZPQAgHtAY8wc17YLRNMX_iiNqicVfbknubIPlCP3NAheowQcZzdrytLqm80ndybNgKP7vKsCZ9tV_CCwJto3/w640-h360/3.png" title="25 Scratch Off Prizes Your Staff Will Love" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">How to Use Scratch-Offs for Staff Prizes</h2><div>You can use these in a lot of different ways, but my favorite is to distribute them at the monthly staff meeting with all members. Everyone gets 1 scratch-off ticket per month to reveal a prize. This will allow you to manage the budget and ensure you have enough prizes for each category. If your budget is tight, select free options for most staff members and then choose only a few higher-priced prizes. </div><div><br /></div><div>At the end of the meeting, have everyone select a ticket and scratch off the silver circle to reveal their prize! You can have them come up to the office or a special table to redeem their ticket for a physical prize or have them turn in their ticket the day they use it for other prizes. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can also use these as "just because" gifts for staff throughout the year as well. Drop a few in mailboxes, leave them on desks, or hand them out personally to make staff feel valued! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Prize Ideas for Scratch-Offs</h2><div>So what do we use for prizes? So glad you asked! Here is a list of 25 prizes that vary in cost and effort to provide. Any of these options are great for scratch-offs and will help keep your staff motivated! The first 6 options on the list are already pre-programmed into my scratch-off tickets, so there's even less prep work involved. There are also blank options so you can choose your own prizes as well! Now onto the staff prizes! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Prime Parking </h2><div>This one is always a favorite and it doesn't cost a dime! Allow your winners to receive a special, reserved parking spot for a week. This works best if you have a sign with the person's name on it displayed on the spot. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51b7NfB1S5V4F-G3huLgdH-RwbgU_413PAqfLMK9mpmcXQX0cAIgVtu9dFBHiOaW6I_hcbzvg8B5ACv5HM8f5nPAUebn5d6alYGUmzmtE-gRo2cPQ_2Q_vCa2O3PFu5_5er94eWcj7xiIZCZfI_aBon0putRpXIXkXDNL_7abE74o_tLkLEzKPEshbkbr/s2240/8.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A front row reserved parking space makes a great scratch off prize for your teachers and staff." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51b7NfB1S5V4F-G3huLgdH-RwbgU_413PAqfLMK9mpmcXQX0cAIgVtu9dFBHiOaW6I_hcbzvg8B5ACv5HM8f5nPAUebn5d6alYGUmzmtE-gRo2cPQ_2Q_vCa2O3PFu5_5er94eWcj7xiIZCZfI_aBon0putRpXIXkXDNL_7abE74o_tLkLEzKPEshbkbr/w640-h360/8.png" title="25 Scratch Off Prizes" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Class Coverage </h2><div>We all need class coverage from time to time. This prize allows the winner to have 30 minutes of class time covered for them, no questions asked! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Duty Coverage </h2><div>Have your winner skip recess or lunch duty for the amount of time you decide on. In my school, the principal, or other admin usually took this shift in place of the winner. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Lunch Provided</h2><div>Everyone loves a free lunch! Let the winner choose a meal to have provided for them at school on a specific day. Use DoorDash, or have a volunteer pick up the meal and deliver it to the winner at lunchtime. If you have multiple lunch winners, you could also opt to have a pizza party or taco bar for winners in the staff lounge. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9XZaoONJRZpvjvksjJWxEM_6O1kGGdhGa4w8LyY_GK9-d9v9y4oF15TWwERyOG6RFPALiY-2jvJ-Iq90KmKnVdEaoKpTpOu5Z8G11xxevPyReYoUQ-uaSFDXFZII6XuasataJi4eTCr1rWjAYjVjmtasX5FwBNUY8SooykOKxdW5_rSTD5DZnixM0Kuv/s2240/7.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Staff prizes like lunch or a special treat is a delicious way to show your staff how much you appreciate them." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9XZaoONJRZpvjvksjJWxEM_6O1kGGdhGa4w8LyY_GK9-d9v9y4oF15TWwERyOG6RFPALiY-2jvJ-Iq90KmKnVdEaoKpTpOu5Z8G11xxevPyReYoUQ-uaSFDXFZII6XuasataJi4eTCr1rWjAYjVjmtasX5FwBNUY8SooykOKxdW5_rSTD5DZnixM0Kuv/w640-h360/7.png" title="25 Scratch Off Prizes" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Special Treat </h2><div>This one is similar to the idea above, but you can customize it to your liking. Either set up a special treat in the staff lounge or look through the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=SCRATCH-OFF%20PRIZES" target="_blank">staff favorites book</a> to find something that the winner especially loves! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Book Purchase </h2><div>Allow the winner to choose a book to be purchased with Sunshine Committee funds! This could be a personal book, a staff development book, or a choice for their own classroom library. I have even taken time to write a nice note or poem in the front of the book making it a sweet, personalized treat for that individual.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Coffee or Hot/Cold Drink </h2><div>This next staff prize is perfect any time of year! Let the winner choose a coffee, tea, or other beverage to have delivered to their room. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Set of Pens </h2><div> Raise your hand if you love Flair pens! Grab a few sets of pens, markers, and highlighters to keep on hand for this prize. Have staff members choose a set to keep. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRMQjk1vWwSm4w-5-E9ubBambIBXIbwLWIRDm3wFu6rqXp15XI4BKfniUiaiem6PAz3gdNrgZ5XqlMFPAPpUduI9AdSzO_zDAekAGL4OZeMrVmtl8me6Spdyxk1MAPPQt6QasWAIT7dw0fr9leY3oylw8uKJR7IN9_55NdVlUJdz7G-V2IHj56gA-kf3Z/s2240/9.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Give staff prizes that are functional like pens, markers, highlighters etc." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRMQjk1vWwSm4w-5-E9ubBambIBXIbwLWIRDm3wFu6rqXp15XI4BKfniUiaiem6PAz3gdNrgZ5XqlMFPAPpUduI9AdSzO_zDAekAGL4OZeMrVmtl8me6Spdyxk1MAPPQt6QasWAIT7dw0fr9leY3oylw8uKJR7IN9_55NdVlUJdz7G-V2IHj56gA-kf3Z/w640-h360/9.png" title="25 scratch off prizes" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">9. Classroom Aide for a Day </h2><div>I love this staff prize because it's super helpful for teachers who would like to conduct a special project or classroom activity. Allow the winner to choose a day to have a classroom aide to help out for a few hours. This can be a volunteer, an admin member, or an aide borrowed from another area in the school. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">10. TPT Gift Card </h2><div>Everyone LOVES this one, and why wouldn't they?! A TPT gift card is a valuable staff prize that will make everyone smile! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">11. Candy Stash </h2><div>We all need a solid candy stash in our classroom or work areas, right? If your staff member wins this prize, let them choose a few candies/chocolates of their choosing to be purchased. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">12. "Fridge" Stock Up</h2><div>While most classrooms don't have an actual fridge, this is still a fun concept. Gift your staff member a case of their favorite soda, tea, sparkling water, or other beverage to keep on hand. Kick it up a notch by writing their name on the bottles or cans and placing them in the staff lounge fridge. It will be a special treat and a quick pick-me-up during the day.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW9aGpvqvA0LhabjP1qy8y0GXqoY-6iH9V7Tc-cKsOXwOwRkxXuZKUlztvSzUPGi3_DUvzYcoImwlxLScvcf6ZTVGE4Ox7IyJhGq_rcDrf6kyy4Ni_Q8t4fLNQ_DTMgLgZUgWzKHx5BRCEPixxc9alXl-YtCTQ2_pW2mIM2HT3YW7kn_7JyciwtX3GGa-X/s2240/4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A delicious treat like a special soda or drink are great staff prizes." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW9aGpvqvA0LhabjP1qy8y0GXqoY-6iH9V7Tc-cKsOXwOwRkxXuZKUlztvSzUPGi3_DUvzYcoImwlxLScvcf6ZTVGE4Ox7IyJhGq_rcDrf6kyy4Ni_Q8t4fLNQ_DTMgLgZUgWzKHx5BRCEPixxc9alXl-YtCTQ2_pW2mIM2HT3YW7kn_7JyciwtX3GGa-X/w640-h360/4.png" title="Scratch Off Prizes" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">13. Casual/Jeans Day </h2><div>This staff prize is FREE, making it a great choice for anyone looking to stretch the budget! Your winner will get to have a casual dress day of their choosing. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">14. Notebook or Planner </h2><div>Anyone who works in a school more than likely <i>loves</i> paper products. Grab some nice notebooks, undated planners, or record-keeping books, and allow winners to choose one as their staff prize. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">15. Food/Coffee Gift Card </h2><div>Grab some gift cards for a local coffee house or popular lunch spot to keep on hand for this staff prize. Allow winners to choose the one they'd like to claim if their scratch-off reveals this prize!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">16. Candle </h2><div>Grab an assortment of scented and unscented candles to keep in a bin or basket. Scratch-off winners can select one that they'd like to keep. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">17. Hand Soap, Lotion, or Sanitizer </h2><div>This is the same idea as above, except with hand lotion, soap, or sanitizers. I like to choose a variety of scents, and unscented options to make sure that people who have sensitive skin or allergies to fragrances can still find something they'd like to choose. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCb4rKHKWuxj2sHKgLRvI1XKxYjitaf_ac4x3RUBqJahZl7PbZH_Jes6cp1ba1_58yAOWld1lHlribiNeQViWP1K6QGeevdqSUmnf6coU-_0I_Hy58Tf7rHtM_gxz8qoF6jSX7pj5VOKsXJ2zpTBbkLQsCAjXfY0fj3VjbkvNrsW4ef-4QV2SA0fetp3VC/s2240/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A plant in a cute pot is a great gift that any teacher would love and it is inexpensive too." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCb4rKHKWuxj2sHKgLRvI1XKxYjitaf_ac4x3RUBqJahZl7PbZH_Jes6cp1ba1_58yAOWld1lHlribiNeQViWP1K6QGeevdqSUmnf6coU-_0I_Hy58Tf7rHtM_gxz8qoF6jSX7pj5VOKsXJ2zpTBbkLQsCAjXfY0fj3VjbkvNrsW4ef-4QV2SA0fetp3VC/w640-h360/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20header.png" title="Scratch Off Prizes for Schools" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">18. Cute Classroom Plant </h2><div>Succulents, cacti, and other small plants make the cutest staff prize ever! You can often find teeny-tiny ones at the dollar store, as well as in the garden area of Target and Walmart for just a few dollars. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">19. Bulletin Board Duty </h2><div>This is another FREE option that your staff members will love! Winners will receive help swapping out a bulletin board display in their classroom or hallway. They can choose the colors, themes, and paper used and a volunteer or admin will help get it all swapped out. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">20. Teacher T-Shirt </h2><div>There are so many <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Teacher-Teaching-Future-Leaders-Letters/dp/B0982YY2W6/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1RBT02J0CRT5B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6H9xJsNqWbH-OhGiox3wnd8t8khPA8Oyir4-99qH-ei_pOWY0VseueT2VNSFRRKHi79VkY69uHXaODw4dYkpd5sZKkOn8HFtxgfONBJ6ETn0BSdDaI4vFrKceimeD5iVkJIZ-XSq7HjCHLDBfW-OVb0dyH0m9HNgPik9hrow07TlySTDrrcDeCduKH8ysPMuVuZkohTLXTbVe9DkGF5OFCrUlK5Oam7b0U3bbqTEgj7_T6RkEbFacdcApdNGoew00Po-i0VTzMINE9M__GJSLzujqER6en43B-gSNHmFuPU.kKx54UAqB17L8PlCnrWASEsPy5HU3cQwjPsPyZOSNwA&dib_tag=se&keywords=teacher+tshirt&qid=1709080339&sprefix=teacher+tshir%2Caps%2C208&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">teacher T-shirts</a> on Amazon, Etsy, and other online stores. Choose a couple of options and then have staff provide their shirt size to order them a custom prize! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8NqxBr14X2CrwYhSI6JD25lVPGOk-dOxHoDQ887eP1a2pxlhzUfqLIR2znV02jiKTtsR0wFq4EVv1O5t5nkULkmF9oNvFvp2blIyGXX2dNcVdEqBF3ndHi0wV_tlW2RWQGk8owg-UjtL-j1q0CkyBpAHTEz-YYW2S7ON5Knd-x7iIBR-tgq1QZ5_q3cv/s2240/6.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An amazingly motivational shirt like this is a great option for staff prizes your staff will actually love." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8NqxBr14X2CrwYhSI6JD25lVPGOk-dOxHoDQ887eP1a2pxlhzUfqLIR2znV02jiKTtsR0wFq4EVv1O5t5nkULkmF9oNvFvp2blIyGXX2dNcVdEqBF3ndHi0wV_tlW2RWQGk8owg-UjtL-j1q0CkyBpAHTEz-YYW2S7ON5Knd-x7iIBR-tgq1QZ5_q3cv/w640-h360/6.png" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">21. Lanyard </h2><div><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lantintop-Teacher-Lanyard-Silicone-beads-Breakaway-Lanyard-ID-Badge-holder-Charm-Teacher-Lanyard-Gift/dp/B0B8Z4Q25Q/ref=sr_1_26?crid=JWK9ADTS1A6H&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.olrNV3sSJEBW4BAg-ypOD1qJK699qWmdUTGX5q2vMT1sxOaVVvjstKqxH9YruZSlBZ1voJXHKwXcadHj3qBOd-pmKJOqQ58_FwLYttqj7ZFugc5lSA3b4e--MLgIUuEDGBBi_EPalI2XKrNq8fCu9chl4d241IKwv5L-_HHFW47rrdNUEIMKCmZwAGXYWrd_CHXkphPA8GFp0eeiooQ6eNUaLcCFdC9i1XOVDfGjBmu4t2kC7K7LFPBjS-DE-YgGM1yLe7Xfm14mQ1SSuSBmSeKbKrwpQNqX-3imiS5cnqs.DtgM7wwfD4qvO-MtgkfP-M-0pJuwmvspMgf64a7mgQ8&dib_tag=se&keywords=teacher%2Blanyard&qid=1709754383&sprefix=teacher%2Blanyard%2Caps%2C149&sr=8-26&th=1" target="_blank">Lanyards</a> like these are a fun gift to award scratch-off winners. I like to buy a few in bulk and allow staff winners to choose one they like. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">22. Breakfast Provided </h2><div> Provide breakfast of their choosing, or make them a breakfast basket for the week. You could include granola bars, muffins, fruit, yogurt, and oatmeal packets. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">23. Snack Stash </h2><div>Just like we all love a good candy stash, a snack stash doesn't hurt either! Check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=SCRATCH-OFF%20PRIZES" target="_blank">staff favorites book</a> to grab your winners' favorite snacks for them to keep on hand. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">24. Cute Tote Bag or Pencil Holder </h2><div>Buy some <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cunno-Aesthetic-inspired-Coworker-Shopping/dp/B0CM6GX3PJ/ref=sr_1_4_sspa?crid=1ED8799ZA6O49&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.x3piNioYYww7FZhkThDn2lxhPn6PKi0eHUGK1s-D_kK7vpl-tU-t_vhcZXWMGMpHuQr4h-LyvPMKVzRgjvaBXU8tfyKYbcu3x5TlUFeT9ZXuk0ITz1sn2c0EUp1vYORhxS2TQEcm7vJuCf_kcFLQrsHoYf9CN89FiegvcEhz_0X4-7KFep1-Bwr69GZTaCy8YBcoWPBuUHcpExK1ZGIYSti8_3hyKsxHv18Un75G0dgGfEBeIl2yV1PLH0FMy6j9RB6V5qPUr3Av6k7VjM-HUrV4PeM-Uv9cG7a2_qZaQZo.IIc-2-hqj6jC2mcuPpjYG2ztGPtvQvQvVllSxXcdpi4&dib_tag=se&keywords=teacher+tote+bag+bulk&qid=1708960147&sprefix=teacher+tote+bag%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-4-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">cute tote bags in bulk</a> to keep on hand for this staff prize. Everyone loves having something to carry their belongings to and from school! A <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lacosu-Colleagues-Appreciation-Retirement-Difference/dp/B0CJ542XRG/ref=sr_1_2?crid=VLIXIQ7KJG87&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8eDQ8OY805BqDTpVVc-cK-As52XzwR6FzJ0SfIIVhB8HtuMGIIg8cCBDyvQXDOPjfOUDGmxiNxljSb5G5GMDgOAIJejSdKuq7ki385JwdtW3YJ7wWvHSiTe5Hz8vGyG5698EIXnHl2d4lrq6DVFqgYl9atGjerAwG5mLqP0-uQFTCYyUzlxvpwj0PcUdFAdJ74Lv3b2maMiKLfFtSDfBin9HJ58QiHl18Fe7WoHvAc81exBnwhXiFfTpQ2zAoMdFAmBq1LLQ8UjNhTLE4ZdvxltVlzccQCwihYN8y97YSEM.C0Nh0aL9Oeb7zB64-8sC14WP0KTxU3oS_UtEv_oJZZs&dib_tag=se&keywords=teacher+make+a+difference+pencil+bag&qid=1709757385&sprefix=teacher+make+a+difference+pencil+bag%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-2" target="_blank">pencil holder</a> is another great prize that will get lots of use.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lacosu-Colleagues-Appreciation-Retirement-Difference/dp/B0CJ542XRG/ref=sr_1_2?crid=VLIXIQ7KJG87&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8eDQ8OY805BqDTpVVc-cK-As52XzwR6FzJ0SfIIVhB8HtuMGIIg8cCBDyvQXDOPjfOUDGmxiNxljSb5G5GMDgOAIJejSdKuq7ki385JwdtW3YJ7wWvHSiTe5Hz8vGyG5698EIXnHl2d4lrq6DVFqgYl9atGjerAwG5mLqP0-uQFTCYyUzlxvpwj0PcUdFAdJ74Lv3b2maMiKLfFtSDfBin9HJ58QiHl18Fe7WoHvAc81exBnwhXiFfTpQ2zAoMdFAmBq1LLQ8UjNhTLE4ZdvxltVlzccQCwihYN8y97YSEM.C0Nh0aL9Oeb7zB64-8sC14WP0KTxU3oS_UtEv_oJZZs&dib_tag=se&keywords=teacher+make+a+difference+pencil+bag&qid=1709757385&sprefix=teacher+make+a+difference+pencil+bag%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A teacher tote bag or pencil holder is a prize that will get used day after day." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3vhTn8pzgHDSBVmTZo7TD7GQO4G5FyWwb89583_o8tuqg5kuqfaIamAergoBnEK257M3iHVafdPZbyeJqmZN9yh7gQ4eJcG1ntr6YXJlkBv0cJITIsR5g3J3Z2Bz6gXGcqlVH4c1URDp2qD1kDInVg6d6MoyDYWn6W8JIUXZ9P5N59tF9Ir9AtK2Ta_2/w640-h360/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20header%20(1).png" title="25 Scratch Off prizes" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">25. Staff Choice Basket</h2><div>This can be a basket filled with all kinds of different prizes or things on this list. Think gift cards, pens, planners, candy, and certificates for parking. Allow winners to take their pick of what they'd like to keep from the basket after revealing this prize on their scratch-off!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Grab Scratch-Offs for Staff Prizes!</h2><div>I hope this list was inspiring to you and helped offer a starting place when it comes to planning staff prizes for your meetings and events. Over the years, I've found that these are such a fun and versatile way to show appreciation to staff in our school. You can<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Scratch-Off-Tickets-Teacher-Appreciation-Year-Long-BUNDLE-10630886?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=SCRATCH-OFF%20PRIZES" target="_blank"> find scratch-offs for every month here.</a> Choosing seasonal and holiday options will only add to the fun and make this experience even more exciting to staff! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Scratch-Off-Tickets-Teacher-Appreciation-Year-Long-BUNDLE-10630886?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=SCRATCH-OFF%20PRIZES" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab these scratch-offs for staff prizes bundle for year-round scratch off tickets your teachers and staff will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7tvT3fsfbwExSYTzNd9XdyGdahgnfktJKuK4yMWL9AxJBjdbbCDgvb61F1tddP6BSNQaV9u8B8lhOLsExZtPAbve4hh0DNSoy4d97wAOsaq69pLmhAws21Cx0SbxfXoWG08q0bUzAgVm_RcZSFzMIsN_jBCGKS1QIvVAM_rq_VFcaZByIA1yZ-52lTMu/w320-h320/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20images%20(9).png" title="25 Staff Prizes That Are Perfect for Scratch-Offs" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Looking for More Staff Morale Ideas? </h2><div>Check out these posts for more inspiration! </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2024/01/staff-morale-boosters-that-arent-food.html" target="_blank">5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2024/01/staff-snack-bar-ideas.html" target="_blank">6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/11/staff-morale-hub.html" target="_blank">Create a Staff Morale Hub</a></li></ul><div><br /></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post</h2><div>Pin this post on Pinterest to keep these ideas for staff prizes handy!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVDkf76E8lX-dhX6B9SFZMdiCCgvTUWWmG92zprkAGOx9E-zNs4WVhyphenhyphena2s48g4bFYiKAlRBm06upaDPsO1oJYiqC_W7V0jxUB0HXgpnvfkDjWhFjyb-x5uHiKB3ouO6WKCTJ7w6GjJ5wSkEa7iNv-CW9M36fdpLyHI7Ti7FRmkXhWs9vxOSWFBT2Vut7/s1500/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20Pins%20(1).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for ways to jazz up your staff prizes this year? Use scratch off tickets paired with amazing staff prizes your teachers and staff will appreciate and look forward to throughout the school year. #tarynsuniquelearning #staffprizes #staffappreciation #staffmorale" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVDkf76E8lX-dhX6B9SFZMdiCCgvTUWWmG92zprkAGOx9E-zNs4WVhyphenhyphena2s48g4bFYiKAlRBm06upaDPsO1oJYiqC_W7V0jxUB0HXgpnvfkDjWhFjyb-x5uHiKB3ouO6WKCTJ7w6GjJ5wSkEa7iNv-CW9M36fdpLyHI7Ti7FRmkXhWs9vxOSWFBT2Vut7/w239-h359/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20Pins%20(1).png" title="25 Staff Prizes That Are Perfect for Scratch-Offs" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVDkf76E8lX-dhX6B9SFZMdiCCgvTUWWmG92zprkAGOx9E-zNs4WVhyphenhyphena2s48g4bFYiKAlRBm06upaDPsO1oJYiqC_W7V0jxUB0HXgpnvfkDjWhFjyb-x5uHiKB3ouO6WKCTJ7w6GjJ5wSkEa7iNv-CW9M36fdpLyHI7Ti7FRmkXhWs9vxOSWFBT2Vut7/s1500/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20Pins%20(1).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVDkf76E8lX-dhX6B9SFZMdiCCgvTUWWmG92zprkAGOx9E-zNs4WVhyphenhyphena2s48g4bFYiKAlRBm06upaDPsO1oJYiqC_W7V0jxUB0HXgpnvfkDjWhFjyb-x5uHiKB3ouO6WKCTJ7w6GjJ5wSkEa7iNv-CW9M36fdpLyHI7Ti7FRmkXhWs9vxOSWFBT2Vut7/s1500/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20Pins%20(1).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVDkf76E8lX-dhX6B9SFZMdiCCgvTUWWmG92zprkAGOx9E-zNs4WVhyphenhyphena2s48g4bFYiKAlRBm06upaDPsO1oJYiqC_W7V0jxUB0HXgpnvfkDjWhFjyb-x5uHiKB3ouO6WKCTJ7w6GjJ5wSkEa7iNv-CW9M36fdpLyHI7Ti7FRmkXhWs9vxOSWFBT2Vut7/s1500/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20Pins%20(1).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizwVDkf76E8lX-dhX6B9SFZMdiCCgvTUWWmG92zprkAGOx9E-zNs4WVhyphenhyphena2s48g4bFYiKAlRBm06upaDPsO1oJYiqC_W7V0jxUB0HXgpnvfkDjWhFjyb-x5uHiKB3ouO6WKCTJ7w6GjJ5wSkEa7iNv-CW9M36fdpLyHI7Ti7FRmkXhWs9vxOSWFBT2Vut7/s1500/25%20Staff%20Prizes%20That%20Are%20Perfect%20for%20Scratch-Offs%20Pins%20(1).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-46867598169447790172024-02-17T10:06:00.000-08:002024-02-17T10:06:11.767-08:00Fun Phonics Activities that Align with the Science of ReadingIf you're a teacher in the primary grades you surely know that one of our most important tasks is teaching phonics skills. As children progress in phonemic awareness it's our job to help guide them towards becoming a reader! While this might sound simple, we all know that a lot is at play here. We've got to consider the best methods and practices for helping our students reach their full potential! With that in mind, let's chat about the Science of Reading and fun phonics activities to support how kids learn best! <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevMn7mxaVejpZzj_V_5FL2j1J8-DQFvfdQiGXWAdbELMHS35Ssh5GvI9BNLo_nnD_Tw5fbKR46Sv7FW4jjgCK2ZSsMYm00X2q9uoNa_Zn-M5RSZJLs5H2N0cXL3xuQKOwPoAC9i9NvMYdgSE58394-ITQTRFMw163mvNL4TBQeDuoE1qPF_lIhurE7Ypu/s2240/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20header%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Include these fun phonics activities in your daily lessons." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevMn7mxaVejpZzj_V_5FL2j1J8-DQFvfdQiGXWAdbELMHS35Ssh5GvI9BNLo_nnD_Tw5fbKR46Sv7FW4jjgCK2ZSsMYm00X2q9uoNa_Zn-M5RSZJLs5H2N0cXL3xuQKOwPoAC9i9NvMYdgSE58394-ITQTRFMw163mvNL4TBQeDuoE1qPF_lIhurE7Ypu/w640-h360/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20header%20(1).png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading" width="640" /></a></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">First Off, What is the Science of Reading? </h2><div>The Science of Reading refers to an evidence-based model on how experts believe children learn to read. The Science of Reading is based on scientific research that has been conducted over the last 5 decades around the world. There are 5 key components to this model which include:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qBr6Mn3dfJMVHOGvmcuKLmECxBZ_WUdC54WiGc7j8bGM4Kl59_99muFky6KQ7bMrY-DXKPnex7FUk4t7-6409ORhv0b4TeM8zihl4Hr6GUwrBuZE7XkmH1XKRXDSFNYOHg6AWXMOg2-rU1-lF2hDjpWXdRSaO2R9xaV8B7iKOFpGy_THoMj6ZmvW1zru/s1080/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images%20(5).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Phonics activities help you make the most of the science of reading model to help your students master phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qBr6Mn3dfJMVHOGvmcuKLmECxBZ_WUdC54WiGc7j8bGM4Kl59_99muFky6KQ7bMrY-DXKPnex7FUk4t7-6409ORhv0b4TeM8zihl4Hr6GUwrBuZE7XkmH1XKRXDSFNYOHg6AWXMOg2-rU1-lF2hDjpWXdRSaO2R9xaV8B7iKOFpGy_THoMj6ZmvW1zru/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images%20(5).png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>phonemic awareness</li><li>phonics</li><li>vocabulary </li><li>fluency </li><li>and comprehension </li></ul><div>Mastery of these 5, key components makes up "what it takes" to become a strong and successful reader. Luckily, as a primary teacher, you're likely already using teaching strategies and techniques that support these five skills! Once we understand what the Science of Reading is comprised of, it's a lot easier to recognize phonics skills that will support the five components. </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Importance of Making Phonics Fun </h2><div>As teachers, we value progress among our students. We know that in order to be successful, they must "level up" over time and gradually increase their understanding of specific topics. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrVzOTNpTWTt2kXI6hXVMh4ZF9s9CGNcX9tfZJqoPOexB3HCZ04hMZu2WeAwNdlt6DpeZtBIoGB8S8ObTmZT1NKbXSgA-2r_Onyr96xOJL3Oz1KfCtbW3-4OQmuajYcm1Fmrqt55ofHK0wvCy3mSlcufhCvcTPfYf-2PO-MVLCI1eKslYh3K0nqjPahSL/s1080/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images%20(6).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="While using phonics activities in your classroom keep them fun for maximum engagement from your students." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrVzOTNpTWTt2kXI6hXVMh4ZF9s9CGNcX9tfZJqoPOexB3HCZ04hMZu2WeAwNdlt6DpeZtBIoGB8S8ObTmZT1NKbXSgA-2r_Onyr96xOJL3Oz1KfCtbW3-4OQmuajYcm1Fmrqt55ofHK0wvCy3mSlcufhCvcTPfYf-2PO-MVLCI1eKslYh3K0nqjPahSL/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images%20(6).png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading" width="320" /></a></div>But we also know that if it's going to stick... it's gotta be fun! This couldn't be more true for the primary grades. </div><div><br /></div><div>We all know that children can learn to memorize things, but will they really remember if the lessons aren't engaging and fun? It's unlikely, right?! </div><div><br /></div><div>So with that in mind, it's time to shake things up when it comes to teaching phonics skills. Let's break free from the norm, explore new teaching methods, and best of all get those kids excited to learn! </div><div><br /></div><div>Not sure how to do that? Not to worry friend, I've got 5 tried and true, engaging phonics activities that align with the Science of Reading and make learning fun! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Inference Phonics Riddles</h2><div>I loved using songs, rhymes, and riddles in the classroom. Seeing my students light up with joy with these whimsical wordplays warmed my teacher heart to the core! Not to mention, they make teaching just about any topic SO much more fun. During small group time, one of my favorite phonics activities to use were these Inference Phonics Riddles. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/INFERENCE-TASK-CARDS-and-Riddles-INFERENCING-ACTIVITIES-and-PHONICS-GAMES-6586122?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Include inference phonics riddles like these in your phonics activities for fun rhymes, beginning sounds, cvc words, blends, and digraphs, and vowel teams practice." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGJvHnJk1lAOJIMTjUjwVkMfleyuyeNbM84Hnu6iRpQVzyffgY8VC2qm_FUG1QIHYTwFyYmAm8juEEZbpiEPSfUnyvfyhTOw-w2P8Tm-K5QmygqCp7eoqnNjDkw9lHjLXlPAQaPQeYMjV4s1FPvQWsLwu1pvKcJQv9DyLtlInz5Lze8ohayU6cFMVNxDh/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images.png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading Inference Phonics Riddles" width="320" /></a></div><div>To use, you'll read the clues aloud to your students one at a time. Students will combine the informational clues with the phonics sound presented to determine the correct answer. Best of all, these cards each have a fold-back flap with the correct answer hiding until it's ready to be revealed! Self-correcting cards and fun riddles make this resource a total win! Phonics skills targeted in these activities include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Inference-Task-Cards-and-Riddles-Rhyming-Activities-1876496?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">rhymes</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Inference-Task-Cards-and-Riddles-Beginning-Sounds-Activity-1830038?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">beginning sounds</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Inference-Task-Cards-and-Riddles-CVC-Words-2853089?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">CVC words</a> </li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Inference-Task-Cards-and-Riddles-Digraphs-and-Blends-Activities-1839146?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">blends/digraphs</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Inference-Task-Cards-and-Riddles-Vowel-Teams-Review-and-Long-Vowel-Game-2471458?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">vowel teams</a></li></ul><div>There is also a set of blank cards as well, for endless possibilities! I think once you give these a try in your own small groups, you'll find that the engagement factor is MUCH higher than you'd find with typical, phonics worksheets. Plus, you'll love watching your students build their knowledge with these fun phonics activities! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/INFERENCE-TASK-CARDS-and-Riddles-INFERENCING-ACTIVITIES-and-PHONICS-GAMES-6586122?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">Check out the full bundle here</a> for year-long learning made easy.</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Phonics Anchor Charts </h2><div>Looking to create a print-rich environment that's filled with words that are relevant to your lessons? Look no further than this great, big bundle of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Anchor-Charts-Phonics-Posters-Great-Big-Bundle-10741272?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">Phonics Anchor Charts</a>. Each chart has a list of words for a target sound along with a picture of a keyword that's marked with a star as an example. Included in the bundle you'll find colorful posters for 7 different phonics skills including:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-Family-Phonics-Anchor-Charts-Phonics-Posters-Rhyming-Words-3856182?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Phonics anchor charts like these are a great addition tor your fun phonics activities you can use in your classroom each and every day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37M8XVTVUwwBG6oCDh_569IPYYGLI-V59uoAVsn-_CxQcp7QiciCZB3cFIopD5FqiwAVPlCx2PHfJX74CxWlJ8tsxpx2zS0CTsuUCS9Hp0ZnS9xwc2N_2nEGdDz4fam4PICehsX-7ExGCwbqCVKgNbFJfWwYwWdGaeE5tIYwkqrB8etu3hA4jP9c3lYjk/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images.png" title="Fun phonics activities that align with the science of reading" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beginning-Sounds-Anchor-Charts-7007050?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">beginning sounds</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beginning-Blends-Anchor-Charts-6290454?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">beginning blends</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-Family-Phonics-Anchor-Charts-Phonics-Posters-Rhyming-Words-3856182?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">word families & rhyming words</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ending-Blends-Phonics-Anchor-Charts-Phonics-Posters-10423473?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">ending blends</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digraph-and-Diphthong-Phonics-Anchor-Charts-PHONICS-POSTERS-6293317?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">digraphs and diphthongs</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Vowel-Teams-Silent-E-Phonics-Posters-and-Anchor-Charts-7785467?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">vowel teams & magic e/r-controlled vowels</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Trigraphs-Phonics-Anchor-Charts-Phonics-Posters-10660245?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">beginning and ending trigraphs</a> </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>There are over 120 charts included in the bundle and many ways to use them! Display them as you teach new skills, use them as teaching tools in small groups, have students use them during centers while writing words, display them on a sound board, or attach them to a homework folder for reference. The options are endless! These phonics anchor charts are such a valuable tool as you work through various phonics activities and skills with your budding readers!</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Phonics Picture Cards </h2><div>Looking for a simple way to introduce new sounds to students? These <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">Phonics Picture Cards</a> provide the perfect visual for primary learners! They offer a simple and effective way to introduce individual letter sounds, digraphs, spelling patterns, or word chunks. Each card features a colorful picture to illustrate the target sound. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Include phonics picture cards like these in your phonics activities centers for independent or small group practice." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rodVtCyRsDDWWlnx__FxeEufu2Dd-HfZm_ilGYRzzHH3fNnmigZqTPLQN1fAMvpWruOlwRUgNewK_VBXw0fol7qkG7HUQ8A558oWRPYIKYqs0Epkf2gFhjTKYJfGjUJLw6lBzo0yYfXMjDE0FBsElj1gpWAfqK0Hd2oSx6_MXBZTQ3uvVdBOD7CqOyot/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images.png" title="Fun Phonics Activities for SOR" width="320" /></a></div><div>To help keep things organized, each card is marked in the bottom left corner by skill. And finally, a picture key helps to avoid confusion! These will come in SO handy during small groups and whole group teaching as you introduce new sounds to your students. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">The bundle</a> includes 800 different picture cards, so you'll be ready for the whole year! Simply print, laminate for durability if desired, and store in plastic photo boxes. Then, as you're teaching, grab the set that aligns with your group's abilities and you're ready to go! These task cards make it simple and fun to provide examples of new sounds for students. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Phonics Fluency Strips </h2><div>Alright friends, let's talk fluency! Reading fluency refers to the ability to smoothly read words and sentences accurately, and with the correct tone. In other words, fluent readers are able to read words automatically, without decoding. This is another key component of the Science of Reading and an important skill to practice in your phonics activities. If you're looking for a simple way to incorporate fluency practice in your lessons, I've got just the thing! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-for-Phonics-Fluency-Phonics-Practice-Word-Lists-K-2-2278029?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use fluency strips like these in your phonics activities for targeted phonics practice you can use for differentiation throughout the school year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQH5l_-ACMElslfNxcvQ794eFKReOy-cr-63Z3U7NvAMZMfOixaQWSAFkGuTSt6kGZr1b49XxnSUzOzNhUrEJfe9jaSEVbmEoL4BgXK_JesSnrDc1Msi8Fx5dlYG0Yhl0OVm9lYrapDE090cl4D4pd3UhY7-iYC_9-dSh-B9TaR3KXQv2qhBREDHu6xWHr/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images%20(1).png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading Fluency Strips" width="320" /></a></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-for-Phonics-Fluency-Phonics-Practice-Word-Lists-K-2-2278029?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">These fluency strips</a> allow you to hand off a word list to a student and have them start reading! They're the perfect way to provide meaningful and consistent practice with reading fluency that is tailored to each child in your group. Inside the resource, you'll find cards for 42 different phonics sounds. Each card has 11 words, giving students ample practice with the target phonics chunk. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love using these in small groups. They're a great way to see how individual children are progressing with various phonics sounds. They're also fantastic to send home in weekly homework folders too! Having parents oversee the weekly reading list will give students more opportunities to become familiar with the phonics sound and ultimately become fluent readers! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Phonics Skills Scoot Games </h2><div>I saved the best for last! If you're looking for a recipe for engagement in your phonics activities, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/PHONICS-GAMES-Phonics-SCOOT-BUNDLE-9220316?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">these games</a> will be the golden ticket! We all know that primary students tend to be a wiggly bunch. They need opportunities to stretch their legs, move around the classroom, and have a change of scenery. Why fight it? With fun Scoot games, you won't have to! You'll be able to target important phonics skills such as: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/PHONICS-GAMES-Phonics-SCOOT-BUNDLE-9220316?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A scoot game like this not only gets your students up and moving but helps them practice magic E, vowel teams, beginning digraphs, and more as part of your phonics activities." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbWl84x5KdKBw1fy7jtU9Q06G7BXxb7KyurPOAAOQwhawOg4O6k2fp5H-2wwK8-P4JRpJNUj0odUPjZk1UNqiRcPtCyHNIk_rsJZOWbZ_1x6LgC0NiX1AiaQp8xf8DUqq9VARYRFhud_vMujxKGtcxdTbFMUOc-Rv_8EihHukv5VBI1fPCB1OOc7g6x8N/w320-h320/Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading%20images%20(4).png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading Scoot Game" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/MAGIC-E-Scoot-Magic-E-Worksheets-Silent-E-Activities-9202984?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=FUN%20PHONICS%20ACTIVITIES" target="_blank">magic E</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Vowel-Teams-SCOOT-Vowel-Team-Word-Search-9204783?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">vowel teams</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/DIGRAPH-Scoot-Beginning-Digraph-Worksheets-9217746?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=FUN%20PHONICS%20ACTIVITIES" target="_blank">beginning digraphs</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/BLENDS-Scoot-Beginning-Blends-Worksheets-9213723?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">beginning blends</a></li><li><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/BOSSY-R-Scoot-BOSSY-R-Worksheets-R-Controlled-Vowels-9228852?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">r-controlled vowels</a></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>To play, simply choose a skill and prep the cards. Then, lay them out around the perimeter of your classroom and supply each child with a clipboard and recording sheet. Every kiddo will start with a specific card and their pencil in hand. As they arrive at their card, they identify the phonics sound/word being targeted on their card and write it on their recording sheet. Then, when you give the signal, they "Scoot!" to the next card. This is such an engaging way to practice important phonics skills and I know your students will love it! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Fun Phonics Activities for the Whole Year </h2><div>Teaching students phonics skills can be exciting with the right activities. This post is filled with my favorites for making daily phonics activities engaging for students! But the fun doesn't need to stop here... be sure to check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning/Category/Phonics-231332?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=Fun%20Phonics%20Activities%20that%20Align%20with%20the%20Science%20of%20Reading" target="_blank">TPT Shop</a> to see all of the phonics activities and lessons I've used over the years! Once you've got engaging phonics activities at the ready, teaching to align with the Science of Reading is a snap! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Pin this post on Pinterest so that you can come back to these engaging phonics activities when you're ready to plan your lessons! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jsqU4Jif3tgVG2AGNlmOk7GhTlLlB8r7gdb3IkiatJIITO02Q3GeMJr46xE1bEnJLs5xIqgqVrRYrqFjl2_zjy_rxROuyHiF4dvxBLIVBHBIfkTIFSEGWKhBIXDaMiG1KN-UV-7ROboExXY_66G0Uju-3TYQo20jVTNmSO4hR8BGO1X1OFCk_GRi5FNd/s1500/2.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for ways to get in extra phonics activities into your daily lesson plans this year? Use these engaging phonics activities to help your students learn important phonics skills they can carry with them throughout their school years. #tarynsuniquelearning #phonicsactivities #thescienceofreading #thescienceofreadingphonicsactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8jsqU4Jif3tgVG2AGNlmOk7GhTlLlB8r7gdb3IkiatJIITO02Q3GeMJr46xE1bEnJLs5xIqgqVrRYrqFjl2_zjy_rxROuyHiF4dvxBLIVBHBIfkTIFSEGWKhBIXDaMiG1KN-UV-7ROboExXY_66G0Uju-3TYQo20jVTNmSO4hR8BGO1X1OFCk_GRi5FNd/w257-h387/2.png" title="Fun Phonics Activities That Align With the Science of Reading" width="257" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-83157449044761556312024-01-31T14:56:00.000-08:002024-01-31T14:56:47.244-08:005 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't FoodIn the world of staff morale gifts and activities, you may have noticed a common theme... food! Treats, meals, and other food-related events are pretty typical when it comes to showing appreciation for staff. While I think we'd all agree that food is a fun way to celebrate, sometimes you want an alternative, right? If you're nodding your head in agreement - I've got just the solution for you! Let's talk about some of my favorite staff morale boosters that are <i>not</i> food! <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbaXaCMWh2c6GSG7c8pRKhts7y0JB4-Y5iJ_i28YkTfuyAVX6nvEnQBdLAuhWoYUqVi4X-z1YlD8TwA5BPbKt5l66J5bUFUHYQfcBY3xewh8m-XyP8SflDsl3mz7ugCDcZNoWUhMD9Q9SpxT5DSybDPDQBeh-feDVUnbSVTEI2Wlak-_Ek-NnZ1QeFw8-I/s2240/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these staff morale boosters that don't include snacks or food to show your teachers and staff how much you appreciate all their hard work this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbaXaCMWh2c6GSG7c8pRKhts7y0JB4-Y5iJ_i28YkTfuyAVX6nvEnQBdLAuhWoYUqVi4X-z1YlD8TwA5BPbKt5l66J5bUFUHYQfcBY3xewh8m-XyP8SflDsl3mz7ugCDcZNoWUhMD9Q9SpxT5DSybDPDQBeh-feDVUnbSVTEI2Wlak-_Ek-NnZ1QeFw8-I/w640-h360/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20header.png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food" width="640" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why Staff Morale Counts </h2><div>First off, why does staff morale matter? If you're an administrator or member of the staff sunshine committee, you already know the importance of staff morale. School staff members work hard! </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6SlXicfazvIO9MRLWIQMOiQcH5PRPujykNc8YAAFlSGQM3_ZUwlLNiLNn37J8EHzdguwuMVqoeYu2uh8M0Aa78I1h6WF5sLYFKmjJAqX7JZafMYUNh5MylKHqWwWKcv0Sm6JapjoDpaA0coLW8u7Ekxqp685Ji5bLb1SAeRpW7smV4vdSolqCpRTysl4/s1080/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Enhancing staff morale means your teachers and staff will look forward to coming to school and be the best teachers and support staff for your students all year long." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6SlXicfazvIO9MRLWIQMOiQcH5PRPujykNc8YAAFlSGQM3_ZUwlLNiLNn37J8EHzdguwuMVqoeYu2uh8M0Aa78I1h6WF5sLYFKmjJAqX7JZafMYUNh5MylKHqWwWKcv0Sm6JapjoDpaA0coLW8u7Ekxqp685Ji5bLb1SAeRpW7smV4vdSolqCpRTysl4/w320-h320/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images.png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food" width="320" /></a><br /></div><div>In today's social climate, staff morale is <i>even more</i> important as staff and teachers navigate tricky situations at school. Keeping staff morale high is important in maintaining a healthy school atmosphere. In turn, this benefits everyone involved. When staff are happy and feel appreciated, you can expect the daily routines in your building to hum right along! And remember, staff morale is important for ALL staff members, not just teachers. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm talking about admin, cafeteria, tech support, secretarial staff, janitorial, security, counselors, librarians, and more! Everyone who works in the school is an important piece of the system. Let's do our part to show appreciation for school staff members with these fun staff morale boosters! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Staff Morale BINGO </h2><div>We're kicking off this list with one of my best-selling staff morale boosters... BINGO! Everyone knows and loves BINGO, right? I've certainly found this to be true in my own school building after years of using it. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Bingo-4143462?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">This game</a> is a bit of a twist on the traditional, with a giant, life-size BINGO board for everyone to use! There are 2 options included, one for teaching staff and one for ALL staff, so you can choose what works best for your building.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Bingo-4143462?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this staff morale boosters BINGO activity as a fun way to celebrate all the hard work that goes into being a part of an incredible school." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXbmVaxUMn6_GwQTOcRvXJPv5Y7d9kVtj6Rhyphenhyphen4JdD6pvKQigLFyFE6B_mUZSEK6OsJ5hQhwlOEwnERwtdAdJOXm73FZM4HXa2hhylpH5uHmDbUXtpHR2_bcfSooHpRIL1Xag3l00MBEVY48evSpo0vWakxyx6J0uUHkyByhlKI3J393nP6YcmWldqu6FI/w320-h320/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images%20(1).png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food BINGO" width="320" /></a></div><div>To set this up, you'll choose your favorite 25 prompts. There are 90 different ones, so no matter what you're looking to recognize and promote- there's something here for you! Prompts include making positive calls home, leaving for the day with an organized desk, not working through lunch, and more! The great thing about this resource is that you can pick and choose what works best for your school. Think about what will motivate YOUR staff, and choose accordingly. If certain prompts don't align with what you're hoping to target- simply leave them out for ones better suited. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you choose your BINGO cards, you'll print them out - I like colorful Astrobrights paper, and then hang them on the wall to make a giant BINGO board. It's a good idea to put this in a high-traffic area so that staff members are reminded to add to it regularly. To play, staff will add their name to each BINGO card as they complete one of the prompts. Once someone has a BINGO, they win a prize. You can continue this until the board is completely filled, or you reach a set time. Either way, this one will energize and motivate staff to fill up those cards! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Random Acts of Kindness Poster </h2><div>This next option is a fun way to get all staff members involved in spreading kindness! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Posters-7375974?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">This resource</a> includes 10 different full-color posters with tear-off prompts for random acts of kindness. The idea is to print them off and hang them in areas where staff congregate. They will look through the prompts and select one to "pay it forward" to a colleague. The prompts include things like:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Posters-7375974?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Staff morale boosters like this random acts of kindness poster will help your staff show each other appreciation." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8jyI7_xBHemnAeW8numbIyv-B9h9ARzayf5qbMS2_EQizUQRFV2Ikk1bLYmrP80Pk3dGVYNaEWcj6fx6RO1CTMGBozObYxiVSmoGwJ4Rzrk_INm-eIfaLlI3ZTr2nwpKupZg3E3cX6t_jIkrm03b5KToz8Mh7-ca4jJUelOSS_3bAfLA8mH6uuq_D-3B/w320-h320/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images%20(2).png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food Random Acts of Kindness Poster" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>pass off a book to a great friend</li><li>plan a walk with a colleague after work </li><li>offer to cover someone's duty </li><li>bring in fresh flowers to brighten up a common area</li><li>share a bottle of soap or lotion for the staff lounge </li><li>provide a listening ear and many more! </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>I love this staff morale booster because it's a way to get staff members thinking about how they can spread a little kindness on their own. I don't know about you guys, but when things are busy and crazy in my life, it can be hard to remember to slow down and think of others. This natural human tendency can stir us into a frenzy! Using random acts of kindness is a great way to reconnect with those around us and remember we're all facing challenges on a daily basis. </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Windshield Messages </h2><div>Looking for a simple, non-food related way to show staff members you care? Windshield wiper cards are the perfect way to do just that! The idea behind this staff morale booster is to choose a heartfelt message for staff and leave it tucked behind the windshield wipers on their car. When they leave for the day, they will find a fun message to motivate and inspire them! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Fall-Windshield-Message-Fall-Activities-for-Staff-10872715?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Windshield messages like these are a great addition to your staff morale boosters and give your staff a sweet note to appreciate when going home at the end of a long day or week." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqgso4Iu6n6kjQDuZ7XtGxk-VCHG8diBT6OHgZAdKylBSXWEvScVztRY587j2ZepCfnpNak3unxcJ5AMCv-CU0aTUxXZkjn8Q8l8xCTeju0b5hCw6aa9jTCT4wasgYjsTeLdwh8JE6TaK0NkYtrcE1x6rls5MbdintzvBUUNT3grWl8IqBmL24JH3i0MxR/w320-h320/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images%20(3).png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food Windshield Messages" width="320" /></a></div><div>I have options to carry you through the entire school year. By choosing one that relates to the season, you'll end up with whimsical notes that are pretty punny! Some of the fall notes include messages like:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I be-leaf in you!</li><li>Your students are falling in love with learning!</li><li>We are totally NUTS about you!</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div>The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Fall-Windshield-Message-Fall-Activities-for-Staff-10872715?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">fall notes</a> will come in handy from August through November. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Christmas-Winter-Windshield-Messages-10648941?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">The winter notes</a> are filled with messages that are perfect for adding to staff vehicles right before winter break. The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Spring-Windshield-Message-Spring-Activities-for-Staff-10951203?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">spring windshield notes</a> will carry you through the spring months leading to the end of the school year. </div><div><br /></div><div>The notes include cute clipart and seasonal designs as well, so all you need to do is print and add a personal touch if desired! Your staff will love going home for the day and finding these notes waiting for them. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Self-Care Challenge </h2><div>I already mentioned my love for BINGO games, and I have another to share! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Teacher-Self-Care-Challenge-Staff-Health-and-Wellness-Challenge-7295048?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">This Self-Care BINGO Challenge </a>is the perfect way to steer your staff towards focusing on health, wellness, and stress relief. This game is designed to be used after hours to help create a better work-life balance and get the necessary rest to be their best self at work. </div><div><br /></div><div>To play, each staff member will get a BINGO board. You can distribute these in staff mailboxes with instructions, or pass them out at a staff meeting. Staff members will work on completing the board throughout the month until the next meeting. This challenge will work for ALL staff members, so make sure to include everyone in your building! The boxes are filled with prompts such as:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Teacher-Self-Care-Challenge-Staff-Health-and-Wellness-Challenge-7295048?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this self-care BINGO challenge as a staff morale booster to remind your staff to take time to take care of themselves." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDSpjPOBPpS0QvHQ7GDGvy5rVwsqJPn0mR7CvWitlE7YQZfr9jESqSa1vftCyIzvH9oDObMNWvOTWGGcXphFq1PMD6IFX2_2BVEhq3JyiQ8kOvWDdOZKBVnR0k8f6t3gQDHrWTTeKR_yUt32CTehyCDzkoLxp6UabCvfv8OhAxV8tapIWhDzLz0sjpvar/w320-h320/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images%20(4).png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food Self-Care Challenge BINGO" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>light a candle</li><li>cut or color your hair</li><li>take a bath</li><li>binge-watch a new show</li><li>find some quiet and enjoy a good book</li><li>get your car washed</li><li>go to bed early and more!</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>As staff complete an item, they will mark it off. You can decide if you want them to complete 5 in a row, or go for blackout! Collect some prizes and distribute them to the winners. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Scratch-Off-Tickets-Year-Long-BUNDLE-10630886?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">These scratch-offs</a> are great options for winners!</div><div><br /></div><div>We all know what it's like to work ourselves into overdrive and never take a moment to rest. This process is exhausting and results in burnout quickly. Encourage your staff to be mindful of their self-care routines with this fun challenge! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Staff Favorites Book </h2><div>This last staff morale booster is a tried and true favorite! Plus, it can be used all year long for many situations. Creating a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">Staff Favorites Binder</a> will pay off all throughout the year. The idea behind this resource is to have your staff members fill out a page with all of their favorite things. They will include things like:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A staff favorites book is a great staff morale booster because it ensures you are giving meaningful gifts, treats, and acts of kindness to show your appreciation to your teachers and staff." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpE5KndUUn8bHb6jYzVyxR_1pASY_kyqprZTYMnhF8545CYG2X2yXvdHJIVjDJrAB-3HR9e0sJfxAgr7k5kH5X2Nu4_bLWLaNpiJHAF_p4VBi17BF95NmR8CYSOOYwjdNpatP05jahnT9qles4HPu8fyvKAm69CLzlZrz63eRGmtjzUx3mGcYpr8FY7d9/w320-h320/5%20Staff%20Morale%20Boosters%20That%20Aren't%20Food%20images%20(5).png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food Staff Favorites Book" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>sweet treat </li><li>office supply</li><li>flower</li><li>store</li><li>hot beverage </li><li>pen and more! </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Once you have everyone's sheet back, you'll make a few copies and place them in 3-ring binders. I like to make multiple copies so that I can place a binder in various places such as the office and staff lounge. As I do this, I let staff know that they will be available for random acts of kindness. If they notice that a staff member is having a rough week, they can check out the binder and pick up their favorite flowers. Or maybe they want to thank a colleague for something, so they grab a pack of their favorite pens.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>The nice thing about this staff morale booster is that it can be used all year long! There are food options inside, but there are plenty of non-food items listed as well, so staff can choose what they'd like to give. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Staff Morale Boosters for the Whole Year </h2><div>Which of these is your favorite? It's hard for me to choose, but I will say that the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">Staff Favorites</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Bingo-4143462?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS%20THAT%20ARENT%20FOOD" target="_blank">BINGO</a> were always a huge hit in our building. No matter what you choose, remember that it doesn't have to be anything super fancy or flashy! A simple thank you note, some fresh flowers in the lounge, or a new set of flair pens was always enough to make me smile and feel appreciated. The idea is to spread sunshine and kindness in ways that are accessible to you. If you're looking for more Staff Morale boosters, be sure to check out these posts for more inspiration! </div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2024/01/staff-snack-bar-ideas.html" target="_blank">6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love!</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/11/staff-morale-hub.html" target="_blank">Creating a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/08/8-staff-morale-boosters.html" target="_blank">6 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year</a></li></ul><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save this Post </h2></div><div>Pin this post on Pinterest to keep track of these staff morale boosters!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga4DAnla0ztboZyu1BL-yRk_aLchZDo6HSGizZiq27_gXGOH8n7jKGZGMc8fwBWpsIv4eCrouNAK_FXPjOgjAfpKLCFz8kPsh1lg4lkK63h74onX7xPSBe-HKWYfP3Gg3n0VDcnVDR3_oe-RSFydIKSfETWKGqKHiq78iX0caD-bgxhnWUFLMy-x76OniN/s1500/4.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for meaningful staff morale boosters that don't include food to use in your school this year? Use these non food staff morale booster ideas to show your teachers and staff how much you appreciate all the hard work they do to make your school the amazing place it is each and every day of the school year. From BINGO to windshield messages, these fun and creative ideas will let your staff know you appreciate them. #tarynsuniquelearning #staffmoraleboostersthatarentfood #staffmoraleideas #increasingstaffmorale" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga4DAnla0ztboZyu1BL-yRk_aLchZDo6HSGizZiq27_gXGOH8n7jKGZGMc8fwBWpsIv4eCrouNAK_FXPjOgjAfpKLCFz8kPsh1lg4lkK63h74onX7xPSBe-HKWYfP3Gg3n0VDcnVDR3_oe-RSFydIKSfETWKGqKHiq78iX0caD-bgxhnWUFLMy-x76OniN/w213-h320/4.png" title="5 Staff Morale Boosters That Aren't Food" width="213" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" style="text-align: left;" /></a></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-92185445653240435252024-01-16T01:53:00.000-08:002024-01-16T01:53:47.149-08:00Teaching Money Skills with Math CraftsAhhh, money skills in the primary classroom. This essential math topic generates a fair bit of excitement for our students. And who can blame them? Learning to count money and make purchases is a rite of passage while growing up! As a teacher who strived to maintain high student engagement, I took advantage of this excitement and created a brand new way to practice money skills with math crafts! Come along to see how this works and the impact it can have on your students. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzWaSkkXZec-dalKQvNf94_xeDkvSFRMVVoz2n8PI7YbPFXO9Ws4xGPunXeHY8kI2rE8da7Qs8IoV4dUPRKtPYJzB6PdnR1-rGLk2PEz_CI_AmWlCopz0POBzEeLvLy9ac6Q_OWR4hPNfHEjR0cSMoSc_9WkXM_mphcWI0Buz4HYie4U8bZQwqaP77f6b/s2240/Copy%20of%20Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Header%20Templates.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use this exciting math craft to teach money skills to your students in a creative and memorable way." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzWaSkkXZec-dalKQvNf94_xeDkvSFRMVVoz2n8PI7YbPFXO9Ws4xGPunXeHY8kI2rE8da7Qs8IoV4dUPRKtPYJzB6PdnR1-rGLk2PEz_CI_AmWlCopz0POBzEeLvLy9ac6Q_OWR4hPNfHEjR0cSMoSc_9WkXM_mphcWI0Buz4HYie4U8bZQwqaP77f6b/w640-h360/Copy%20of%20Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Header%20Templates.png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="640" /></a></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Importance of Money Skills for Primary Learners </h2><div>Learning to recognize coins, recall their value, count them up, and make change is undeniably important for our little learners! </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_uwBueTQaHE1HFTxIU_o0nneFh7bu0Q9wYLYCXrPNa84CoWTgnUp_qCdBf2NJoR7hpH93zS2qTHtdunmPKd5CC5HIg3Ixo7b-AflUaJyORfmD0h0M0cXp03O5x8ANUsOMQj1OkDUaDz5fA5mdSrEBl3KNdZECnZ-jo0aL03639U9JMT014roJKgSIZoA/s1080/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Giving your students lots of options and independent choices when it comes to learning is going to be a key to success when teaching money skills." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_uwBueTQaHE1HFTxIU_o0nneFh7bu0Q9wYLYCXrPNa84CoWTgnUp_qCdBf2NJoR7hpH93zS2qTHtdunmPKd5CC5HIg3Ixo7b-AflUaJyORfmD0h0M0cXp03O5x8ANUsOMQj1OkDUaDz5fA5mdSrEBl3KNdZECnZ-jo0aL03639U9JMT014roJKgSIZoA/w320-h320/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images.png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="320" /> </a>Luckily, this topic tends to be well-received in the classroom. This is so helpful since we all know that when students are engaged in learning, they gain so much more from our lessons! Aside from the obvious, mathematical benefits of learning to count coins, students will also gain financial skills from money lessons too. </div><div><br /></div><div>Teaching children to count their money, assess its value, and carefully plan for purchases is such an important lesson. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of the reasons money skills are so engaging for students is because they involve choice. We all know that little learners love being given choices and options. When we present them with an opportunity to decide what they'd like to spend their very own money on, the anticipation soars!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Introducing Money Skills </h2><div>Before we dive into my favorite way to master money skills, let's get down to the basics of teaching students about money values. Your school likely has standards and curriculum for working with money in your math lessons. Most of us are required to use these materials, but I think it's safe to say that we often like to add in our own supplemental resources too! The extra resources are usually much more fun for students, encouraging enhanced engagement and participation. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kHwOXiNFcpjD9LgazGOqtmzDzy3GO4rwSJofAotZ8jafFaGS0d5pho5JAJ7uooqzHjbrf1gWLgCOMcmEEoAQfmU2Hu56tG8MZv2nFCTyR6zp0Gm-6Zrs_TVjJLTFKCGXsJ-3uVzRHTM0aHJEQ7HhnTErybbnDcOr7ZAlQGBQ_SqXHe5z_dZlrSjvf-ED/s1080/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(1).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Introduce the concept of money skills with these engaging picture books you can add to your classroom library or use as read alouds." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kHwOXiNFcpjD9LgazGOqtmzDzy3GO4rwSJofAotZ8jafFaGS0d5pho5JAJ7uooqzHjbrf1gWLgCOMcmEEoAQfmU2Hu56tG8MZv2nFCTyR6zp0Gm-6Zrs_TVjJLTFKCGXsJ-3uVzRHTM0aHJEQ7HhnTErybbnDcOr7ZAlQGBQ_SqXHe5z_dZlrSjvf-ED/w320-h320/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(1).png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="320" /></a></div><div>In my room, books are always on the lesson plan when it comes to introducing new topics. This is certainly true with money skills as well. I like to use a few read-alouds to introduce the concept of coins and dollar bill values to students. Some of my favorites include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Coin-Counting-Rozanne-Lanczak-Williams/dp/0881063266/ref=sr_1_8?crid=1UULJ5NHNU9PZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.AIUlOP7VMtUmuBqQEastWtpLrOrY_AaJ30L1XGhzlkM0CKd67t15x5HnFAmPJAVWcKFdccV1krCwr70LN937fw.nvekA3qRDu3iZ1s0k8x1dAfbSHSaha03N1-L9t4f3HM&dib_tag=se&keywords=money+counting+books+for+kids&qid=1704986469&s=books&sprefix=money+counting+books+for+kid%2Cstripbooks%2C141&sr=1-8" target="_blank">The Coin Counting Book by Rozanne Lanczak Williams</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3RRBu3W" target="_blank">My First Book of Money Basics by Sara Kale</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/47Duwpp" target="_blank">Everything Money (Nat. Geo Kids) by Kathy Furgang</a></li></ul><div>These books provide a basic overview of financial literacy topics, as well as information about how much each coin is worth. I like to read them aloud in the mornings before we dive into deeper lessons on working with coins. These will be a great complement to the math curriculum you're already required to use with your kiddos. </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Real-World Application of Money Skills</h2><div>Alright friends, ready to take your lessons to the next level? Once your students have some baseline knowledge of money, it's time to put practice into play! Money skills are already fun, but when we let students use them in action, we've got a recipe for success! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiql2-cXKlQtCmpMpKknd-d_JlthGUjx4I8NSOA09VAAVew0ZtiizVc0_KqErdyBj-43oo8XwFan68vKROlKX9LXWHJB9EWtF9YcwFjs-jbbnKuIDGeW545Vv1E0uV-A7PZ89P_Dd9V_zOpJ37auuBZqN7B2Ceh8LutO9Y4AARyy8SBp2oN1owjbw2Yu6II/s1080/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(2).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Using seasonal money skills activities will help you give your students an opportunity to practice real world money applications throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiql2-cXKlQtCmpMpKknd-d_JlthGUjx4I8NSOA09VAAVew0ZtiizVc0_KqErdyBj-43oo8XwFan68vKROlKX9LXWHJB9EWtF9YcwFjs-jbbnKuIDGeW545Vv1E0uV-A7PZ89P_Dd9V_zOpJ37auuBZqN7B2Ceh8LutO9Y4AARyy8SBp2oN1owjbw2Yu6II/w320-h320/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(2).png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="320" /></a></div><div>In my classroom, one of my absolute favorite ways to work on money skills throughout the year was with seasonal math crafts. And, it was definitely something my students looked forward to as well!</div><div><br /></div><div>Each season, we'd set aside some time to transform the classroom into a marketplace with multiple shopkeepers selling pieces of our craft materials. The idea here is that students will move from "shop" to "shop" and purchase pieces to build their craft. </div><div><br /></div><div>In order to make this work, you'll need to do a little planning ahead and utilize parent volunteers, support staff, or even older children to help manage the shops. But, trust me - this is well worth the time and effort to organize! Your students will look forward to your money skills crafting days and have SO much fun along the way. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Planning the Activity</h2><div>As I mentioned, we used these activities throughout the year for different seasons, holidays, and themes. For example, in the winter months, our craft was a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snowman-Craft-Coin-Counting-and-Counting-Money-9531396?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=MONEY%20SKILLS" target="_blank">silly snowman</a> that everyone loved. When it was time to plan one of our money skills crafting days, I liked to collaborate with other teachers and see if they had any students they'd like to lend out as classroom helpers. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snowman-Craft-Coin-Counting-and-Counting-Money-9531396?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=MONEY%20SKILLS" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Plan your money skills math craft by asking for volunteers and older student helpers or parent volunteers." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFjInfFJfWcbezDK0ukwFU65wFKZmoHDK-MAZhnYe7m6kobahnfRyx_4YLfxPGSOWqtoYN08rwzUmg27z_IndPBY6aQJL8KK7GCzXdq9PtQvc1juS4CwGSeYXAeyTUazBMUoVxoABNcCFFp6M1N6WzJ7kmbdgqz6gKqy5OcZSIQPcJjUrqAkqJYegFRCWF/w320-h320/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(5).png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great opportunity for older children to practice patience and cooperation with the little ones. Another option is to ask support staff or parent volunteers to help out. The money-exchange portion of the activity will probably take 30 minutes or so, depending on the size of your class. If your volunteers can stay to help with the crafting portion of the activity - even better!</div><div><br /></div><div>The additional prep work includes printing out craft pieces on colored or white cardstock. There are full-color options as well as blackline. I like to print them out ahead of time and then roughly cut the paper into pieces across the dotted lines. Students will do the final cutting when it's time to assemble.</div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, and we can't forget the coins! You'll need to gather up enough coins for each child to borrow for the lesson as well as plastic cups or small containers to keep track of them as they move throughout the classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div><h2>Using Money Skills to Buy Craft Pieces</h2></div><div>Once you're ready to begin, students will each be given a cup of change in the same amount. You can use plastic coins or real ones, whichever you prefer. Then, each volunteer will work as a "shopkeeper" and have different types of craft pieces available for sale. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snowman-Craft-Coin-Counting-and-Counting-Money-9531396?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=MONEY%20SKILLS" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Incorporate real world money skills in your math crafts by giving your students the opportunity to "purchase" their craft supplies." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikek3wwb6Toad1dJsundwxWWLOXR9uQ8QgIG1KeR1LhW0C_frwBuiEFCMtLNn3IYstJj0SoqUUOqs9lJg2WMCPEmPitEl4sJXKN4DeczVt6lPl7joaN1asrjwBSKRrCBgGug0cA3WL3a5vDhTmfO0EknVLrgPhOGCgEl0PcB-kEc61kUCPJ_TeZKBnYCns/w320-h320/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(4).png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="320" /></a></div>Students will read the price list, choose what coins they need from their cup, and pay for the necessary materials with the help and guidance of the volunteers. Each craft has required pieces, as well as optional pieces, so students will need to budget accordingly to make sure they have enough money to pay for all of their pieces. </div><div><br /></div><div>Keep in mind that the first time you use this activity, you might need to slow things down a bit and provide a few example transactions. This will be helpful for your students as well as the volunteers! Once you've done this activity a few times though, I think you'll find that this activity flows quite easily with young students. </div><div><br /></div><div>As children progress, you can differentiate the activity to be more difficult with increased prices, varied "menus", and even different types of coins. Younger students might work exclusively with pennies and nickels, while older kiddos will use all coins. You can even discreetly pass out pre-made coin cups to correspond to the skill level. Since kiddos will be buying their craft pieces independently, no one needs to know who has what. This makes it fun and easy to continue practicing money skills all year long and with a variety of skill levels. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Assembling the Craft </h2><div>After the money skills lesson is complete and all of your children have purchased their pieces, it's time to craft! Students will work to cut out their pieces, color if necessary, and assemble their craft. If your volunteers are still available, they can circulate in the classroom and assist as necessary. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snowman-Craft-Coin-Counting-and-Counting-Money-9531396?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=MONEY%20SKILLS" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Once your money skills math craft snowman is assembled, consider displaying them on a classroom bulletin board for everyone to see." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRViB7b6zRmDr8xwfpDzSf2AcYvA-QESgmHpYjpaWLFN85HriC3AJyUShJGy8CSl3pYscCJPKYmz8_GZdOIv8priQH-DaFPA2PD0cg9wIAy0z0WgV1F6f56asty_ElKV-WHRHtttxXvIW_GxqGkCKG3agtEuH2oV8eW1DuyriMgvBRPPqePeEfMOVmbI32/w320-h320/Teaching%20Money%20Skills%20with%20Math%20Crafts%20images%20(3).png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="320" /></a></div><div>You can even take this a step further and incorporate some writing skills as well! Simply have your students write a short story about their snowman and how much it "cost" to build it. You can also have them count how many pieces they needed to build the snowman. Another option is to ask them why they chose to decorate him the way they did. </div><div><br /></div><div>No matter what you choose, this is a fun way to incorporate money skills, counting, fine motor practice, following directions, and even writing if you so choose. Talk about an all-in-one activity!</div><div><br /></div><div>When everyone is done, I like to display these on a bulletin board. Everyone is proud to show off their work and in turn, we have a fun and festive seasonal bulletin board for everyone to see! Since we use these seasonally, I know that I have at least one bulletin board covered - which is one more added plus!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Practice Money Skills All Year Long </h2><div>So what do you think friends? Would you use this money skills math craft in your room? This was certainly a hit with my kiddos and we always looked forward to this special day each season. If you want to take a closer look at these resources be sure to check the holiday and seasonal options in my TPT Shop:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Money-Math-Crafts-Engaging-Activities-for-Kids-to-Learn-Create-HOLIDAYS-10463169?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=MONEY%20SKILLS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="holiday math crafts to help students work on money skills" border="0" data-original-height="1434" data-original-width="1430" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9h4U3mdd9fymiIqwuR_sgtX1CMB9rnB4cJsCy7Arba-gPAgKKayPv_qsAW9GOA7unOZffai0Q-JsV-5zX2qdcjoTh9fgHLp3WnObOXKi4fRXrQRMwWkMiiWkJWCEQQA62DQOoWt2zZh6L2IazL8POktHeHUjG8AeCRH2oQy5PqcLcQqB0CwtDVulNMbf/w319-h320/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-15%20at%205.16.40%20PM.png" title="Holiday Buy and Build Bundle" width="319" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Money-Math-Crafts-Engaging-Activities-for-Kids-to-Learn-Create-BUNDLE-9531858?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=MONEY%20SKILLS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="seasonal themed math crafts to help students work on money skills and counting coins." border="0" data-original-height="1434" data-original-width="1430" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wUJknGTgI5zOY90kc0VGqKeRs7xAudXXvWtCNirg3MvOdcoMHCvDZDTfQcCnxiroLh9NftewvDai0p0PavfsvuZp0gBh7RRO-XrV7hBumK-5tZAZUr78oHqJztubh93hYrvO9ZxmqeTuoYc1WCk5mwjwVf7Rcckt3V6itXkDisMe8TLGK7HH79J_-wS6/w319-h320/Screen%20Shot%202024-01-15%20at%205.17.17%20PM.png" title="Seasonal Buy and Build Bundle" width="319" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div>There's a little something for everyone in these bundles, and I know you and your students will love completing one of these crafts during each season. Plus, it's so much fun to watch your students grow in their money skills throughout the year! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save These Math Crafts! </h2><div>This post is a fun way to mix up your classroom math lessons. Pin this post on Pinterest to keep these money skills math crafts handy! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVelXnVEsNlZ4GhV0sQrGHY58vWnE052jEwloeGJvQyf1Oa1HaEzcA-GSYWAkENNuV7tMAkCjXO6BFUmTUKGwyhOcCdNXHCNO_3HUt1Do6SmarVJuOnSiDlvQD6qtprvDqPQUn10AdPaMCGuiVAUB8-iZ83xqrrZv-iZNVKrgOe5b3LwwdtKEmQMFvI-z2/s1500/4.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for a new and exciting way to introduce the concept of money skills to your students? Use these engaging math crafts to introduce money skills to your kiddos this year with exciting activities they can use to learn about real world money use. #tarynsuniquelearning #teachingmoneyskillswithmathcrafts #mathcrafts #teachingmoneyskills" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVelXnVEsNlZ4GhV0sQrGHY58vWnE052jEwloeGJvQyf1Oa1HaEzcA-GSYWAkENNuV7tMAkCjXO6BFUmTUKGwyhOcCdNXHCNO_3HUt1Do6SmarVJuOnSiDlvQD6qtprvDqPQUn10AdPaMCGuiVAUB8-iZ83xqrrZv-iZNVKrgOe5b3LwwdtKEmQMFvI-z2/w241-h362/4.png" title="Teaching Money Skills with Math Crafts" width="241" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-45380225334531815642024-01-04T07:59:00.000-08:002024-01-04T07:59:31.006-08:006 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love<div>We've all had staff parties and potlucks, but sometimes we just need to mix it up with something different. If you can relate, I've got the perfect solution for you... staff snack bars! I'm talking about a buffet-style snack table with a fun theme. There's really no way to go wrong with this staff appreciation idea and I know everyone in your building will love it! Here are 6 of my favorite staff snack bar ideas to get you started. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbLNkOAbXIXJ6ZeIkCIB4aHZ7fmDHyuUFEBa9YXH3Ub9fCS0y4Wp2yZ5Rf55Mse4mOC03gqqzSgXlVRudiIHdb5vYFCG3mWNji2u6Ccndcu6UndVZjNEkAOEUtm1zQPpsZhyh1tQQfa20In66zYoIqK4TXvZj1VWfYjZh8CcUVNX9epVVuB5UtPF-_Kq8V/s2240/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pep up your staff with these delicious ideas for staff snack bars you can use all year long." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbLNkOAbXIXJ6ZeIkCIB4aHZ7fmDHyuUFEBa9YXH3Ub9fCS0y4Wp2yZ5Rf55Mse4mOC03gqqzSgXlVRudiIHdb5vYFCG3mWNji2u6Ccndcu6UndVZjNEkAOEUtm1zQPpsZhyh1tQQfa20In66zYoIqK4TXvZj1VWfYjZh8CcUVNX9epVVuB5UtPF-_Kq8V/w640-h360/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20Header.png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is a Staff Snack Bar? </h2><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtjD1hyDRiIcSy5r4brtcwyK4K7YOyj7nNOhwFb0eLXCrHq8LEzjdd-4XcrPsKFKoqwAea2vh2YhWKJn7QaKeYA0bBx08UJwD5lcFMUzOyJL2gOFepP41UrL_-wzcwJ1ImWdq8yHREEHTqfmxiynt2bMseM9_9M1Pyc5OgR0FnF6n2a-gOrWZgkmrirsF/s1080/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A staff snack bar is more than just food. It's a way to get everyone involved in celebrating how amazing your staff is." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtjD1hyDRiIcSy5r4brtcwyK4K7YOyj7nNOhwFb0eLXCrHq8LEzjdd-4XcrPsKFKoqwAea2vh2YhWKJn7QaKeYA0bBx08UJwD5lcFMUzOyJL2gOFepP41UrL_-wzcwJ1ImWdq8yHREEHTqfmxiynt2bMseM9_9M1Pyc5OgR0FnF6n2a-gOrWZgkmrirsF/w351-h351/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images.png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love" width="351" /></a></div>Have you ever been to a party where food is served buffet-style so that you can customize it to your liking? </div><div><br /></div><div>This is such a fun concept because it allows everyone to make their own creation. It's also pretty cost-effective and conducive to mingling since people can come and go as they please. </div><div><br /></div><div>That's the idea behind staff snack bars, except I like to take it a step further and use a fun theme to tie it all together. A staff snack bar is a fun way to celebrate or show appreciation to staff members and serve food in a fun way. </div><div><br /></div><div>As a bonus, it also allows people to grab and go when they have a few spare minutes which is great for schools with varied break times. The best part though is that everyone gets exactly what they want! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">When To Use Staff Snack Bars </h2><div>Staff snack bars are super versatile and can be used all year long for different seasons, themes, and celebrations. For example, at the start of the school year, you might have a breakfast bar to show appreciation for staff as they settle into a new routine. In the winter you might choose to have some kind of warm drink station with a variety of toppings and add-ins to warm everyone up! Or maybe you want to have a taco or nacho bar to celebrate the big game at your school. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdF1OgfFPUQTHBQJhd2_2IDYQyTMME5hePxYQ1Ffb2JrQ9Ano2iJWd2-BbksNVG1BcNDuViilJI-MjK35Px4mmXhvAF0W_Wg8Tktq0OCzDei6agUi7HQBVZ_vFRTH22BElu4bCQJc4Wk_gX-K21ge4C4xyx4DtI-oI-vDUF2TIueUNJvt_XsCmY30rt_E/s1080/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(1).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Use staff snack bars any time of year or coordinate them with special events and holidays." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdF1OgfFPUQTHBQJhd2_2IDYQyTMME5hePxYQ1Ffb2JrQ9Ano2iJWd2-BbksNVG1BcNDuViilJI-MjK35Px4mmXhvAF0W_Wg8Tktq0OCzDei6agUi7HQBVZ_vFRTH22BElu4bCQJc4Wk_gX-K21ge4C4xyx4DtI-oI-vDUF2TIueUNJvt_XsCmY30rt_E/w352-h352/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(1).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love" width="352" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>No matter what you're looking to celebrate, there's a snack bar for that! Here are some of the snack/food bars my school has done in the past:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Chili & Soup Bar </li><li>Taco/Nacho Bar </li><li>Hot Drink Station</li><li>Baked Potato Bar </li><li>Salad Bar </li><li>Apple Bar </li><li>Breakfast Bar </li><li>Dessert Bar</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>There are SO many options out there, I know you'll be able to find something that's just right for your next event. If you're not sure what to choose or need a little more inspiration on how to get your staff snack bar set up, here are my top 6 favorites! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Apple Snack Bar </h2><div>There is no better way to celebrate fall than with an apple bar! This is one of my absolute favorites to use in August or September when apples are ripe and fresh. I originally got this idea from an apple orchard that was down the street from our school. All of the delicious varieties were just begging to be used for something fun! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6fl7ymICYOlpgRn12kJ32E4VROZeSrRb1bv3RIoYbSZQpihEXFX8UmNj1mPM9qmbZ-4wWNXebN46eO2d8HyEGMxuEqEb6hRosPt68uQI41_I7UrA9EO_NbSkK8i6qa3GGtYr0anYYdSLI6x2M6uELHmq5tVGBCaj0PsaLTrKpDgvo9WW1BqWHaLENRFw/s1080/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(3).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="An apple staff snack bar like this is perfect for the fall season." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6fl7ymICYOlpgRn12kJ32E4VROZeSrRb1bv3RIoYbSZQpihEXFX8UmNj1mPM9qmbZ-4wWNXebN46eO2d8HyEGMxuEqEb6hRosPt68uQI41_I7UrA9EO_NbSkK8i6qa3GGtYr0anYYdSLI6x2M6uELHmq5tVGBCaj0PsaLTrKpDgvo9WW1BqWHaLENRFw/w357-h357/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(3).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love Apple Snack Bar" width="357" /></a></div><div>To get started with this idea, you'll need a nice variety of apples. If you don't have an orchard or farmstand market near you, check out your local grocery store to see what's in stock. Large grocery stores usually do a good job of stocking many different varieties in the fall. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you've got your apples, it's time to stock up on toppings! Grab items like caramel sauce, peanut butter, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, coconut flakes, and crushed cookies. Make sure to also get some paper plates, napkins, and apple cutters. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can even include specialty apples as well like caramel apples and chocolate-dipped creations. This is a good idea for staff who might not have time to make their own fancy apple plate and would rather grab and go during a quick break. The sky is really the limit on this one, so feel free to make this idea fit the needs of your school! </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you've got your goodies, arrange them all on a long buffet table and let staff build their own apple treat! I like to use signs and reminders before the event to make sure everyone knows that this treat is available to them in the lounge. If you want a quick and easy way to facilitate this in your school, be sure to <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STAFF-MORALE-Apple-Buffet-and-Toppings-Fun-in-the-Staff-Lounge-8669619" target="_blank">check out this resource</a> that includes fun decorations, labels, and signs for your apple bar! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Staff Salad Bar Luncheon </h2><div>Who doesn't love a good salad bar? I love this idea because it is one of the healthier options out there as far as snack bars go. As teachers and administrators, we know that so many of the goodies we receive are sweets and treats, so it's nice to be able to offer a more health-conscious option from time to time too! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXG7Abqx2VQ5m839MSJBZ6xBAzEvGvDYPv2NvtL0BghQQVNz3zV-K5yzqj7NZSUOkOAn3vGfAgoHU8B8MFhv6fBzDI4OBqaPdfolp0ja-_ZHjzoSUjAlv6goxO4KCBzmgRS8eUPjRzjeZ2ydiHQ3Ii-gbX8Vg1UwkY6FUqvLV_TImQMuvjJrAAsbAHvC6K/s1080/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(4).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Celebrate your staff with a healthy staff snack bar which includes salads, fruits, and veggies like these." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXG7Abqx2VQ5m839MSJBZ6xBAzEvGvDYPv2NvtL0BghQQVNz3zV-K5yzqj7NZSUOkOAn3vGfAgoHU8B8MFhv6fBzDI4OBqaPdfolp0ja-_ZHjzoSUjAlv6goxO4KCBzmgRS8eUPjRzjeZ2ydiHQ3Ii-gbX8Vg1UwkY6FUqvLV_TImQMuvjJrAAsbAHvC6K/w360-h360/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(4).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love Salad Bar" width="360" /></a></div><div>Setting up a salad bar is very similar to an apple bar, except you'll be focused on grabbing different types of greens, chopped veggies, salad toppings, and dressings. </div><div><br /></div><div>When hosting my own salad bar, I used signs, labels, and reminders from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Salad-Bar-Luncheon-3176664?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20SNACK%20BARS" target="_blank">this resource</a>. The printables make planning and coordinating salad bar day a breeze! </div><div><br /></div><div>Salad bars are really fun to do potluck style as well. Use the included sign-up sheets in this resource to have staff members sign up for an item and make planning this event even more simple. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's always fun to see what types of toppings other staff members enjoy using on their own salads! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Hot Cocoa Bar </h2><div>In the wintertime and around the holidays, nothing feels more cozy to me than a hot cocoa bar. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgity3yBWTk76hhpQztoAdPQ-otKKliawNQWybgTh5DU2KOvUbqbdzFYD_4lb3sFrsievdu5yejDXjRNC3T6EV88UV6iSDePpCkqq3UXM1fgyCa0CyUo7LBZeMcL5Fy7rlB1_OdNVQfIK6K01QI4Sj0jtQgDKJympzLv61T7WwX0ALimOIUc1mN74-083Pz/s1080/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(5).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A hot cocoa staff snack bar like this is a great way to show your staff how much you appreciate them during the cold winter months." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgity3yBWTk76hhpQztoAdPQ-otKKliawNQWybgTh5DU2KOvUbqbdzFYD_4lb3sFrsievdu5yejDXjRNC3T6EV88UV6iSDePpCkqq3UXM1fgyCa0CyUo7LBZeMcL5Fy7rlB1_OdNVQfIK6K01QI4Sj0jtQgDKJympzLv61T7WwX0ALimOIUc1mN74-083Pz/w364-h364/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(5).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love Hot Cocoa Bar" width="364" /></a></div>We often used this for our staff meeting in December. Everyone was eager to attend knowing that before we got started they'd get to make their own special mug of cozy cocoa just the way they liked it! </div><div><br /></div><div>This one is really easy to orchestrate and requires minimal supplies as well, which is always a plus in my book! </div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to make a few pots of homemade cocoa for this special event. But to save time you can grab premade chocolate milk from the grocery store and warm it in a crockpot. The other easy option is having hot water and cocoa packets available. </div><div><br /></div><div>Whatever route you choose, don't forget to serve the hot chocolate alongside toppings such as marshmallows, chocolate chips, candy canes, whipped cream, and fancy syrups. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can also include a big pot of coffee so that people can make a mocha if they prefer! If you want to be extra festive, grab holiday cups and napkins to use as well. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Christmas-Staff-Appreciation-Hot-Cocoa-Bar-8717749?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20SNACK%20BARS" target="_blank">This resource</a> includes my own recipe for slow cooker cocoa along with all of the other printable materials you'll need to make your cocoa bar a success! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Trail Mix Snack Bar </h2><div>Looking for a simple snack bar option that staff can grab throughout the day? <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Trail-Mix-Bar-10664789?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20SNACK%20BARS" target="_blank">This trail mix snack bar </a>is perfect for you! This idea is so great if you want to be able to show some appreciation for staff during a busy week or if you're having trouble coordinating break schedules. Staff can stop by and make their own little trail mix when they're free and no refrigeration is required! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0C87RC-NUOaNbcw0fM3aZrCLBhcRyfmTawjAzCFTqZyb0ZQizJL-QWZQVKjutNQ0VPu3wTklxuKgZ86fF3eowr9_KQf0jy5rnJVnQp1YjJIPRMX1eVBD5J4Ad3Vnd8UNsbfqEuXW-kXQkozw8GcCLpH83J8hcOsATkdIsiXaCneUOJbKoch0ElvGRhvi/s1080/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(6).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Make snacking simple with a trail mix staff snack bar like this for your staff to enjoy throughout the day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0C87RC-NUOaNbcw0fM3aZrCLBhcRyfmTawjAzCFTqZyb0ZQizJL-QWZQVKjutNQ0VPu3wTklxuKgZ86fF3eowr9_KQf0jy5rnJVnQp1YjJIPRMX1eVBD5J4Ad3Vnd8UNsbfqEuXW-kXQkozw8GcCLpH83J8hcOsATkdIsiXaCneUOJbKoch0ElvGRhvi/w358-h358/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(6).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love Trail Mix Bar" width="358" /></a></div><div>This one is super customizable too, which is great for staff members with allergies. I like to offer a TON of options for this one such as: </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>mixed nuts</li><li>shelled sunflower seeds</li><li>small crackers</li><li>popcorn </li><li>candy </li><li>dried fruits </li><li>chocolate chips </li><li>pretzels </li><li>granola </li><li>cereal, etc. </li></ul><div>When setting this one up, I always try to make sure everything is kept in its own bowl, with its own spoon to avoid cross-contamination. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you have staff members with severe nut allergies in your school, I recommend keeping those on a separate table just to make sure things don't get mixed up. I know your staff will appreciate this one, especially during a busy time like testing week! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Cereal Bar </h2><div>Speaking of testing week, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Cereal-and-Breakfast-Bar-8963594?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20SNACK%20BARS" target="_blank">this cereal bar</a> is a great option for that time of year too. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Cereal-and-Breakfast-Bar-8963594?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20SNACK%20BARS" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A cereal bar like this is a great staff snack bar option you can use before staff meetings or at the beginning of a long teacher conference day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFGK8YzOZiGCacLZQ5mHmH6dddBdjMjNxwthSvKAx0P1j3dA6T4mCjHtjrWX94Le54lT8MiYzYd4M5Zqnp1px2t7KXZPxkLnb_0pZYaPiP_Vjr6L-yQreamW8AhrvswXAwhmMkOaVAlK80-t509qSxgevhyW8ffxW_FFK_-s_4M7tROWruFNOPQFmkyMl/w362-h362/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(9).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love Cereal Bar" width="362" /></a></div>Everyone always tells the students to eat a good breakfast, but the teachers and staff need one during this stressful time too! </div><div><br /></div><div>But a cereal bar also works well at the beginning of the year as staff are settling back into their routines and might be short on time in the mornings. Really, you can't go wrong with a cereal bar any time of the year!</div><div><br /></div><div>To set up your own cereal bar, I recommend rounding up as many different types of cereals as you can find along with an assortment of milk options. </div><div><br /></div><div>Get regular dairy milk, as well as other options like almond milk and soy milk for those with allergies. </div><div><br /></div><div>I also recommend grabbing some sliced fruit for topping as well as juice and coffee. Set these items up with your paper bowls, cups, and utensils and you're good to go! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is such a great way to show appreciation for staff and help them fuel up for the day! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Taco or Nacho Bar </h2><div>Most everybody loves tacos, and who can blame us? They're so versatile and delicious! Hosting a taco or a nacho bar is a fun way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, the big game, or even a regular old Tuesday! No matter what the occasion,<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Taco-Luncheon-Cinco-de-Mayo-Staff-Activity-8622206" target="_blank"> this one</a> is always a staff favorite. </div><div><br /></div><div>Personally, I think this idea works best as a potluck since there are so many components to great tacos! I used sign-up sheets to have staff members volunteer to bring items such as:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Taco-Luncheon-Cinco-de-Mayo-Staff-Activity-8622206" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Everyone loves tacos and nachos so include these tasty treats in your next staff snack bar for instant success." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7QhqTu6FtityiMeTGeLz3jScT3A-Fsa7uMtfbccNDBNgmOWGT0VQ716OpAtuzlzKi4wxlDqaVCx8VIb6GSZELSQg9tuP9G8ApPOiqgGgURoXUmXdeD9Xybd57yIfw-O1EeZEWitBKgUElkNRE2TsWmN3ju61ThpAcDxXE4a99f7erBIZXuIltTOby2DA2/w362-h362/6%20Tasty%20Staff%20Snack%20Bars%20Everyone%20Will%20Love%20images%20(8).png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love Taco or Nacho Bar" width="362" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>taco meat (chicken, beef, pork, plant-based, etc.)</li><li>beans </li><li>shredded cheese</li><li>shredded lettuce </li><li>chopped onions and tomatoes</li><li>guacamole</li><li>chips</li><li>tortillas, etc. </li></ul><div>On the day of this event, staff members set up their slow cookers full of taco meat and beans. These can stay on warm to heat up throughout the morning.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then, when lunchtime rolls around we all work together to set out the rest of the toppings and fixins. Everyone loves to visit and chat while they enjoy their meal and celebrate as a group! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Tips for Staff Snack Bar Success</h2><div>No matter which option you choose, I know your staff snack bar will be a hit! Just be sure to keep a few things in mind to ensure things run smoothly:</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Post signs and reminders leading up to the event. </li><li>Be sure to provide plenty of notice if you're hosting a "potluck style" snack bar. </li><li>Be mindful of allergies and food preferences. </li><li>Don't forget plates, napkins, and utensils. </li><li>Be creative and have fun! </li></ol><div>Staff snack bars are such a fun way to mix things up with your staff and show appreciation all year long. If you're looking for even more fun ways to celebrate with your staff, be sure to<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STAFF%20SNACK%20BARS" target="_blank"> check out my shop!</a> You'll find tons of helpful resources to make your staff smile and bring a little sunshine to your school! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Pin this post to your favorite staff morale Pinterest board to keep track of these staff snack bar ideas!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphUA6JiDx_CDOIEgQSX8T9xIJU6B7N50Y8rKyoIUNxzJ7nCUo_kYmuiBk8bzNAj18WNgzRLutSnT-7aqUDb1p6nF1eV66rAIdR7JUv5_EL_lI6Fixt0KZQbn1J3mHcv85fN1riS7QHDly9NZyB421632-t4fECVqOs28P9GAEzdNgS0A7fcpqe2KwHTHV/s1500/4.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun and creative ways to show your staff how much they mean to you? Use these creative and delicious staff snack bar options to treat your staff to yummy goodness throughout the school year. From apple snack bars in the fall to breakfast staff snack bars these are sure to be a huge hit with your staff. #tarynsuniquelearning #staffsnackbars #snackbarideas #teachertreats #teacherappreciation" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphUA6JiDx_CDOIEgQSX8T9xIJU6B7N50Y8rKyoIUNxzJ7nCUo_kYmuiBk8bzNAj18WNgzRLutSnT-7aqUDb1p6nF1eV66rAIdR7JUv5_EL_lI6Fixt0KZQbn1J3mHcv85fN1riS7QHDly9NZyB421632-t4fECVqOs28P9GAEzdNgS0A7fcpqe2KwHTHV/w252-h379/4.png" title="6 Tasty Staff Snack Bars Everyone Will Love" width="252" /></a></div><br /><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-39659018940301755442023-12-20T13:02:00.000-08:002023-12-20T13:02:42.909-08:007 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special As a teacher in the primary classroom, you probably already know how important student birthdays are. Celebrating student birthdays helps cultivate a sense of community in the classroom and makes each kiddo feel special! If you're looking for ways to make celebrating a doable part of the routine, come along to see some of my favorite ways to make student birthdays special! <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujWTx-2YXc-CD-QtsLTvyRoB2V2p86fvy0N0JToJTtP88HwdkQfeC3RAktgGwD-lL7MRZSkn-rd2X9JdCd-EOHeTbn0UL9Lhqjjgtzbj2vhnYwYHuVw-sTLAmAnH4ADUya3Bvu2SHzP-bYoXIavYIYNnKS70FKqWOpP0PCS5FhBTX01ZT29FNCMrdf4hc/s2240/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 7 ideas for making student birthdays special in your classroom this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujWTx-2YXc-CD-QtsLTvyRoB2V2p86fvy0N0JToJTtP88HwdkQfeC3RAktgGwD-lL7MRZSkn-rd2X9JdCd-EOHeTbn0UL9Lhqjjgtzbj2vhnYwYHuVw-sTLAmAnH4ADUya3Bvu2SHzP-bYoXIavYIYNnKS70FKqWOpP0PCS5FhBTX01ZT29FNCMrdf4hc/w640-h360/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20header.png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special" width="640" /></a></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why Celebrating Student Birthdays Matters</h2><div>Before we dive into my ideas for making student birthdays special, let's chat about the why behind this! Chances are, if you're a classroom teacher you probably love being part of a community. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp933DIHiPm8b05v74Mmjedr9zB6X4YLWxemGA8NM5k2aYnS3epF_5GMXboMluUlIco6dK9BNv8x8g7fRZL49Jj1DTBYcXJsVtnrE3nXAnyZATbkRLjNObbsP5Wz1oFNaa_wpOe632ERKd3t4AtHAZsdLbn979AWtbrhq0bw7Z4xrjkB9GjR9BqW4u6WpJ/s1080/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(6).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Build community and help each and every student feel special by making student birthdays a special celebration throughout the school year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp933DIHiPm8b05v74Mmjedr9zB6X4YLWxemGA8NM5k2aYnS3epF_5GMXboMluUlIco6dK9BNv8x8g7fRZL49Jj1DTBYcXJsVtnrE3nXAnyZATbkRLjNObbsP5Wz1oFNaa_wpOe632ERKd3t4AtHAZsdLbn979AWtbrhq0bw7Z4xrjkB9GjR9BqW4u6WpJ/w353-h353/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(6).png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special" width="353" /></a></div></div><div>Teachers play a vital role in cultivating a sense of community in the classroom, and celebrating with students is a great way to do so. </div><div><br /></div><div>Aside from helping to strengthen your classroom community, celebrating also offers an opportunity for students to feel special. Young children love having a day that's all their own. While many students will be celebrating at home with their families, not every child will get to do so. Taking time to recognize them in your classroom will help them to feel valued and cared for. </div><div><br /></div><div>And finally, celebrating birthdays is just plain fun! Once you've got a routine in place for birthdays, they will become a joyful experience rather than a disruption to routine. Your students will love it and I'm willing to bet it will put a smile on your face too! </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, onto my favorite ways to celebrate student birthdays in the primary classroom! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Start the Day with a Crown </h2><div>In my opinion, every student needs a birthday crown! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDefRei5Sg_Hhzdx_mxLtg8Efpiy2oWN5d2K-Blyigjj2Sw1ETFphRl5YzQqngAQ6cL-6kzCPSuZRRGxX1dmyqcPZ0FhwMYzXaPq38Kp4IliPrvpNXaRQ4tBEJaASNrmKXarw3lVL1vpudjrRiDbArdEAQuJouh1UAzGZLOkD8xU5Pe657CjKC-Hblg2OT/s1080/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(5).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Create a simple birthday crown like this to help make student birthdays extra special for each student." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDefRei5Sg_Hhzdx_mxLtg8Efpiy2oWN5d2K-Blyigjj2Sw1ETFphRl5YzQqngAQ6cL-6kzCPSuZRRGxX1dmyqcPZ0FhwMYzXaPq38Kp4IliPrvpNXaRQ4tBEJaASNrmKXarw3lVL1vpudjrRiDbArdEAQuJouh1UAzGZLOkD8xU5Pe657CjKC-Hblg2OT/w356-h356/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(5).png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special Birthday Crown" width="356" /></a></div>When I was still in the classroom, I always took a few minutes to make students a simple crown to kick off the day. </div><div><br /></div><div>For this, I took a piece of long construction paper folded in half lengthwise. Then, cut a jagged crown shape. It doesn't need to be perfect so don't stress about this!</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, take your 2 pieces and staple them together to make a large band. </div><div><br /></div><div>Write "Happy Birthday" with the student's name across the front and staple it to size when they arrive. You can also decorate it with a few stickers if you'd like to jazz it up a bit. Students love wearing these on their special day! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Read a Birthday Book </h2><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ7hWZMPAVrQrtxg_E4cc-1SDMJzgMgLXOhRCgaCoi_d1y5CMNKD4eIeeMCkOzkM1Dw_2R3BQIW-Q-dKrdYq4cw9Leli98G-XoXkbR7YpAB7Hyq6Lnve5lY-kKpC_RxAOY53fvqTQxq8_iQAm3CBsPMqRrFDWV0BsHHms-hRZtF7KwyHDvcWCyhrtFio5e/s1080/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Books like these are a great way to make student birthdays special with a themed read aloud for birthdays." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ7hWZMPAVrQrtxg_E4cc-1SDMJzgMgLXOhRCgaCoi_d1y5CMNKD4eIeeMCkOzkM1Dw_2R3BQIW-Q-dKrdYq4cw9Leli98G-XoXkbR7YpAB7Hyq6Lnve5lY-kKpC_RxAOY53fvqTQxq8_iQAm3CBsPMqRrFDWV0BsHHms-hRZtF7KwyHDvcWCyhrtFio5e/w360-h360/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20.png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special Books" width="360" /></a></div>In my classroom, I had a collection of birthday-themed read-aloud books. I kept them in a birthday gift bag and on a student's birthday, I'd have that child pick a book. There are tons of great books out there but here are some of my personal faves:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3NAGZmC" target="_blank">Happy Birthday Moon by Frank Asch</a> </li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3ND0Dhz" target="_blank">The Night Before My Birthday by Natasha Wing</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3tg6PFy" target="_blank">Happy Birthday To You by Dr. Seuss</a></li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Whenever I saw an inexpensive birthday book in the Scholastic flyer, at a yard sale, or thrift store, I would grab it and add it to my collection. This is a really fun way to start the day during your morning meeting! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Sing The Happy Birthday Song</h2><div>In my classroom, I had this really fun, interactive birthday chart that we used every time someone had a birthday. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd28_yiQ9hDdYk7z3ohF6OTVZaRNFc9H_adlQ0BLcLV1-KrtmPL02OsTehimkYXHeRgDG1bKdbPKjXuhxqHd5JvXERoh3Pj6zdQtrtQ2fwTaMlQor-S9HtJcv1bdU_x5c0trKg-qAFA3g6Wj8f2B8qFlV1h76BYtDajL7UF9oxDDrcVnYP9HJ5G19a7qBk/s1080/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Create a fun chart like this to help your students sing Happy Birthday to make students birthdays special." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd28_yiQ9hDdYk7z3ohF6OTVZaRNFc9H_adlQ0BLcLV1-KrtmPL02OsTehimkYXHeRgDG1bKdbPKjXuhxqHd5JvXERoh3Pj6zdQtrtQ2fwTaMlQor-S9HtJcv1bdU_x5c0trKg-qAFA3g6Wj8f2B8qFlV1h76BYtDajL7UF9oxDDrcVnYP9HJ5G19a7qBk/w361-h361/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20.png" title="celebrating birthdays in the classroom" width="361" /></a></div><div>Mine was shaped like a cake that had sentence strips with the lyrics for the "Happy Birthday Song" on it. </div><div><br /></div><div>On the morning of a birthday, I would add the special student's name and we'd sing along as I pointed to each word. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you don't have a chart like this, try setting up something similar in a pocket chart or making your own poster. You can make a large birthday cake shape or just grab a piece of poster board. Write out the birthday song leaving a blank space where the name would go. Then laminate the poster for durability so you can use it for many years. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, on the morning of a birthday simply write the student's name in the blank using a dry-erase marker. You can also create a name card for each student and connect them to the poster using sticky velcro dots.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's a really easy way to make kids feel special. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Celebrate with More Birthday Songs </h2><div>In my room, we sang a lot of songs throughout the year. We used them in regular lessons, and especially to celebrate fun holidays and birthdays! Our favorite birthday song was by Greg and Steve. I'm pretty sure you can't buy their CDs anymore, but I found it on YouTube if you'd like to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCv6wMoDL04" target="_blank">try this one</a> in your classroom! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LCv6wMoDL04" width="480" youtube-src-id="LCv6wMoDL04"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>When we sing, the birthday boy or girl gets to stand at the front of the room and hold a cake. They also get to answer the questions from the song during the musical pause. The lyrics ask for the name and age. Then for the big finale, the student gets to pretend to blow out the candles when we get to that part of the song. </div><div><br /></div><div>In my classroom, I had a small inflatable cake that was perfect for this. I haven't been able to find a similar mini cake, but a wooden one <a href="https://amzn.to/41zR1tY" target="_blank">like this Melissa and Doug set </a>would also be fun to place on display for the day. This is a great way to celebrate as a class if you're not allowed to have food in your classrooms. <br /></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Make a Plan for Treats</h2><div>Speaking of food in the classrooms, it's a good idea to map out your plan for birthday goodies. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht42wV1mM4IG7sRATzHWwny7YTL4IvDgqXVgM-C5NpbrTAFl2T32LElxzgh-cbhe1CeZZCsBeRBq6HBrai0mLfdwORoZDXe45FuWkVb4CMpeMthwhOP24DlxN168moZjMFOuZx_n0IucZQfYMGupHrDTEKS84yW8Vzfww_Qa7Aafe4I17bBoPV65feNGc_/s1080/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(2).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="While candy and snacks may not be an option when celebrating student birthdays non-edible treats like these are pretty amazing too." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht42wV1mM4IG7sRATzHWwny7YTL4IvDgqXVgM-C5NpbrTAFl2T32LElxzgh-cbhe1CeZZCsBeRBq6HBrai0mLfdwORoZDXe45FuWkVb4CMpeMthwhOP24DlxN168moZjMFOuZx_n0IucZQfYMGupHrDTEKS84yW8Vzfww_Qa7Aafe4I17bBoPV65feNGc_/w357-h357/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(2).png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special Treats" width="357" /></a></div></div><div>In my school, we had a no-food policy due to allergies. This meant that if parents wanted to send in a treat, they needed to be individually wrapped or bagged items that could be sent home. </div><div><br /></div><div>I had my birthday kiddo distribute these in student mailboxes at the end of the day. I also encouraged parents to bring decorative pencils, stickers, mini toys, and small party favors instead of food so that everyone can enjoy them, regardless of allergies! </div><div><br /></div><div>If you are allowed to have food in your classroom I would suggest creating a policy and informing parents at the beginning of the year. The last thing you want is to be surprised with an unexpected birthday party in the middle of your math lesson.</div><div><br /></div><div>Your policy should clearly state what type of food items are allowed under your school or district policy, what time the parents should bring the treats, and ask for the parents to notify you in advance when they plan to send a treat so that you can make sure the schedule is adjusted for that time.</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Use a Birthday Box </h2><div>I loved using a fun birthday "treasure box" for student birthdays. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgAn8ynXZOjS0oadtt59kCjEMHICmicdVK48AHNjKBs-_fCSfZBB1_62KE8tBg1EbsESWJGwUdF-mPJOk9Zgcop_B1GBZFZGLW54-KzHr_6fwas3q26nvC3qt9mA9U0a6chsbUQfIe44lZWdn-EjztSg25lL5iCzN0F3vCikEQuJDLx4Myv0eC7WboIXIo/s1080/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(3).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A prize box like this is an extra way to help your kiddos celebrate student birthdays." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgAn8ynXZOjS0oadtt59kCjEMHICmicdVK48AHNjKBs-_fCSfZBB1_62KE8tBg1EbsESWJGwUdF-mPJOk9Zgcop_B1GBZFZGLW54-KzHr_6fwas3q26nvC3qt9mA9U0a6chsbUQfIe44lZWdn-EjztSg25lL5iCzN0F3vCikEQuJDLx4Myv0eC7WboIXIo/w364-h364/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(3).png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special Prize Box" width="364" /></a></div>I used a sturdy, lidded box that was decorated with wrapping paper. This type of box works well because it looks festive, but the lid comes on and off easily. This box was special and only came out on birthdays. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you have a treasure box in your classroom, I would suggest keeping them separate and have different items in your birthday box. That will keep it feeling extra special all year long.</div><div><br /></div><div>I filled the box with all kinds of small treasures from the dollar store like stencils, bubbles, crayons, bracelets, matchbox cars, and other trinkets. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can often find piñata-type prizes like these in the party section of stores like Walmart and Target too!</div><div><br /></div><div>After singing Happy Birthday, I always let the student choose a gift from the birthday box. Everyone was always SO excited to see what they picked!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Make a Birthday Book </h2><div>Have you ever made <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Student-Birthdays-Class-Books-Birthday-Certificate-and-Crown-Alternatives-10144555?utm_source=TW%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STUDENT%20BIRTHDAYS" target="_blank">birthday books</a> in your classroom? </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Student-Birthdays-Class-Books-Birthday-Certificate-and-Crown-Alternatives-10144555?utm_source=TW%20BLOG&utm_campaign=STUDENT%20BIRTHDAYS" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Help your students remember their special day with a sweet student birthday book like this." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbHCsgBf14YNTjhNfFgI8mL3KG4TtXYmeDDHtcx5RWzpXaLHYhmvz8_kFgZe_3QjPXd2pqgwLlpKSnrFP1dTE1CA9Q8ZjKX9W1tfPrZwnq3UK__OJFzQNy4YUm8ucfb-sPZ2tSxlZws_7YcQDerhahfv6vlo7tD8KPvztS_HtIPltGJ7-Q3RcfB0KRzgyM/w360-h360/7%20Ideas%20for%20Making%20Student%20Birthdays%20Special%20%20(4).png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special Birthday Book" width="360" /></a></div>This idea is a little out of the ordinary birthday celebration and so much fun to complete as a class! </div><div><br /></div><div>I have each birthday student complete a "birthday application" form and the rest of the class completes a page for the book all about the birthday child. The idea here is that everyone will write something special about the birthday boy or girl. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once all of the pages are complete, you will bind the application and pages in order then present the book as a keepsake to the birthday child. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is such a fun way to recognize them and make them feel special! They will love flipping through the book for years to come. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Have Fun Celebrating </h2><div>I hope you enjoyed these ideas to help make celebrating student birthdays a snap! With a routine like this one in place, you'll be able to make every child feel special on their birthday. If you're looking for more fun activities to add to your daily routines, be sure to check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning" target="_blank">TPT shop</a> for ideas! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Pin this post on Pinterest to keep these ideas for student birthdays at your fingertips. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RsPvcpd1OjkGWyM4cmsm3MR24ER6KR9YN7u26doCh-GQe6VOMv91D10ChVJCwfEKQUYG47gA-cuoa2kvCt01V1qvYrTh2bCgjaJqABehZGiZQ0YyNDkLqxlriihiI66WbJ9uxBg1yFcHd5PSdjSFu1i1ay5xd2RkodzAR5n4zkfAYupdFlWDqqbneIRa/s1500/3.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun ways to make your student birthdays extra special this year? Here are 7 fantastic ideas to help you celebrate each and every one of your students this year on their special day. #tarynsuniquelearning #celebratingstudentbirthdaysintheclassroom" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RsPvcpd1OjkGWyM4cmsm3MR24ER6KR9YN7u26doCh-GQe6VOMv91D10ChVJCwfEKQUYG47gA-cuoa2kvCt01V1qvYrTh2bCgjaJqABehZGiZQ0YyNDkLqxlriihiI66WbJ9uxBg1yFcHd5PSdjSFu1i1ay5xd2RkodzAR5n4zkfAYupdFlWDqqbneIRa/w238-h358/3.png" title="7 Ideas for Making Student Birthdays Special" width="238" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-54608365255354863932023-12-12T03:06:00.000-08:002023-12-12T03:06:08.466-08:006 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter<div>Winter is a great time to recognize staff members at your school. This time of year can feel a little drab and gloomy. Help brighten things up with fun and unexpected staff morale boosters! Whether you're looking for staff morale activities that are non-holiday related or need some cozy staff appreciation ideas for January, I've gotcha covered! Let's dive into 6 fun ideas you can use this winter!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8nkyA0I4nA1zJxcCosywF53RoEQXyToXfpnx2s3HOIYy8njGoommXslomJlVIUzCHVZLf0sbh6PeoSqFqyKW09hQCMRJYh0l_AYeKNsBJl1-8aKmMvhThVlP9_dVnRF_ONR4LMngwjDgb-iTcQjcKXnThXfhj2jJ26a-vNXIYx8qCz95-OsaVIyFjan0/s2240/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Implement these cozy staff appreciation ideas for happy teachers this winter." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8nkyA0I4nA1zJxcCosywF53RoEQXyToXfpnx2s3HOIYy8njGoommXslomJlVIUzCHVZLf0sbh6PeoSqFqyKW09hQCMRJYh0l_AYeKNsBJl1-8aKmMvhThVlP9_dVnRF_ONR4LMngwjDgb-iTcQjcKXnThXfhj2jJ26a-vNXIYx8qCz95-OsaVIyFjan0/w640-h360/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter.png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Importance of Staff Appreciation </h2><div>Teachers, school administrators, and staff members are a special kind of people. The members of this group usually have big hearts, a giver's mentality, and a deep dedication to showing up for our kids. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNGsa_cHma8oq5GfGDigvJkOOgbM87RyBHp9_hmbScMQVmgseKkgwk6bb7Lf8YVuw4GPQ9dG33Qtri1WEPyc5V3Wjey-2KXRxPKf_hJp7JoQwJo8FMZ_immqxiluITogncmdavRw6OaE0UIdFfJH3ioaWYjy0bdQaUPtzeS2cd3uWiGKbnPTw5lglonxI/s1080/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(10).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="With the hustle and bustle of the holidays over, it's time to remind your staff how much you appreciate them with thoughtful staff appreciation goodies this winter." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNGsa_cHma8oq5GfGDigvJkOOgbM87RyBHp9_hmbScMQVmgseKkgwk6bb7Lf8YVuw4GPQ9dG33Qtri1WEPyc5V3Wjey-2KXRxPKf_hJp7JoQwJo8FMZ_immqxiluITogncmdavRw6OaE0UIdFfJH3ioaWYjy0bdQaUPtzeS2cd3uWiGKbnPTw5lglonxI/w353-h353/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(10).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter" width="353" /></a></div>These people are changing the future and deserve to be recognized for that! While there are specific days of the year geared towards teacher and staff appreciation, I'd argue that this is something we should practice all year long for strong school morale! </div><div><br /></div><div>Aside from being appreciative to staff, there are even more benefits to boosting morale. We all know that happy staff members are more likely to create a productive work environment for our students. This can help sustain the overall health and social climate of your school, even in these changing times. </div><div><br /></div><div>Winter is an especially good time to lean into fun staff appreciation ideas. After the holidays have come and gone, things can feel a little dreary, and staff need a little sunshine in their days! </div><div><br /></div><div>These winter-themed staff appreciation ideas are just the thing to make teachers and staff smile and show them how much they are valued for their daily efforts!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. January Scratch-Off Tickets </h2><div>Do staff meetings feel a little lackluster in your building lately? If so, I have just the thing to perk up your team! These <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-January-Scratch-Off-Tickets-10471548?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">January Scratch-Off Tickets</a> are aimed at building excitement for meetings while awarding staff for their daily hard work. Talk about a win-win! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-January-Scratch-Off-Tickets-10471548?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use scratch-off tickets like these for an extra special staff appreciation goodie which includes prizes your teachers will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3X-ekrabIZX7dwkjvjHfvInXwkgTn3jo1dkWbaQvGk5ksBkuiNW600nWno4A9FqOddOOwDjSffwcqFLW1W3K-gw77AmUQ9KISFbGB_GTzQBnIfRa4eJg1EAdUhs1Y3aqaNJgthQHZ6ZxQS9dCBCVB72_2GmRb3WmGnTyQo8p3P78Q3ZF_QowOMp3p3cSQ/w351-h351/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(1).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter Scratch off Tickets" width="351" /></a></div><div>This resource uses a fun winter theme on each ticket and allows staff members to uncover a prize. Give these out at your staff meeting and watch the smiles spread across the room! Some of the prizes include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>prime parking spots </li><li>recess coverage </li><li>prepped copies </li><li>jeans day and more! </li></ul><div>These are low-cost, easy-to-make staff appreciation tokens with gifts that faculty will actually want to receive. Use them as prizes during your meeting or hand them out to all attendees. </div><div><br /></div><div>The resource includes two options for printing including information on pre-made scratch-off paper as well as a DIY version so you can choose what works best for your school. </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Winter Staff Appreciation Board</h2><div>What better way to recognize staff than to "shout out" a job well done? </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Winter-Staff-Bulletin-Board-10139875?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A staff appreciation board like this is a great way to showcase all the awesomeness going on where everyone can see." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokuYJvBCBzMNdDH-jvHZr0SeqfNXNFF023TfXC1gDRE5MUzxMc0v1uAwDVmhTLv5w6PVY3xmsFvXxQrqCR3XiFhDeia6LByJr1rADbIrybw58yYM9h9Zp8MSQSQcVr7kJ5DjtyPJZHx3fgoyopKJ_XXHoSl2mYXPug5Oq4jTKH_RCKyYp_DoY4qXE9MF-/w363-h363/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(2).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter Staff Appreciation Board" width="363" /></a></div>This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Winter-Staff-Bulletin-Board-10139875?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">winter staff appreciation bulletin board</a> is a great way to spruce up your staff lounge after all of the holiday decorations have been taken down! </div><div><br /></div><div>This resource includes headings, decorative accents, and staff recognition tags to make this project simple and easy to put together. </div><div><br /></div><div>Simply add some wintry-themed paper and border to your board, add accents and headings, and then fill out the cards with personalized recognition for staff members. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can have staff recognize each other for a job well done, or principals and administrators can write encouraging notes for each person in the building. Then, all you have to do is put them on display for everyone to see and enjoy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Either way is a great option to show staff that their good deeds are valuable and appreciated! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Staff Snowflake Hunt </h2><div>Ready for something a little different this winter? You'll love this next staff appreciation idea! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Winter-Activities-Snowflake-Hunt-10439494?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">This morale-boosting activity</a> involves a guessing game to find snowflake erasers or table scatter that have been distributed to staff members. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Winter-Activities-Snowflake-Hunt-10439494?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Turn staff appreciation into a game with a fun snowflake hunt activity like this." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipMNU29DUq7L4VkWcVs4s6F5rGkcJjZy2TbAcDqJBYgnF3p4qcpT1ECim_V_4UZFhxGRJKOLJoUzBQ1GaaXmo-9uuWB2UY2RW1DyTobMcjrZa_w2gBj7sZpUD10XpCRT-2KmmgpfcD3zu_tzi5sSF5WesEzy8gwI2q8NeAQGyWcNIBePMgbkz8Y0wMTcje/w361-h361/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(3).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter Snowflake Hunt" width="361" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The idea behind the game is to determine who has a snowflake and acquire one for yourself before it's over! Staff will try and guess who has a snowflake and "steal" it away. The game is played throughout a previously determined day and when the time is up, prizes are distributed. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can even play more than once if you'd like by choosing different types of prizes for each day. One day you might have school supply-themed prizes, the next could be candy and food, and the third could be acts of service. </div><div><br /></div><div>The sky is the limit on this one and it just adds a bit of fun to an otherwise ordinary day. Staff will love shaking things up with this game this winter!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Winter Shout-Out Decorations</h2><div>Are you looking for a fun and simple way to decorate staff lounges and prep areas this winter? </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Shout-Out-Staff-Morale-Winter-Activities-10376387?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Shout out decorations like these are a great way to show staff appreciation in a fun and unique way." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwLtoEexAV0RkmTznTL1HDHjLQRWO4U9XE9Kc7t9S-vher7X9UokkwlNnZmtDcKq1tisWe1hhFDn1EUr72wIbg7LR7HrcV2-Mj1scJKleHok_s3QfgPLDpFBnzMdsueTPJzdpcBNHyd06jHIXJLP_n254zY1ZXneEC9RXGwt6Jp0sTJHzadWtI42k9BXt/w352-h352/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(2).png" title="Winter Staff Moral Boosters" width="352" /></a></div><div>You'll love these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Shout-Out-Staff-Morale-Winter-Activities-10376387?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">Staff Shout-Out Decorations</a> that are aimed at showing appreciation for your team! </div><div><br /></div><div>Use these printable signs to decorate bathroom mirrors, bulletin boards, the staff lounge, and more. </div><div><br /></div><div>Each sign has a fun and motivational winter saying that will make staff smile and add a bit of seasonal flair to your building. </div><div><br /></div><div>These would also be fun to print in bulk and leave in the staff lounge with a supply of pens. Staff members can jot down notes to each other on the back and leave them in mailboxes or post them on classroom doors throughout the month to show appreciation for each other. </div><div><br /></div><div>Recognizing things like patience, kindness, tidy classrooms, and prompt arrival goes a long way in making staff feel valued and part of a great team! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Soup Luncheon Potluck</h2><div>This next option is my absolute favorite winter potluck idea! Have you ever hosted a soup luncheon? The idea behind this is that everyone signs up for and brings different soups to school to share. This one takes a bit of planning, but it's well worth it in my opinion. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Potluck-Soup-Luncheon-6740019?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Organize a soup luncheon potluck as a way to celebrate your teachers and as a fun and cozy staff appreciation opportunity." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNpWYDQJU-m-pNd3u0N7IbQE9bWPIrUBc2kMrAKKnn6n706Fs8qQBw_WdBRsoO2030ZfKrHX5TffEtYcmJrXa9PhWYDNzTRf_jkWcKAqulkLEY0f3edOUIj8aT4IGFoDArhCyk6JbDpg3WA7W6SfsOibRsaYQMlYex5Eu-uAeBnqY2g7dZiD2DwxvWYws/w361-h361/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(6).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter Soup Luncheon Potluck" width="361" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>To host this event, put out the sign-up sheets in advance and allow everyone to sign up for different soups. You could also have each team decide on the soup they will bring. If possible, try to encourage a certain number of specific types to allow for variety. You might ask for a few vegetarian options, a few chili-style soups, and maybe a few cream-based soups to offer a little something for everyone! And... don't forget to include salad, bread and/or crackers if you'd like to have those options.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the day of, set up a few tables with power strips for everyone to plug in their crock pots full of soup. I also recommend using signs and labels to make sure everyone knows what is what. The soups can simmer away and warm up all morning long. </div><div><br /></div><div>When lunch rolls around, everyone will be excited to taste the different soups and enjoy them with crusty bread or crackers. This soup potluck is the perfect activity to help staff feel warm and cozy in the winter! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Potluck-Soup-Luncheon-6740019?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">Check out this resource</a> for everything you need to successfully host this event! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Frosty Friday Treat</h2><div>I saved the best for last! If you're looking to treat staff members, you'll love this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Frosty-Friday-Treat-10427765?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">Frosty Friday Treat!</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Frosty-Friday-Treat-10427765?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Get a local business involved in staff appreciation with a fun Friday treat like this." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVOiDuksxgVspk3RHMOVZzoQLVw0BYubOPxsbqG-xkNOIf2LRQ9QohMxMYKls_MbCS6b7hd61icKTneQmO5jkiw7wwdzXzPWXe20CGIsi-rqOAeBcJjQgk0M3CWnYq_mzHYXgAW-z2uy8M0-0_QT4L_tFTb2d064Yx7qE85bvRom56Dmh9tmtLt4Goszy/w365-h365/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(7).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter Frosty Friday" width="365" /></a></div>This idea involves coordinating with your local Wendy's restaurant to get all of your team members a delicious frosty. If you don't have a Wendy's near you, consider alternatives that would work as a good swap. In my opinion, any type of ice cream, milkshake, or other frozen dessert would make a perfect alternative! </div><div><br /></div><div>Hang up signs around the school in staff areas the week you plan to have treats available. This way, all staff members will know they can swing by the lounge during lunch to pick up their frosty treat! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great token of appreciation for staff at the end of the month to recognize their hard work and let them know they are valued in your school. </div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone loved Frosty Friday at my school, and I know your staff members will too! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Staff Appreciation Winter Bundle </h2><div>Are you having a hard time choosing a favorite in this round-up of winter staff appreciation ideas? If so, check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-WINTER-ACTIVITIES-BUNDLE-10477031?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" target="_blank">BUNDLE,</a> which includes all 6 resources! This bundle will help ensure you're keeping your staff motivated and excited to come to work all winter long, without having to spend hours planning and prepping. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-WINTER-ACTIVITIES-BUNDLE-10477031?utm_source=TARYN%20BLOG&utm_campaign=WINTER%20STAFF%20APPRECIATION" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this bundle for low prep printable staff appreciation ideas you can use all winter long." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGoEtpWzrrt_vgXl5i9y6LYz_2ukM6yIvO6F6n_CLpuvntn8d6BD69ghxGq5cd6yQSZsB1oiYCJqqsREbiQ84aT9EzfxZxLJc2qfPA90dcOnKk2r6fgjgH38-yh00stRGzd__BdY47roCKLnc-8Ag6jXQPGJCfZS1xPJPbV-b-7lc1h6jNuu_TBIwKXgd/w320-h320/6%20Cozy%20Staff%20Appreciation%20Ideas%20for%20Winter%20(8).png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>These ideas make staff appreciation simple and easy to incorporate into your monthly routine. Have fun celebrating your staff this winter and don't forget, a little sunshine is all it takes to make your school feel cozy and your staff feel appreciated! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save these Winter Staff Appreciation Ideas! </h2><div>Save this post on your favorite Staff Appreciation Pinterest board so that you'll be armed with fun ideas to boost staff morale all winter long!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX47fhsnv1dgtdwuIXssw03LOed1_DmXsInSFRlbqi5qnfNgtKrFLtqKXwSZtzby1ncFqx8fDdpmdSTYuyFmVH6t0PLHTvTL-gzrlKCRE27HlVFjnH1NwLMz5PgINGM4IC8zs_iDn5IuoYYocr9ztgXtLTYq4aaVFh7W6-YVOxTB98ys8VfyqL2pjm63LP/s1500/2.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun and cozy staff appreciation ideas for the winter months? These 6 staff appreciation ideas and resources come with everything you need to plan amazing ways to show your staff how much they mean to you and the school community this winter. #tarynsuniquelearning #staffappreciationideasforwinter #winterstaffappreciation #staffappreciationideas" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX47fhsnv1dgtdwuIXssw03LOed1_DmXsInSFRlbqi5qnfNgtKrFLtqKXwSZtzby1ncFqx8fDdpmdSTYuyFmVH6t0PLHTvTL-gzrlKCRE27HlVFjnH1NwLMz5PgINGM4IC8zs_iDn5IuoYYocr9ztgXtLTYq4aaVFh7W6-YVOxTB98ys8VfyqL2pjm63LP/w213-h320/2.png" title="6 Cozy Staff Appreciation Ideas for Winter" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-43781415057467120622023-11-18T13:05:00.000-08:002023-11-18T13:05:10.676-08:00Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine!Building and keeping staff morale strong is a direct result of continued action throughout the year. This ongoing process does require effort, but it's well worth it to make your staff feel appreciated on a daily basis. One of my best tips for making it a little easier is creating a Staff Morale Hub or Staff Sunshine Corner at your school. Set this up once and watch as your staff form meaningful bonds and connections throughout the year! <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtlIDY1SI4BnR_0SYfgBTjFxgtLtAK6-3OezS18O5ztjkUSyuK7w9HOz15C9ax6T_laHKHmLe1T6EzdUyg8VR6IRQ1el9N1Y1QbRR6mz_h997JiSBt8z_bndgfOChmp0efX1B1jHjiw7WfHTeH8Kpe1qP3lYktLaEfY-rJAboyUdS-jr_eQHc3veUi8k7/s2240/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Learn how to create a staff morale hub with these easy to implement tips and simple resources you can put into use starting today." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtlIDY1SI4BnR_0SYfgBTjFxgtLtAK6-3OezS18O5ztjkUSyuK7w9HOz15C9ax6T_laHKHmLe1T6EzdUyg8VR6IRQ1el9N1Y1QbRR6mz_h997JiSBt8z_bndgfOChmp0efX1B1jHjiw7WfHTeH8Kpe1qP3lYktLaEfY-rJAboyUdS-jr_eQHc3veUi8k7/w640-h360/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20Header.png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is a Staff Morale Hub? </h2><div>First off, if you're wondering what I'm talking about, let me explain. </div><div><br /></div><div>A staff morale hub, also known as a staff sunshine corner, is a central location where staff can go to find goodies and notices related to them. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSQ4Ge2X9fS0whHfLGDbhorOxlAzNuGRO7mY78mlaIExEtKhJPNPfuS1UNGrvLG4zpoBssunNxazpHilK_VxEPU6AZcqR9xkZwGaM6YEzcx-Yp5Z2gdCX7yWQ1EdG3fOM_EsjtLIPOEIePx2Pengw_C4lcAXAWihT6KuaOTIynVA6ClbNRt7Qq2QzhraQm/s1080/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A staff morale hub is a central location in your school where you can include anything and everything to show your staff how much you appreciate them throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSQ4Ge2X9fS0whHfLGDbhorOxlAzNuGRO7mY78mlaIExEtKhJPNPfuS1UNGrvLG4zpoBssunNxazpHilK_VxEPU6AZcqR9xkZwGaM6YEzcx-Yp5Z2gdCX7yWQ1EdG3fOM_EsjtLIPOEIePx2Pengw_C4lcAXAWihT6KuaOTIynVA6ClbNRt7Qq2QzhraQm/w358-h358/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!.png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine" width="358" /></a></div>Ideally, it should be a little corner that's big enough for a cart or table, and have a bit of wall space for displays. This area is usually outside of the principal's office, or in the staff lounge so it's easy to access and most staff see it regularly. </div><div><br /></div><div>The idea behind a staff morale hub or staff sunshine station is to have a place where staff can find things that will encourage them, thank them, support them, and overall help boost morale. </div><div><br /></div><div>Holiday event notices should be here, as well as sign-ups for potlucks, and even special treats! As the coordinator for the Sunshine Committee for many years at my school, I loved getting this area set up because it was one of the best ways to make staff feel appreciated on a daily basis. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Set-Up & Materials</h3><div>Before we can decorate and add all the goodies, you'll want to make sure you have an area that will work. Talk to your principal and/or other administrators about where a good spot for this might be. Then, you'll want to make sure you have a couple of clear walls. Corner spots work well for this purpose! And finally, you'll want to secure some kind of table or cart to place everything on. </div><div><br /></div><div>In my school, we used a large media cart for this job. It was tall enough to be table height, had storage space underneath, and was easy to roll in and out! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What Goes in a Staff Morale Hub? </h2><div>Now, on to the fun stuff, stocking your staff morale hub! This is the really fun part, where you get to instill personality and plenty of sunshine into your Staff Morale Hub. Remember, the idea is to help staff feel appreciated, supported, and like they're all part of one big family. Being intentional in choosing materials that will support that goal is key. Here are 13, fun things I recommend stocking your Staff Sunshine Corner with for maximum effectiveness:</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Staff Bulletin Board </h3><div>On the large wall behind your cart, I recommend using a bulletin board or making a mock one on the wall. This comes in handy for hanging important notices, event posters, and even fun memes to make the staff laugh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Bulletin-Board-Letters-7419573?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a staff bulletin board or shout-out board as part of your staff morale hub to keep information and celebrations in a centralized location." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTWkdipTGUzok_b9NM-eE2WwlBqhGWVX2VxfG-72PYcdCF6LrlEBEXuwdrSWn5VE8C410hXKF8Bb47KuW0VCiDY_TEbAd_wSIiHURqTE3y4v1cr5BS13ZL1EdU_NpTSNF90AdZvFw9beaxpjXmpy-DfIgDJ9xoc0rhAxGfV7tfD-IezYWmEQJ4oXewxtR/w361-h361/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(7).png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine" width="361" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>In the spirit of spreading sunshine, I always used bright and happy colors for this along with a fun <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Bulletin-Board-Letters-7419573?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">header like this one.</a> Feel free to get creative with this and add seasonal decor too! These small touches help bring your staff morale hub to life. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Staff Shout-Out Board</h3><div>If you happened to secure a corner for your staff morale hub, I recommend using the smaller wall on the side of your table or cart of a Staff Shout-Out Board. This simple idea encourages staff to recognize each other for acts of kindness and service. it has a way of snowballing and spreading sunshine like crazy too! </div><div><br /></div><div>To prep this, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STAFF-MORALE-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Shout-Out-Board-4629228?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">print out a staff shoutout board here</a> and provide staff with post-its and markers. You can even print it poster size and place it in a large frame if you want to go the extra mile. Then, add a few notes to get the ball rolling and watch the shout-outs multiply. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. District Calendar </h3><div>While the staff morale hub is mostly for spreading sunshine and boosting morale, it should also be practical. Adding a district calendar to your main bulletin board is a must! You can also add any important notices specific to your district as well. Make sure to set a reminder to swap these out seasonally, if needed!</div><div><br /></div><div><h3>4. Check-In Sunshine Corner</h3><div>This can be used for lots of different things, but it seems like it's most often used for sign-ups. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8cniaaN1ems65AFv1I0yjxTx4nh1x_6azCrGmo001qpXsxTo_npWShM1UvhUIf7mSnpFa0DYti-UiDZSm-JjUontAIIrC_9yNPDdjq0QrT0wuGi2nBDp6v8U2gOpWUV04HatMzEtHN9tce8TbN24reKdBnNcSAMAgwKKwpYwn_sX6FtJsuFkFdVBEF4f/s1080/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(2).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A check in sunshine corner is a great addition to your staff morale hub because it gives you a dedicated space to keep announcements and sign ups for your staff." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8cniaaN1ems65AFv1I0yjxTx4nh1x_6azCrGmo001qpXsxTo_npWShM1UvhUIf7mSnpFa0DYti-UiDZSm-JjUontAIIrC_9yNPDdjq0QrT0wuGi2nBDp6v8U2gOpWUV04HatMzEtHN9tce8TbN24reKdBnNcSAMAgwKKwpYwn_sX6FtJsuFkFdVBEF4f/w367-h367/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(2).png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine Check in Sunshine Corner" width="367" /></a></div>At my school, we had a lot of events, so whatever was upcoming was always placed on the Sunshine Corner bulletin board. </div><div><br /></div><div>That way staff could quickly check and see if they were interested in participating. </div><div><br /></div><div>Some schools also require a daily check-in for staff. </div><div><br /></div><div>In which case, this Sunshine Corner bulletin board would be perfect for that! </div><div><br /></div><div>This helps to get staff to the area daily and they can take a quick peek at the board and see what's coming up. </div></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">5. Basket of Blank Thank You Notes</h3><div>This is such a simple add-on to your staff morale hub but it truly makes a world of difference! Grab a basket or bucket and fill it with blank Thank-You cards. I found a bunch at the dollar store. Then, as staff need them, they can grab a card or two to use. Over the years, I found that staff often brought in their own cards to donate as well and spread the gratitude!</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">6. Staff Address Book </h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Morale-Staff-Address-Book-4385187?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Include a staff address book in your staff morale hub for anyone who wants to send notes, thank you cards, or special gifts to staff throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9eEhKXaBeIusM4kDW7F0qXaB68J6iU-o4ZR-vyb8nkV0Duow1PjtfFCWy6IYns_UgVk-HUdIUMLbGZVhZd9KacHm6RWb3vwF6L1eHQtKz57DflQ2QtP_MSdMVmElTpo0NSQPscwQIveX-zgE6COPoNMTvvQtdOkLh8A4l6gX7UFIKC7q4S6uQfZ2HY8O/w368-h368/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(1).png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine Staff Address Book" width="368" /></a></div>At one point, our district stopped sharing staff contact information. </div><div><br /></div><div>At my school, we were used to sending cards to each other at various times throughout the year, so I made a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Morale-Staff-Address-Book-4385187?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">Staff Address Book</a> for anyone who wanted to participate. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Staff Sunshine Corner is a great place to store this book in case anyone wants to send a thank you note, holiday card, or get well card to a staff member. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">7. Staff Favorites Book</h3><div>The Staff Morale Hub is also a great place to store a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">Staff Favorites Book</a>. This is a binder or booklet filled with forms that share everyone's favorite things. Some of the items on the list include favorite hot drinks, fast food, candy, pens, and more! I always passed out these forms at the beginning of the year, then filled up a binder and left this out for staff to access as needed. </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">8. Candy Bowl </h3><div>Goodies of some kind are another must for this area, in my opinion! At my school, my principal liked to take on the responsibility of keeping this stocked. You can also fund this in other ways as well, or take turns filling it by grade level. No matter what you choose, it's nice to have a little treat available for staff at all times in the staff morale hub. </div><div></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">9. Staff Birthday Display </h3><div>I don't know about you guys, but our school LOVED <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Birthday-Bulletin-Board-Birthday-Chart--9883176?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">celebrating birthdays!</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Birthday-Bulletin-Board-Birthday-Chart--9883176?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A staff morale hub with a birthday bulletin board is a great way to help everyone remember special birthdays throughout the school year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9frYBPjaPNYLqjStn5WnoxpIZluC4qxv2VQ3od9B1D8IBYnrEb-7gidKD-aeXx2m11oxl1drM4jtYObfPiB_7SNi65xV-S33uwRUSPbqm3uN45EZ1GlUTc5R7L24CDK7jlAmxEEJvYq6MkbaZcv4EeMsLyxvImL8rgS3IqHnq4wVpnyG9GZAcFPsYdC7a/w369-h369/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(3).png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine Birthday Bulletin Board" width="369" /></a></div>In my school, I always made sure there was a spot on the bulletin board for the current monthly birthday display, as well as the bound birthday book. </div><div><br /></div><div>We all know how busy the school year gets. So, when we can take a minute to show your staff that you remember their special day it makes a big impact on morale!</div><div><br /></div><div>As an extra special bonus, the bound book was a way to peek at upcoming birthdays and the display showed the ones for the current month.</div><div><br />Our staff always loved seeing whose birthday was coming up, and then flipping through the Staff Favorites Book to surprise them with something they enjoyed! </div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">10. Kindness Plates </h3><div>This area is also a great spot to store some Kindness Plates for staff to pass around. If you've never heard of them before, they're easy and fun to use. Here's the idea: a Kindness Plate gets filled with a special treat, lunch, office supplies, or other fun goodies. Then it gets left for a teacher or staff member. That person gets to enjoy everything on the plate, and then it's their turn to fill it and gift it to someone else. </div><div><br /></div><div>At my school, we had 5 Kindness Plates in rotation all year long. Our rule of thumb was that once you received it, the kindness plate would be filled up again and passed on within a week. This is a fun way to encourage staff members, say thank you, or just spread a little sunshine!</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">11. Staff BINGO </h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Bingo-4143462?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A BINGO style activity like this is a great addition to your staff morale hub because it creates a fun daily check in activity for your staff." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh792gfAD8KEoG5wPIwHemI0lZf1jimiZJiKJDu52f-AHIFBsVPVuy0telJ7x3NTQaWGgxFZXPQZQLkvrubNd0If2uVtFwJGNS57KYxYxgpxVa-MIaRlAzJWbOoYKsAC0sdxz38vmUBgU_evoJsPAPVmJo3ZYP5JXPset_wrJZfsfCN0G51zEFklQIKpIY5/w373-h373/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(4).png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine BINGO" width="373" /></a></div>This next idea takes up a fair bit of wall space, but it's great to display in an adjacent area to your Staff Sunshine Corner. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Bingo-4143462?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">Staff BINGO</a> is a fun way to reinvigorate your team and recognize them for all the things they do. </div><div><br /></div><div>Each page on the large BINGO board lists something the staff might do in their daily work. </div><div><br /></div><div>Each day they check the board and see if they completed anything on the board. </div><div><br /></div><div>If they did, they signed their name in that spot. The idea is to get 5 in a row to get a BINGO! </div><div><br /></div><div>This ongoing game is a lot of fun, and if you use Astrobrights paper it really brightens up a room too! </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">12. Collection Envelope for Staff In Need </h3><div>This is an extra added touch, that hopefully you won't need. In the case that you have a staff member who is very sick, in the hospital for an extended amount of time, or otherwise in need, you can start a collection envelope. This is where staff can leave monetary donations to help the staff member and their family out. Staff might also want to drop encouraging notes here as well!</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">13. Random Acts of Kindness Tear-Offs </h3><div></div><div>Last but not least, we all need a few more random acts of kindness in our lives, don't we?! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Posters-7375974?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Get your staff excited about spreading kindness with these random acts of kindness tear off posters to include in your staff morale hub." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY5zwT16q1pM77vhl08T1ZwxnIk40cj0gjzzHVK0pFmlG8aid_GjnwQd-2tsHt2CjkjfkTqfOe6G7DkKETUOL8SqsUTjkMDC7PHEpzjvLivEmfdkqddpylPjMpe-46BT8L4sEw0HNZKirSLQPOtO-e8I0cgyenLxFudyhDM-OTvAF8gsjgJF-y5Iw42qf/w370-h370/Create%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!%20(6).png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine Random Acts of Kindness Tear Offs" width="370" /></a></div><br /></div><div>This is one of my favorites on the list because it promotes genuine and kind acts among staff that seem to boost morale more than anything else. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Posters-7375974?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Creating%20a%20Staff%20Morale%20Hub%20to%20Spread%20a%20Little%20Sunshine!" target="_blank">These tear-off posters</a> offer simple prompts that staff can choose from to pay it forward in some way. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's as simple as tearing or cutting off a prompt and taking it with you to remind yourself to make someone else's day extra special.</div><div><br /></div><div>The prompts include things like bragging about the principal, filling the candy bowl, bringing a colleague a special treat, or bringing a vase of fresh flowers for the lounge. </div><div><br /></div><div>These small acts pay off BIG, and staff love grabbing them as they pass the Staff Morale Hub!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Use a Staff Sunshine Corner All Year </h2><div>So what do you think? Could your school benefit from a Staff Morale Hub or a Sunshine Corner? I sure think so! This project takes a little time to prepare, but I know you'll LOVE it once it's set up. Working with administrators, your principal, or the Sunshine Committee is a great way to get this set up in your school and reap the benefits of it all year long! </div><div><br /></div><div>If you're looking for more ideas on spreading sunshine and boosting staff morale, be sure to check out these posts too:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/08/8-staff-morale-boosters.html" target="_blank">8 Staff Morale Boosters</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/10/blog-post.htmlhttps://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/10/blog-post.html" target="_blank">Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/09/fall-staff-morale-boosters.html" target="_blank">Fun Fall Staff Morale Ideas</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2023/07/back-to-school-staff-more.html" target="_blank">Boost Staff Morale During a New School Year</a></li></ul><div><br /></div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Pin this post on Pinterest to keep these ideas for your Staff Morale Hub handy! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoXY8ro5T4QQ90DuT3o5Hh6iBmT8LnzzfFaKbsFGITkrqFWt-FMlLuQssSp1jk39iObjl2lY04zGtXs4P7V6z0iCh0r_1vzLjJNDaIYS8k4hArLz53vE_mJxT_wQqPu65J0Q0ag6fW57p042aPvyL8R3iFxZv8l4GksgoAG-tLdkV0SNKD7rFrMu6ovaBo/s1500/3.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use a staff morale hub in your school as a way to celebrate your staff and show your appreciate throughout the entire school year. A centralized location in the break room, lunch room, or school office is a great place for a staff morale hub. Use these tips and tricks to set up an amazing staff morale hub in your school this year. #tarynsuniquelearning #staffmoralehub #staffmoraleideas" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoXY8ro5T4QQ90DuT3o5Hh6iBmT8LnzzfFaKbsFGITkrqFWt-FMlLuQssSp1jk39iObjl2lY04zGtXs4P7V6z0iCh0r_1vzLjJNDaIYS8k4hArLz53vE_mJxT_wQqPu65J0Q0ag6fW57p042aPvyL8R3iFxZv8l4GksgoAG-tLdkV0SNKD7rFrMu6ovaBo/w213-h320/3.png" title="Create a Staff Morale Hub to Spread a Little Sunshine" width="213" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-67068412106521026122023-11-08T06:03:00.001-08:002023-11-08T06:03:31.850-08:00Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom<div>If you're a teacher in the primary grades you already know how important center time is! This is where the magic happens and rubber meets the road with daily practice. Having many opportunities to practice important skills is key to success! As a veteran classroom teacher, I found this to be especially true for literacy concepts. Our kiddos need ongoing practice with phonics, and monthly literacy centers are the best way to make it fun! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_AKu5rflb33iMYs5nnW3dNmZK_iiTL1IhAX8hErnDFn4v-ScgOBi8iI2WC9e-DwqsxYKjrAg1Nd5dClZDBi6GT0yvbtD9v-VeN1A38KYDXRhdbuZy0FSx7G9l11Aw7djg0D4GdG9L0VnLG9_FQLlAJTVmlRXOdT_wiHJa64Df-eyzUmKOgYyA6swMPg2r/s2240/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these exciting monthly literacy centers in your classroom for fun hands-on learning activities your students will love during the month of December!" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_AKu5rflb33iMYs5nnW3dNmZK_iiTL1IhAX8hErnDFn4v-ScgOBi8iI2WC9e-DwqsxYKjrAg1Nd5dClZDBi6GT0yvbtD9v-VeN1A38KYDXRhdbuZy0FSx7G9l11Aw7djg0D4GdG9L0VnLG9_FQLlAJTVmlRXOdT_wiHJa64Df-eyzUmKOgYyA6swMPg2r/w640-h360/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20Header.png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What Are Monthly Literacy Centers?</h2><div>Wondering what I mean by monthly literacy centers? I'm talking about activities that will help your students master important phonics skills on a monthly basis. We all know that practice makes perfect, but the key to helping your students actually want to practice is engaging activities! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Christmas-Literacy-Centers-December-Literacy-Activities-7267385?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Students are engaged by the holiday and seasons so use this to help them practice key skills." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsI1E04H9V5bCxs4i5L1EYNIepZR2zzMY5u5w47EViGso2aX6_IthGqNlA_xwezu9KPytr-uT_w1KONfAW-JMKm2wDPgyxXIBaPileVvGw_WrjL9TbWsU8ZYvZ-uuzN9tgTdzN-h2hsDBkEhK_Er9I4YS5xNNgdUWcKTxI4jVWLO2TAFp8ojX1gbKj681/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20(2).png" title="December literacy center activity" width="320" /></a></div>In my room, I loved to tie in holiday and seasonal themes to our monthly learning to help make repetitive tasks more fun. That way, we could target some familiar skills month after month, without center time getting boring. Some of the skills we focused on in literacy centers include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>letter recognition </li><li>letter sounds</li><li>letter fluency </li><li>CVC words</li><li>CVC word fluency </li><li>identifying real vs. nonsense words</li></ul><div>Over the years, I found that these skills were the ones my kindergarten and first-grade students needed the <i>most </i>practice with. Because of this, I decided to focus on crafting monthly lessons that we could use to target these skills through fun holiday and seasonal activities. </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Benefits of Using Monthly Literacy Centers</h2><div>Once I started using monthly literacy centers in the classroom, the payoff was very clear. As a classroom teacher, it was a <i>big </i>win knowing that my students would get the practice they needed with these important literacy skills on a consistent basis. Aside from this obvious benefit, there are a few more that are worth noting too! </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">1. Prep Once and Use Forever! </h3><div>Once you decide on a system that incorporates important literacy skills you're looking to target, you're going to cut down drastically on monthly prep time! For example, in my classroom, once I started using my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/LITERACY-CENTERS-KINDERGARTEN-Year-Long-BUNDLE-7280011?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">Monthly Literacy Centers,</a> I only needed to prep each month once. Then, I'd store them away carefully and use them again next year. There's nothing better than opening up a box of prepped and laminated center activity pieces for the upcoming month to use in your classroom! </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">2. Explain Directions to Students Once </h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Christmas-Literacy-Centers-December-Literacy-Activities-7267385?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="With so many awesome benefits to monthly literacy centers it's no wonder they are popular in primary classrooms around the country." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9zYGDM761V-iK91ow7ymDAC5dWjAxuHGKo4IGjdq_WjANDSoNBWtEcCVFoHP_LicOZAfK24T-ar1U9Euafw5uz1cnszqU85bYJRoKxkKDD5DZXbE0-3P0mM3RPcAuTAjMq1CoY0jGDp5qz_5DgxMzmmo7S793mcuMCpL5_WqGKZ6_rDwiyOzDXL1Gi3E6/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20(1).png" title="December kindergarten center" width="320" /></a></div>Another reason I love using monthly literacy centers is that once students understand the concept of each activity, you'll never have to explain the directions again. </div><div><br /></div><div>Well, maybe not <i>never... </i>We are talking about primary learners here, but you get the picture! </div><div><br /></div><div>Students will recognize the activities and get excited as they begin to recall how the games are played. They will be able to work independently in the center because the activity remains the same or similar.</div><div><br /></div><div>In my monthly literacy sets, many of the activities follow a familiar format. So while the theme of the activity changes, the content doesn't. This means students can jump right in month after month!</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">3. Science-Backed Strategies </h3><div>My monthly literacy centers are aligned with the Science of Reading, which means you won't have to wonder if they're effective. If you're looking for monthly activities to use in your room, I highly recommend seeking out programs that use strategies from the Science of Reading. This will take the guesswork out of your lesson planning and make the most of the time you have. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">4. Versatile and Differentiation-Friendly</h3><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Christmas-Literacy-Centers-December-Literacy-Activities-7267385?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Hands on center activities like this sensory bin is a great way to engage students in learning." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0UrnBmvrZtaUJXZylOhbw2Z_U8dBgkKflZBslJSBvGu-RnQST7PXnnkPQMtnR88eoqjzFDAC8TIVvsa7yBXYWP5wfcJ7ylAHvkLqbYtw3ywyKhGu2Hd4F7g76_MXuADTUNBTY2PQiSsiQGbwTzUBafaSWPHOZGgGlo39ByasIXB6hG9OsY7slAxW3DEY/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom.png" title="December sensory bin for letter identification and letter sounds" width="320" /></a></div><br />I also love these centers because they are versatile. You can use them traditionally as center activities for independent and partner activities OR you use them in small groups or intervention. This also means differentiation is a breeze. Pick and choose which activities to use in each group or assign to specific students. I love being able to use one resource in multiple ways to meet a variety of needs in the classroom!</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">5. Engaging and FUN!</h3><div>Last, but arguably the most important on this list... monthly literacy centers are engaging! Let's get real. Students <i>love </i>holiday and seasonal activities. Rather than trying to control the pure joy and excitement that's bottled up inside your littles during the holidays, <i>embrace it!</i> Choosing monthly literacy centers with fun seasonal themes means you can count on engagement all year long. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Choosing Center Activities for Each Topic</h2><div>Now, on to the nitty gritty! Wondering what type of activities to include in your monthly literacy centers? Let's take a closer look at the tried and true tools I used as a classroom teacher to focus on each of the literacy skills mentioned above. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Letters & Letter Sound Fluency Spinners </h3><div><br /></div><div>First up, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letters-and-Sounds-Intervention-December-Letter-Sounds-Christmas-Activities-3485173?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">this activity</a> is so. much. fun. for small group learning! This is a simple activity to use too, making it great for center time as well. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letters-and-Sounds-Intervention-December-Letter-Sounds-Christmas-Activities-3485173?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Add these letters and letter sounds fluency centers to your monthly literacy centers for a fun game like approach to learning letters and letter sounds." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmRbvjw9vBzFmio0SsBUFALcxB4-yoNEEAkM7tc5N8s5j8Ks2okCd6j5Dej1bPRv5K7UB6liAN2lyK9PS9CT2bt-B6VjfvMHT9duJLB8l-jyiYAPq5n-RrVvPJlsf51kX4s-D5m1WNneiAWWYitSx7ATfeTKpfXT86IBIKXruFMwmE2Lpk_FnRCNeo1EO/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom.png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom Letters and Letter Sound Fluency Spinners" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>To play, students will take turns spinning a spinner. The picture they land on determines which row to read on the corresponding fluency mat. </div><div><br /></div><div>Students can read letters, sounds, or both depending on what you'd like to target. </div><div><br /></div><div>I make reading letters even more fun by using silly voices that correspond with the monthly theme. For example, kiddos will get a kick out of identifying letters in Santa's deep, jolly voice or the high, squeaky voice of an elf! </div><div><br /></div><div>Once students have the hang of this, assign partner groups to work together and take turns reading rows of letters to each other. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Nonsense Word Fluency Spin and Say </h3><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Nonsense-Words-December-Christmas-Activities-4457736?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Identifying if words are real or nonsense is the theme of this fun monthly literacy centers game." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkAIlirmMx4H7xe5XtY06y-W3C8DqjnLay2zomwibEoKoK2zVWHCh3LdlR5fhjWdQDHPlu3AhymVu3yCpJhwvEHrPPaZrP66FfGLBCLr-xuZcfUTa-j2IhxeIfEdysJC2FNS1waGAFrybolFuIZ5D1aMogm_q_nqsLTA1c6RjZ-3yyGVHvIpI_Xqjw37S/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20(1).png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom Nonsense Word Fluency Spin and Say" width="320" /></a></div>This next <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Nonsense-Words-December-Christmas-Activities-4457736?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">monthly literacy center activity</a> is similar to the first, but instead of reading letters, children will read words and identify if they are real or nonsense. </div><div><br /></div><div>This activity is filled with decodable CVC words to help get your students familiar with common words. </div><div><br /></div><div>This activity is great practice for those of you who use DIBELS, Easy CBM, or Aimsweb, as well as general reading practice too. </div><div><br /></div><div>This one usually gets some giggles as kiddos think about whether or not the word they read was a real one!</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Sensory Basket - Letters and Sounds</h3><div><br /></div><div>Do you use sensory tubs in your classroom? If not, you're missing out on a great opportunity for high engagement among your students! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sensory-Bin-December-Letters-and-Letter-Sounds-Sensory-Activities-6950725?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Help your students identify letters and letter sounds with this fun hands on literacy centers activity and sensory basket idea." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudK0_vx26ir6XSkH3db7pxVxEjjtx62bn0TkYnu2VnQsQNc_Aa7y6lCuK1qefc2u-0kBWi10nKuI4OxRysUSQJ_r4Q4ODIKv2GjJu_EJH6KtYj_pi-2Vra7gBNTcnJGLSdcBC1xEKm2DZgYLuno3qb1otF-IcsYvcHJCzjI9_uCR_u9JEZIuhFPwVXAd6/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20(6).png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom Sensory Basket" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>Literacy sensory baskets help combine the use of tactile materials and hands-on learning with phonics practice. In <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sensory-Bin-December-Letters-and-Letter-Sounds-Sensory-Activities-6950725?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">December, our sensory baskets</a> featured seasonal letter cards and picture cards. </div><div><br /></div><div>This activity is meant to target letters, and letter sounds so you can differentiate based on skill level or mix and match. </div><div><br /></div><div>Students will search for letters or pictures that represent sounds in the basket and then mark them off on a corresponding recording sheet. I love that this activity uses a smaller version of a sensory table since many classrooms don't have room for them. </div><div><br /></div><div>A small tub or tray works great and you can customize the fillers too! Paper shreds, rice, dry beans, or styrofoam are all fun choices! </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Letter Identification & Sound Hole Punch </h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Recognition-Letter-Sounds-Winter-Holidays-Activities-Fine-Motor-2893124?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A hole punch makes for a fun learning tool with this letter identification and sound monthly literacy centers activity." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYWTz0kj0x-dfLsGY4oOJrXTv2iKuoPLNPjfraKoW1AeMN1njF59jrYSwPqcGELh8kSGyAlGCBaiJS8EnIxNXpQWCnRXh_KuwSb_uqNqx-GrGuR-auPyXuzG3-GYYJ-F-A3KcljNPGYjdWKTE9a_OsfsFEkC4ZMXI6Z7oMI-s1_8jjwu0LQxRIgYdyDZP/w320-h320/Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom%20(3).png" title="DECEMBER LITERACY CENTERS FOR KINDERGARTEN" width="320" /></a></div><div>I love this next activity for center time and students do too!</div><div><br /></div><div>To use <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Recognition-Letter-Sounds-Winter-Holidays-Activities-Fine-Motor-2893124?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">this one,</a> students will draw a card and name the letter or sound represented on it. Then, they will search their holiday phonics mat for the matching letter and use a hole punch to mark it. </div><div><br /></div><div>The cards come in versions with letters in alphabetical order as well as mixed up to allow for easy differentiation. </div><div><br /></div><div>This activity is great because it targets fine motor practice while working on this important literacy skill. Students love looking at the fun holiday scene on each mat as well. </div><div><br /></div><div>Choose the black and white versions of the cards if you'd like to have students color the picture after they finish. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Nonsense Word Sorting Activity </h3><div><br /></div><div>Ready for a fun game that's super versatile? Then you'll love this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Nonsense-Words-Games-Activities-December-Christmas-Activities-1970401?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">Nonsense Word Sorting Activity.</a> </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>This literacy center asks students to choose a card, read the word on the card, and then sort it into the correct category: real word or nonsense word. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to using this as a literacy center, I love using this one in small groups too. It really gives me a chance to see how students are doing with the blending concepts and understanding what they are reading.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a peek into this activity in action!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dznKUwCo_SqItDHxE_yb-jw87kgP-Eb9O0N0FnVSa1zeR_tlqc38ZDV6mbwQEuAQ81cmFZlNaf4yAAH2nX4Dw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">All the Literacy Centers in one Place</h2><div><br /></div><div>In order to make things easy and help you save time, I have created monthly bundles of all the literacy centers. In this post, I used my December literacy centers as examples. You can find all of the fun literacy centers that were featured in the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Christmas-Literacy-Centers-December-Literacy-Activities-7267385?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">December bundle.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindergarten-Christmas-Literacy-Centers-December-Literacy-Activities-7267385?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Kindergarten Literacy Centers Bundle for even more fun and exciting monthly literacy centers ideas to use in your classroom this December." border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="688" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQo7WOaUtxHEOKqkASYPQJ_EtmhNDGxt7C726vVgVxjtwdkCiFRmQVwb8FdpwrF1_GmOe3YVFYffKU6XyBXi-CG2uBTyqe59HzcarKzfr2PQfh0FJCNcOzgWbaG9fx5iKAytlPDnEbCr5PHIGWuxPNPhBI8ZlRlIIPn0vNEq0pRlru9LZ-u_wE4tbG82Uc/w315-h320/Screen%20Shot%202023-11-01%20at%207.16.13%20AM.png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom Kindergarten Literacy Centers Bundle" width="315" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But what good are fun, easy to use skill based literacy centers if they are only available for the shortest month? Absolutely no good. That's why you can find <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning/Category/Bundles-333077/Search:Literacy+Centers?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">bundles for each month in my TPT store</a>. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Making Literacy Centers Fun Every Month</h2><div>If you're looking for an easy way to save time and money when it comes time to plan your own monthly literacy activities check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/LITERACY-CENTERS-KINDERGARTEN-Year-Long-BUNDLE-7280011?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" target="_blank">Full Year Literacy Centers Mega Bundle.</a> Each month includes similar activities in a familiar format to help encourage learning and growth on important literacy topics. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/LITERACY-CENTERS-KINDERGARTEN-Year-Long-BUNDLE-7280011?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Engaging%20Monthly%20Literacy%20Centers%20for%20the%20Primary%20Classroom" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Looking for monthly literacy center ideas to use all year long? Grab this Mega Bundle for fun filled activities with engaging themes to use every month of the year." border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG21_EzKV3QwZTBdjCn_9iQE_rVP6jInrzZ0RizFqHcmq4deHRC1JczFLQUzOJEgyrwd4ZGNgDlUFLDRVo9kqbnzlwerqdQ44BrWKqkk_y6dP32zUh-RLq4NC64WzPRMDl0IPP9R5dVleDaBACNl50_s7Jj86CgC1mxM9cc5Oj6u-oGGzMRGWWqPHruIT/w314-h320/Screen%20Shot%202023-11-01%20at%207.16.53%20AM.png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom Kindergarten Literacy Centers Mega Bundle" width="314" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Your students will look forward to these fun, hands-on games and centers each month. Plus, don't forget that these versatile centers can be used in multiple ways too! Differentiate as needed, use for intervention and small groups, as well as daily center activities. The options are endless, but the prep is simple making these a great option for your monthly literacy centers. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Pin this post on your favorite Pinterest teacher board to keep track of these ideas for monthly literacy centers!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzreDD8xNfIQrqdKFm9rYe9Q3fjVVv3OJaFfKD9OAVwpWEajoJEj5UBqdgoyITwFcnAd0S4WZr2HgDWtP9EVHelNqG4HkHm3JXLkOE_ivfqdUCP0sGaXLBBlJnxG61Zz6wx3G_1YCK_bmp4esOCOMWVjehOSEGT8YlSddnP5HXuCdH-AwOen9tg94WCwO/s1500/4.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun and exciting monthly literacy centers ideas to use in your classroom this year? These awesome activities include everything you need for engaging literacy practice your students will love. Be sure to check out the MEGA Bundle for a whole year's worth of fun monthly literacy centers activities with seasonal and holiday themes your students will look forward to each and every month." border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzreDD8xNfIQrqdKFm9rYe9Q3fjVVv3OJaFfKD9OAVwpWEajoJEj5UBqdgoyITwFcnAd0S4WZr2HgDWtP9EVHelNqG4HkHm3JXLkOE_ivfqdUCP0sGaXLBBlJnxG61Zz6wx3G_1YCK_bmp4esOCOMWVjehOSEGT8YlSddnP5HXuCdH-AwOen9tg94WCwO/w266-h400/4.png" title="Engaging Monthly Literacy Centers for the Primary Classroom" width="266" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-46152797501582116452023-10-27T04:43:00.000-07:002023-10-27T04:43:48.962-07:00Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night<div>Are you looking for new ways to promote literacy among your elementary learners? If so, a family literacy night might be just the ticket to get your students, and their families excited about reading! Come along to learn more about hosting a family literacy night at your school!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekKs7S9L3mcMfcR2whmK1_xQpOwvrxL3xJSZdDFOuTelJNlD4fH5BvwCQEfrDFGesh40-sfeKlUpLZR_DBKeh02J2kWeUqARnTw5z-W6N2AN94IzFq24k7UlO9l8DsIr2mKP3KJ3oUcDhD9dPmj8c_ziQklv7gGYtA-5qhYYm_lIUNYt9fAPz-G3OSRU6/s2240/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Plan a fun and exciting family literacy night at your school this year using these helpful tips and tricks." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekKs7S9L3mcMfcR2whmK1_xQpOwvrxL3xJSZdDFOuTelJNlD4fH5BvwCQEfrDFGesh40-sfeKlUpLZR_DBKeh02J2kWeUqARnTw5z-W6N2AN94IzFq24k7UlO9l8DsIr2mKP3KJ3oUcDhD9dPmj8c_ziQklv7gGYtA-5qhYYm_lIUNYt9fAPz-G3OSRU6/w640-h360/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20Header.png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is a Family Literacy Night?</h2><div>First things first, let's talk about what to expect at a family literacy night. Essentially, this is an event that is usually hosted outside of school hours and focuses on promoting reading among young learners. Typically, the idea behind it is to engage students and parents together in literacy-based activities.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8AiYeik4nNiyUjPXgAPcTCRtO-uQlJokVJ9eqKF8HqDtyD96y5c0j1Iqx-nZP5T0_Qkm3H2HdbstI4TxDs-nL6hiB4n-hjBGNYom0bUDjmOr7XQM6kVu4kh1mybyIVrgJxyjWeQsu9IOHB0tZjPsWTWcSxQzbPHGob4IpcTopwCxJ16k43reFm_JbfDh/s1080/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(9).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="A family literacy night is a night when you can invite families into the school to focus on all things literacy in fun and creative ways." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8AiYeik4nNiyUjPXgAPcTCRtO-uQlJokVJ9eqKF8HqDtyD96y5c0j1Iqx-nZP5T0_Qkm3H2HdbstI4TxDs-nL6hiB4n-hjBGNYom0bUDjmOr7XQM6kVu4kh1mybyIVrgJxyjWeQsu9IOHB0tZjPsWTWcSxQzbPHGob4IpcTopwCxJ16k43reFm_JbfDh/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(9).png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night" width="320" /></a></div><div>In addition, family literacy nights often prioritize educating parents on literacy development and providing strategies to help foster reading skills at home. </div><div><br /></div><div>My favorite thing about a family literacy night is that it helps build community and trust between school and home. </div><div><br /></div><div>Engaging parents and kiddos together in these activities with other children and families present is a recipe for getting students excited about reading!</div><div><br /></div><div>Family literacy nights can be hosted by grade level, or with the entire school involved. If your school isn't already hosting a family literacy night, talk to your principal or administrator about getting it started. This activity is one that you won't regret, I promise! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">What Types of Activities to Include</h2><div>Literacy nights can be structured in a number of ways, but more often than not, they are filled with fun and engaging activities for students and parents to participate in together. The activities target things like working together, prompting deeper thought, open discussion, and reflection. The more variety you can have in the activity types, the better! </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Personally, it was always my mission to choose activities and games that felt fun and a bit different from the norm. The goal is to get our kids reading and what better way to get there than with fun activities?! </div><div><br /></div><div>Being intentional about choosing activities that might be a little bit out of the box is super helpful when it comes to planning a successful family literacy night.</div><div><br /></div><div>For example, one of my favorites is a "Book Walk". This activity is a play on the typical cakewalk game, which is a bit like musical chairs. To play, students will walk in a circular path while music plays. Throughout the path, there are books placed in random spots. When the music stops, students are awarded the book they land on. Ask about using PTO or Title 1 Funding to help buy books for this popular activity. </div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnD5wCjH9-IlUbFV3bV-6SI9M5Niu8EXDfGETP6zzvHPsla7OHbplB3GZ5X24vOT8ykV3lggAkip1z9sS0r9Z6ySeXdfcL2Qw-MaJx9whzYuovMEevm8XEUm1fn-WuMX3JOnQmD9rBHa-14UT2FLQayb07xj5vCMVXVXLezVCvRBFB0fdSPeIgvrMi7Ekq/s1080/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(8).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Activities to include in family literacy night could be crafts, reading time, scavenger hunts, and much more." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnD5wCjH9-IlUbFV3bV-6SI9M5Niu8EXDfGETP6zzvHPsla7OHbplB3GZ5X24vOT8ykV3lggAkip1z9sS0r9Z6ySeXdfcL2Qw-MaJx9whzYuovMEevm8XEUm1fn-WuMX3JOnQmD9rBHa-14UT2FLQayb07xj5vCMVXVXLezVCvRBFB0fdSPeIgvrMi7Ekq/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(8).png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night" width="320" /></a></div><div>Another fun activity that is easy to facilitate is having the principal, librarian, other teachers, community leaders or school board members read aloud during the literacy night event. Parents and students can pick and choose which book reading they'd like to attend. Not only will this allow for more time for reading, but it will help parents and students get to know other school staff members too! </div><div><br /></div><div>And. . . this is a great way to connect your school with the local library. Invite the library to attend the event and set up a table where families can apply for a library card. This is a fun way to branch out beyond the resources within your school. Students will love learning about the public library and seeing when they can visit for story time and book browsing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Last but not least, sending students off with a book of their own after the event is a great way to end the evening! Ask community members if they would be willing to donate books for the event. You can also find used books for pennies at thrift stores and yard sales. Look for books that would appeal to the age range of your students. Then set up a table with all of the available books. Students can flip through the books and choose one to take home with them. It's a great way to give every family a book so they can put into practice what they learned at the family literacy night. </div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Get Creative with Literacy Night Activities </span></h3><div>It's also a good idea to choose a few activities that promote creativity and individuality as well. Over the years, I've discovered this truly is the secret sauce in helping students cultivate excitement for just about any topic. If we can guide them towards expanding their literacy skills while also allowing them to express their unique perspective, we can expect to snag their attention and keep it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Wondering how this strategy looks in action? Let's take a closer look at more activities I've used in the past with the most successful outcomes!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Family Literacy Night Interview Questions </h2><div>First up, this one is a classic and one of my favorites. Every Family Literacy Night I have hosted, I always made sure to include <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-1845126?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">this activity</a> because it's SO much fun. It's a great "ice breaker" for the evening since it gets those brains thinking too! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-1845126?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A fun activity like these interview questions are great to include in family literacy night and will help parents and students get to know some fun facts about each other." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7tL7p7pXSvCO_McYWQMDhiD242GA7hg_mfBovfu0CDbINQNEe95ljSRCPF_giufq5aVKYbYVQiTgAVm0iCh5Jy7WMNtuy4ePvhPbNmMRs8qi61LSEOBUVwJeN0J9kjoDxletwVRLFflrjoAJxbyNSdVlA8FtTl5E6uBOZ_5kZoOl7PF2FENy6SAEGECo/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night.png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night Interview Questions" width="320" /></a></div><div>The questions in this interview pack are split into two levels. One questionnaire is for children in kindergarten through third grade and the other is for third through sixth grade. The idea behind this activity is that parents and children will interview each other to better understand how they feel about reading and share their interests. </div><div><br /></div><div>The questions include things like:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>What kind of books do you like to read? </li><li>What do you think makes someone a good reader?</li><li>How do you feel when you hear or read a story? </li></ul><div>These questions are designed to make both children and parents stop and reflect on their feelings about reading. Both parties will love asking and answering questions in this activity! After the interview, they will draw their family member as they see them as a reader based on the answers. This activity is great for starting out the evening on the right foot. </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Reading Scavenger Hunt </h2><div>Next up, this is one of those unexpected activities that's tons of fun and is always a huge hit! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-1845126?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this fun reading scavenger hunt activity during your family literacy night event to help parents and students get to know their way around the school." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCbP-_j-mQFpIkfX_nSzsSo6UKGWK5KVtZIjBc3F46EwCt0ywekHIAEdW8IFVlH-7vX0uuqhX5wIOs2QT13XBcKAKMYieYaGS1pMtJzN8RVQyqhoN9YAUujdxngNBNqRF40HoKr5J6CePcIQ6XC8rZ01ekXl1Le9HUJkRd5CXpuo0-3FjYd7dMOIgeAce/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night.png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night" width="320" /></a></div>I loved planning a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-1845126?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">school scavenger hunt</a> on family literacy nights because it offers an opportunity for parents and children to work together as they scour the hallways and classrooms for specific items on their lists. </div><div><br /></div><div>I included tasks such as:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>find the kindergarten teacher with the longest name </li><li>find a poster and write down what it says</li><li>find a poem somewhere in the building</li></ul><div>This activity is also differentiated by grade level to make this applicable to all of the students at your school. </div><div><br /></div><div>Simply print and distribute scavenger hunt checklists, recording sheets, and clipboards if you'd like, and send the families off on an adventure! </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Cooperative Reading Banner </h2><div>If you're looking for a fun activity that involves everyone, this next one is a must! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-Activity-Cooperative-Reading-Banner-9224538?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Ask students and parents to work collaboratively to color and decorate a reading cooperative banner like this as part of your family literacy night activities." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhcZgGsAWZJx5DJbuVHeAIydhwgqr5gYXfvRXZlPKlf0_zAT9DJROKk-vpunt2b7p3NjM0bFOxJ2jw1rCgZctCL3aItFMzfM-qjcxs4GjMGO1rqHvmsZWaXwMucIMAKWwQCDYLnNp-3jtgRMCJlB4nxytev2EgZrlly5oyQ51M1ybynRxcwoqRgZiPuKV/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(3).png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night Reading Cooperative Banner" width="320" /></a></div>The idea behind a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-Activity-Cooperative-Reading-Banner-9224538?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">Cooperative Reading Banner</a> is that families will work together to complete pieces of the banner. </div><div><br /></div><div>They will color pages, decorate them, cut them out, and assemble them into one large banner. </div><div><br /></div><div>The banner comes in a few options like "Reading Rocks!", "Family Literacy Night" and more! </div><div><br /></div><div>You can have students create banners prior to Family Literacy Night and display them as decorations or have families work on them as an activity at your event. Either way, this is a great way to encourage teamwork and strengthen the school community. </div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"></blockquote><div>In addition to completing the front pages of the banner, students can also personalize the back of each section with pictures and sentences about their favorite places to read, favorite books, and other fun facts. I liked to hang these across hallways so you can easily see both the front and back of each banner.</div><h2>Reading Motivation Bookmarks</h2><div>When reading, everyone needs a bookmark. Right?!?? So why not use that to create a hands-on bookmark crafting stating. This is a simple activity that's low-prep and allows everyone to make their own fancy bookmark to take home. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bookmarks-Bookmarks-to-Color-Reading-Motivation-Student-Gifts-6119351?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Have students and parents cut and color their own reading motivation bookmarks like these as a family literacy night activity." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGvTNLvvDoO3hS3Iiva3-h8B0YYueDtIBeh4ltFSRxeIBZXXdfZfbfRVZOZwmrCJIILH-iWxrJ6cZgJzxeFH12R27qsDimFmt_LQ2ySGhmUz95Hk-bOXmqQWFaVFgUFrHK6SJNYQSOLh6jbGnEe8I-XHr5SmrvDAiyUuBQONEZtElcYU7RsS5I3T9xeY9/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(5).png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night Bookmarks" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>I started by printing <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bookmarks-Bookmarks-to-Color-Reading-Motivation-Student-Gifts-6119351?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">these bookmarks</a> that have motivational phrases on them on colored paper or cardstock. Then, let parents and kids go to town to decorate them! </div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to provide crafting materials to make this activity feel extra special such as:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>markers, crayons, colored pencils</li><li>stickers</li><li>ribbon or pipe cleaners</li><li>glitter glue </li></ul><div>Encourage parents and kids to work together to create a fabulous bookmark to take home and use for their evening story-time routine. This activity is a great way to get your littles excited about reading long after your family literacy night has ended!</div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Would You Rather Questions Presentation</h2><div>Looking for an activity that will get your families up and moving on Family Literacy Night? </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Would-You-Rather-Questions-Reading-Version-Literacy-Night-Activity-8385875?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Run this fun Would You Rather presentation for parents and students to complete in your classroom as they walk through during family literacy night." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlr2wfPMjz3BWibIC8x-WqJO75Ew3Yjaz7kE230o-b6jPDuNrTZU38jEuMTQNboL6KGl4K7DnaTd44BYNZN2_bb-kXY2qXq2V2pTYE40UfN3daUfA7z5L_hkscUUj9IHyM0TPCBZqCAXatqWtSqg3kidL5iwUXnfhtVOuI8oJNW_aHCjItfpmE6tY2EUVA/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(6).png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night Would You Rather Presentation" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>Check out this set of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Would-You-Rather-Questions-Reading-Version-Literacy-Night-Activity-8385875?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">Would You Rather Reading Questions!</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>This activity asks 14 different questions related to reading such as "Would you rather read a book you picked out or read a book recommended to you?". </div><div><br /></div><div>But instead of answering with words, students and parents will copy the movement of the answer they agree with. </div><div><br /></div><div>One option has them dancing in a "twist" while the other has them doing "the running man". </div><div><br /></div><div>Your students will LOVE this activity, and there's bound to be tons of giggles too! I love this activity because it's super low-prep too. All you need to do is project the presentation up on your screen or smart board and you're good to go!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Reading Rock Craft and Poem </h2><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-Reading-Activities-Reading-Rocks-4113804?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">This final activity</a> is one of the BEST when it comes to promoting some creativity at your literacy night. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/End-of-the-Year-Reading-Activities-Reading-Rocks-4113804?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This reading rock craftivity is a great addition to your family literacy night activities." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOWiaUfNFb8ZKVPlaoluMwT8RPc5X4UiIs2DOMqWR6Vo9YJz44OtnpdVX3n4cmOb3RehWfF9KUFLy2VavWcmJ86Sx-soZbWugAdw_14DRwOhldB84_N2sBzll0JxpjWtIEI-odfDeQOv_3xcRW_Z8jnrC7hF8CXy4T7mQJTweclZs03xy4A-67MOwuu0P/w320-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20(7).png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night Reading Rock" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>In this activity, students will bring in a small rock and decorate it with their parents. I provide paint, markers, and googly eyes to jazz up the rocks. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, parents and students will read the printable poem together and agree to use the rock as a reminder to read, read, read! The poem is a cute and friendly way to nudge students toward reading and remind them to read every day. </div><div><br /></div><div>The poems come in full-page and mini versions in both color and black and white to meet a variety of needs. Personally, I loved using the mini versions and laminating them. I know it's an extra step, but it will help ensure the poem lasts all year long! </div><div><br /></div><div>I encouraged families to hang the poem on the fridge at home and recite it from time to time to help promote more reading! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Family Literacy Night Bundle </h2><div>If you're anything like me, you can never have enough activities on family literacy night! This was hands-down, my favorite event we hosted every year and so I was always excited to plan fun and engaging activities for it. If you can't decide on a favorite from this list, be sure to <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-BUNDLE-8455097?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" target="_blank">check out the family literacy bundle!</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Family-Literacy-Night-BUNDLE-8455097?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Family Literacy Night Bundle for all sorts of fun and exciting activities to do with your parents and students during family literacy night this year." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcArnOatUi9x0TkXdRC_LE7QgVVWyrWd6KsvUjATNuguiamep0rdaUOPsofQiSjZuCdVzmOqNoUYDhqoBnSy7i12VGeW451fUC8Un1X-abH3OOgmG6cgSGwZXVY8xDBHKGjD3M-k25PU6RTMfEOvbHVtUgsidsUi3WfeUq8QDekRMgxqdS86-0sMwzBHnN/w320-h320/original-8455097-1.jpeg" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night Bundle" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It includes 6 of the fun activities mentioned here to help make planning your own family literacy night fun and easy! No matter what you choose to use at your own family literacy night, focus on FUN and variety for a successful event! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post</h2><div style="text-align: left;"> This post is filled with all of my favorite ideas and activities for family literacy night. Pin it on Pinterest to keep these activities handy! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AUR_5N8Zuj9luZHOLtvtOh6EPcSv7tCFJQHl4h602u6C2p4S0roCeNda3T2tPAUR44K40amg_eWGw5gnRNtwnM7A3y3nfS0g9cxh8DwTU76K1E9zdzES04l2IGKLCaQRqb3BvLoLZ5cbZryOFKP7WeCYAXdlZI5-BtWAtC0X8zYb1EKsIlEjm_cvWSQi/s1500/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20pins.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Are you looking for a fun way to boost your reading engagement with your students and families this year? Host a family literacy night! Use these fun and exciting activities during family literacy night for a fun filled time full of reading, crafts, scavenger hunts, and more! Kick off your first annual family literacy night with all the great activities included in the Family Literacy Night Bundle! #tarynsuniquelearning #familyliteracynight #literacyactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AUR_5N8Zuj9luZHOLtvtOh6EPcSv7tCFJQHl4h602u6C2p4S0roCeNda3T2tPAUR44K40amg_eWGw5gnRNtwnM7A3y3nfS0g9cxh8DwTU76K1E9zdzES04l2IGKLCaQRqb3BvLoLZ5cbZryOFKP7WeCYAXdlZI5-BtWAtC0X8zYb1EKsIlEjm_cvWSQi/w213-h320/Tips%20for%20Planning%20a%20Family%20Literacy%20Night%20pins.png" title="Tips for Planning a Family Literacy Night" width="213" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-6826191052013178312023-10-11T11:12:00.004-07:002023-10-12T08:40:52.884-07:00Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas<div>Does your school celebrate the holiday season? The holidays are such a great opportunity to schedule in some holiday fun for staff! And even if you don't have a traditional holiday staff party annually, I'm a huge advocate for sprinkling a bit of festive cheer all throughout the season. Come along and check out these fun ways you can add some winter sparkle to your school all month long!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rKqwOtDJ08OzhyphenhyphenKYWaVSkuukRrYtVYUu9-P1blP_leX0wXnUnEHxIy9FTHMNIhnNVzhAxjLAQKxBd8YQI62FWL13tR455hc6q2W-YWJvEq3tlYeyhNH55asfFcytDntSt2YlRAU4CGcC0L83kuh9NxLAWFmyL5AeuvXp5oGuoj5zY3FqY274JbatzQYt/s2240/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these fun and exciting ideas during your holiday staff party this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rKqwOtDJ08OzhyphenhyphenKYWaVSkuukRrYtVYUu9-P1blP_leX0wXnUnEHxIy9FTHMNIhnNVzhAxjLAQKxBd8YQI62FWL13tR455hc6q2W-YWJvEq3tlYeyhNH55asfFcytDntSt2YlRAU4CGcC0L83kuh9NxLAWFmyL5AeuvXp5oGuoj5zY3FqY274JbatzQYt/w640-h360/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20header.png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why Your School Needs a Holiday Staff Party</h2><div>Whether you're a principal, a school administrator, or in charge of planning staff events at your school, there is SO much benefit in planning a holiday party of some kind during the month of December. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8RcNfml-eM9WVLIYfmNq__nVa4yVJyoiNCG992IWisvd-f0QDyedggUAA9pPDN-dGlPk2yo4NKrwm0UTLLx2Jg2hm9SQsYjvNT9OhncO2sPq6A4jctn2uARATFejU_mpqyWLyGnqRH7Xz1hF1xymtgfd58S8HFfW1fJ_1A9rV5t3ZsSEJB8oRlXXs9H_f/s1080/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(1).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Plan a holiday staff party to keep your staff morale high during the winter season." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8RcNfml-eM9WVLIYfmNq__nVa4yVJyoiNCG992IWisvd-f0QDyedggUAA9pPDN-dGlPk2yo4NKrwm0UTLLx2Jg2hm9SQsYjvNT9OhncO2sPq6A4jctn2uARATFejU_mpqyWLyGnqRH7Xz1hF1xymtgfd58S8HFfW1fJ_1A9rV5t3ZsSEJB8oRlXXs9H_f/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(1).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas" width="320" /></a></div><div>First off, this time of year is hectic, both at school and at home. Setting up some kind of holiday party that takes place before your holiday break is a great way to "take a breather" with staff and soak up the season. </div><div><br /></div><div>Another reason to have a holiday party is to help encourage team building and staff relationships. </div><div><br /></div><div>Teachers and other school employees work hard, and often independently (aside from interaction with the kiddos) for most of the day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Making time for parties allows your staff to get to know each other, chat about challenges in the classroom, and help support each other.</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Embracing Variety in Holiday Activities for Staff</h2><div>My favorite reason for having holiday staff parties though is to embrace the opportunity to show appreciation to the staff. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9s3htMPhqL7h_Qu2AhrspnUR4aRmGAXvJL5ixus40ycYrY9v0C40nAE_TaaQjVVEUdwUUjJCvd04p8LRHYbxNHGs3JVosuFVDhP2hbfVNcqP7v10OIQPMmV2ojgBl7sSbYzwsXzKWesVpHiQEYq4HiOv4ro0Jw4bTVcniUP8_-3UzurSKiOCvu8jGskwg/s1080/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(3).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Plan your holiday staff part to include lots of activities to help everyone feel appreciated in their own unique way." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9s3htMPhqL7h_Qu2AhrspnUR4aRmGAXvJL5ixus40ycYrY9v0C40nAE_TaaQjVVEUdwUUjJCvd04p8LRHYbxNHGs3JVosuFVDhP2hbfVNcqP7v10OIQPMmV2ojgBl7sSbYzwsXzKWesVpHiQEYq4HiOv4ro0Jw4bTVcniUP8_-3UzurSKiOCvu8jGskwg/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(3).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas" width="320" /></a></div><div>We're all so different. Did you know that different people feel appreciated in different ways? Some of us feel appreciated when a thoughtful gift is given, while others feel most valued with words of affirmation. </div><div><br /></div><div>Choosing to have a holiday party with a variety of games and activities means you'll be able to get each of your staff members the recognition they deserve in the exact way <i>they</i> resonate with best!</div><div><br /></div><div>If you would like to ensure your holiday party is well-rounded and touches on different forms of recognition for staff but aren't sure where to start, I've gotcha covered. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are 9 ideas to help add some holiday cheer to your holiday staff party, and all month long!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Staff Holiday Postcards </h2><div>Now this first one is actually best when used prior to your holiday party to help build a bit of excitement! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use postcards like these during your holiday staff party to show your staff and their loved ones how much they are appreciated." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRt28ZQ1sDIryZgTHotfiXRbC6W-Qd5rsJ0tg4jCBeVsc1nxbiVTfc04djiG3Xfwrd5JHzVBRqgtZcgBCFJZ2ocYYeFmy5HbCsn7VQJmx9bCyaLqqSqI-GpCwj2ZbnOsWwG2nlu89GYlWhKCdS6ADT5vl-JNYHh6bIjHX-AOIg0zDUaJj6gn8mUhXzm3hC/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas.png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Postcards" width="320" /></a></div>One year, at the beginning of the month of December, I received a super thoughtful postcard from my administration. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was so kind and heartfelt, that I left it hanging on my bulletin board for years. Once I saw them start this tradition, I knew other schools could benefit from sending out <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Holiday-Postcards-Staff-Holiday-Gift-10189218?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">holiday postcards</a> to their staff too! </div><div><br /></div><div>This idea will really speak to those of your staff that relate to words of affirmation. </div><div><br /></div><div>Taking the time to share how staff efforts are noticed and appreciated will often go <i>much</i> further than simply giving them another sweatshirt or coffee mug with the school logo on it. </div><div><br /></div><div>My best advice for this one is to plan ahead! Start writing these postcards in November so that you can give thoughtful, caring, and personalized feedback to each person. And. . . if you think you will have a hard time remembering specific things for each staff member, keep a Note on your phone or tablet all year long. As you see staff members doing something, jot it down. When it comes time to write those personalized cards you will have all the real-life examples of the amazing things they have done. </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Holiday Decor </h2><div>What's a holiday party without décor?! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Staff appreciation tags like these are a great addition to your holiday staff party ideas because they are a great way to show your staff how you appreciate them." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLsQ2yaPQa6ykhNqhB4l4dSPp_pSRHxCxgkUSBpt68M7HgTCc6F1P67PrrAZ7uVTDEYLWxVd5Iz4woVydAbv97R98isq06InefDZcRVT4-KtpXdn51M45Q6GUnCPGj6yIfrDLoUhDXTLGOHbDnWB4DWaNBehJBtGdKTMAzehOy_aSCOW5zTkx1bIdn-6X/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(1).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Holiday Decor" width="320" /></a></div>Personally, I loved decorating for the holidays as soon as we were back from Thanksgiving break so that we could enjoy the decorations for as long as possible. </div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>As a member of the Sunshine Committee for years, I loved adding some holiday magic to staff mailboxes, the teacher's lounge, our school Christmas tree, the copy room, and even the staff bathrooms this time of year! </div><div><br /></div><div>One of my favorite ways to decorate included using <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-DECEMBER-Holiday-Decor-10189087?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">Staff Appreciation Tags.</a> The idea behind this resource is to write down your favorite thing about each staff member on these festive holiday tags. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, string them up on a colorful ribbon and hang them around areas that staff visit most. </div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone will LOVE to read what's been written about their colleagues. They come in options for Christmas, Hanukkah, and winter too for added variety!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Hot Cocoa Bar </h2><div style="text-align: left;">This next idea is always a huge hit with staff and it's something you can implement even if don't have dedicated time for a staff party. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Organize a hot cocoa bar for your holiday staff party for an extra special sweet treat your staff will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8ljyeTzunw3COHMoK1ZUMLmKoG6qhFqyTff8HA6kjL85hHilzXly_KMubPaBmVDb3Z9Faw88fSir54eKqVAlteZydCYZCbeVdnP0LXGJll02aoedqFdJWrh3kmWg1hZJxJLtSQCnG04t-kgAG3qp8kNeCOZHbI6YdWrkur_e_ChRfPMkVDWYE7xTNdFg/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(2).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Hot Cocoa Bar" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Setting up a hot cocoa bar is a great way to get your staff in the holiday spirit and give them a special treat too! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You can run this activity as a potluck-style event where teachers and staff will sign up for items, or it can all be organized by admin. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Either way, everyone will love the opportunity to grab a cup of hot cocoa and add some special toppings on the day of the event. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Hot-Cocoa-Bar-8717749?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">This resource</a> comes with everything you need to plan, organize, and execute a successful hot cocoa bar. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are announcement signs, decorative signs, labels for cocoa toppings, and even a recipe for homemade hot cocoa that your staff will LOVE! Use this activity on a Friday in December to recognize your staff for their hard work. And. . . if they love it you can do it again in January to brighten up those dull winter days.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Gift of Time </h2><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0Y1TbnUH000AP0BKPjDk7dYUFQWsYdUpvPZIAnSBRNLdVa9qcrOWPCN95nNjvAGa1pKaOfaKumBzKicUfAESzR6TelPiixt3kgBdDMg9QfJz563oJVgmD-C_dYY5YsXZlb_SX-7qiZlQp2YaHpl7c0VnIabQXF6HpksDSMzCEi3Ls97YJcjfuAMk1Kef/s1080/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Give the gift of time by taking over the class for a few minutes." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE0Y1TbnUH000AP0BKPjDk7dYUFQWsYdUpvPZIAnSBRNLdVa9qcrOWPCN95nNjvAGa1pKaOfaKumBzKicUfAESzR6TelPiixt3kgBdDMg9QfJz563oJVgmD-C_dYY5YsXZlb_SX-7qiZlQp2YaHpl7c0VnIabQXF6HpksDSMzCEi3Ls97YJcjfuAMk1Kef/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas.png" title="Do a read aloud for the teacher" width="320" /></a></div>This next idea is one of my absolute faves because as a former teacher, I know that time is the one thing none of us ever have enough of! </div><div><br /></div><div>The best way to make this work is to arrange for administration, a special guest, or parent volunteers to help out. </div><div><br /></div><div>Plan a special assembly, a movie day, or a guest presentation for students to attend. Or rotate through classes doing a read-aloud or special activity with the students.</div><div><br /></div><div>During this time, allow teachers to use the time to take a break in the lounge, take a long lunch, or work in their classrooms on whatever they need to get done. </div><div><br /></div><div>The holiday season is a busy time and most teachers will be thrilled to get the gift of time! </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Staff Scratch-Off Tickets </h2><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Scratch-Off-Tickets-and-Prizes-6774359?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">Scratch-off tickets</a> make a great, inexpensive gift for staff that's totally unique and fun! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Scratch off tickets like these can be used before or during your holiday staff party for fun prizes your staff will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0KxpUZUm-A2GH4rKJNSqidvCsbbX7i1fJ_2zgQe4_7Fp9GOy7Xsq6JwMs17kd2pqa6QknpAUARXfwcUD4biS6In-16CNpmoBJ-LmkH1Njw49lsOismEnORBJzBhb4SgOSUxdZTMtyV-OM7g4zi4acruWqggDQkDZYzgwV58KoG-NMb3Dvlywa4QDceQt/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(8).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Scratch-off Tickets" width="320" /></a></div>At my school, we used these all year long at our monthly staff meetings. </div><div><br /></div><div>The holiday-themed tickets are perfect for your December meeting or your Holiday Staff Party. </div><div><br /></div><div>The prizes that can be uncovered include things like:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>prime parking spot for a week</li><li>jeans day </li><li>recess coverage </li><li>copies prepped for the week, and more!</li></ul><div>I love these low-cost tickets and they really help to build excitement and boost staff morale all year long. </div><div><br /></div><div>This resource includes instructions for DIY scratch-off paint, or you can print them and use scratch off stickers on the tickets, which is a quick and easy option.</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Staff Favorites Book</h2><div>If you're having a Secret Santa or some kind of gift exchange, you'll love the Staff Favorites book. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a staff favorites book like this before your holiday staff party to get a list of things your staff loves to help you plan the best party." border="0" data-original-height="1074" data-original-width="1340" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE59rGARxlkVg9HPF14sSBkeCDkvPuE_zAPQjbhMh-SJGZyXN_zim-Q7SIw1xdBDXLOYPw3yH2NG57NEYxuLMVkoqUW0sAjwTiNlHFtmiazKh5Ur-amkGS2XW6fkjHjQpXA-Cvm7_yo0PefeFWnxV8MiejcY3gIbPo3wno_wTjLaMFmWT4hb3JMwowUWhD/w320-h256/Screen%20Shot%202023-10-04%20at%201.38.48%20PM.png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Staff Favorites Book" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">This resource</a> is perfect for helping your staff know what their colleagues like, <i>without</i> having to ask. </div><div><br /></div><div>In my school, we filled the staff favorites pages out at the beginning of the year. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, I made copies and placed them in binders for staff to access. </div><div><br /></div><div>Inside is a list of each person's favorite things including drinks, treats, office supplies, and more! </div><div><br /></div><div>We used them for holidays, birthdays, and "just because" gifts. Making a book like this prior to the month of December is a great idea to encourage gift-giving and recognition among your staff members. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Secret Santa </h2><div>Speaking of Secret Santa, have you ever tried this classic holiday gift-giving system at your school? </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a secret santa gift exchange prior to your holiday staff party to build the fun of the season all month long." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZT381F9E8Ra4tvDgQxkdSmTNT1sB0iZNHQ8dqQnuJdk_WAUIKaGmD4jBhhUKLex6JEl7MrOHUYGklsydpsbgrUtG_uWR2faElXnZljiRndMtHzrjoIQ9JiJA_UAUAQVd8ySNCmutCcvm_cBGPqGHkibAbwjkT7s7CeRsfGpP1-wVrn42MRcDkJn-BVo-o/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(5).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Secret Santa" width="320" /></a></div>It's one of my personal favorites, but at my school, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Secret-Santa-10210580?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">we adapted it with a fun twist</a> that "snowballs" throughout the month of December. </div><div><br /></div><div>To start the gift-giving chain, you will choose 2 staff members to gift. </div><div><br /></div><div>You'll place a Santa sign on their door, drop a gift at their desk, and leave a note letting them know they need to choose 2 staff members to gift next. </div><div><br /></div><div>This continues and builds as each person is chosen! Before you know it, your whole school will be covered with Santa signs with this fun holiday game!</div><div><br /></div><div>Don't forget to refer staff to the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">"Favorites Book"</a> for this activity too! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Holiday Cookie Exchange</h2><div>Nothing screams the holidays quite like cookies, right? </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Organize a holiday cookie exchange during your holiday staff party for a delicious treat everyone will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJC63ZEkM9vbo6N1gD7r5-flyDgUHmr9-vGJGi-BHpPNi5qa3SrXa2ItAQmEmOU2r1znw3g2moK1feOC2C9BkgKjc4NyT3vv8h4SpdAeoTMqakP0_MR08IgopinWIK-a1eZU-0NWiChgwhyphenhyphenq3H04uPtfotd0frYtYvrLnTm9L4QvBz9m6BZbPS3w19lQo/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(6).png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Holiday Cookie Exchange" width="320" /></a></div>Planning a holiday cookie exchange is a great, low-cost party activity that gets your whole staff involved. </div><div><br /></div><div>This was always one of my personal favorite events to plan year after year. </div><div><br /></div><div>To make this successful, I recommend announcing the exchange and putting out sign-up sheets well in advance. We want this to be fun, not stressful for staff, so giving plenty of time to plan is key!</div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to have everyone share their recipes as well, and then make copies and bind the pages together into a cookbook for everyone to take home. You can also scan the recipe cards and send out a digital PDF to cut down on paper too!</div><div><br /></div><div>This resource makes planning a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-DECEMBER-Holiday-Cookie-Exchange-10203218?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">holiday cookie exchange</a> super simple and fun! It includes materials for announcing the event, sign-up sheets, cookie labels, recipe cards, cookbook covers, reminder tags, and decorative posters. </div><div><br /></div><div>Try using this activity for your holiday staff party this year! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">9. White Elephant Exchange </h2><div>This final holiday party idea is a great opportunity for your staff to give each other gifts without having to spend a single penny! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqUqf-_itFom5TjLN_MyNt_Lz2nQhnG7FGShvEIG508gr87n5TpwlChKP65j-tCXdJCJoz3KoVgxykaq0RVHZk89m8PU4gBTyE0_l_A1i39c3GlgR9un2LLsl9rZ4ob0YHZk5G7b95ISFWG5-uO3v_PrscV8c9rhBxz8IA_V0DbAKeOM5vUbbfdSNUqWe/s1080/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(1).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="A white elephant or silly gift exchange is always sure to get everyone laughing." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqUqf-_itFom5TjLN_MyNt_Lz2nQhnG7FGShvEIG508gr87n5TpwlChKP65j-tCXdJCJoz3KoVgxykaq0RVHZk89m8PU4gBTyE0_l_A1i39c3GlgR9un2LLsl9rZ4ob0YHZk5G7b95ISFWG5-uO3v_PrscV8c9rhBxz8IA_V0DbAKeOM5vUbbfdSNUqWe/w320-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20(1).png" title="Staff gift exchange" width="320" /></a></div>White Elephant is a fun game where everyone brings a wrapped gift and is assigned a number to pick one of the gifts from the pile. The gifts can be silly, real, or even specific like an ornament or a book.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lower numbers choose first, while higher numbers wait their turn. As each person's number is called, they choose a gift and open it.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next number can either choose a new gift and "exchange" for one of the other gifts that have already been opened. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-White-Elephant-Holiday-Book-Swap-10208525?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">This resource</a> is designed to play this game with gently used books. Staff members who would like to participate will choose a book from their own shelf for the exchange. </div><div><br /></div><div>This one is always a big hit and makes everyone laugh! <i>Plus, </i>it's nice to have an option that doesn't require staff to spend money. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Staff Morale Activities for the Whole Month</h2><div>Can't decide on a favorite from this list? Check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" target="_blank">December Staff Morale Bundle</a> that includes 6, fun activities to use throughout the month. This bundle includes:</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>White Elephant Book Exchange</li><li>Staff Secret Santa </li><li>Staff Cookie Exchange Party </li><li>Hot Cocoa Bar </li><li>Holiday Décor Appreciation Tags </li><li>Holiday Postcards </li></ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-December-Holiday-BUNDLE-10212485?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20Ideas" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This Staff Morale December Holiday Fun Bundle includes everything you need to host an amazing holiday staff party this year." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZ3hnHFQMpq7SuGTOj1tQBMXzrm5a1FfsqLclILDQBYgPAu4nWQEWCCCQgU8sCipRX8bYHdJ-GcH7MA8_vAKa2uUYByikmeFteA2qkhG28Nwgyry4cm-yx3lq-xs8t5fE4hK5gZ2EIwzbQCLVSStCyMFB8k3V6HSM4-GId7_yo808-bdwV-_mgnCoYeX5/w320-h320/original-10212485-1.jpeg" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas Bundle" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Grabbing the bundle means you'll save money and be well-prepared for a fun month of holiday staff party activities and gifting! This bundle is a great way to recognize staff and boost morale all month long. </div><div><br /></div><div>Oh and if you like having an excuse to celebrate in your building as much as I did, make sure to sign up to grab my FREE wacky holiday list here! Happy celebrating friends! </div></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Pin this post on Pinterest to keep these holiday staff party ideas handy! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCG0LrExNMTV8cSohz4b51zveWJ3PtjoKaIQYwvGyKCHfnO01mlkh6HM-zi7kHvbJQrVnIRl-qX7W-m1XaHd8wA-CJdQmOHN96ap4LmZS8ct3xIC_bzcQ2o1XFWt74R3pGhi2YMvwWfAIq2zUUsfGa3lCZlE6mSocTKLIfB18nOir8YKmR10e93akshmQH/s1500/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun holiday staff party and gift ideas for the holiday season? Use these activities, resources, and gifts to plan and implement the best holiday staff party ever this year. #tarynsuniquelearning #holidaystaffparty #teacherholidayparty #teacherchristmasparty" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCG0LrExNMTV8cSohz4b51zveWJ3PtjoKaIQYwvGyKCHfnO01mlkh6HM-zi7kHvbJQrVnIRl-qX7W-m1XaHd8wA-CJdQmOHN96ap4LmZS8ct3xIC_bzcQ2o1XFWt74R3pGhi2YMvwWfAIq2zUUsfGa3lCZlE6mSocTKLIfB18nOir8YKmR10e93akshmQH/w213-h320/Holiday%20Staff%20Party%20and%20Gift%20Ideas%20pin.png" title="Holiday Staff Party and Gift Ideas" width="213" /></a></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-53578971474710003512023-09-21T09:20:00.000-07:002023-09-21T09:20:49.308-07:00Foster Reading Fluency with Songs and Poems<div><p style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">As a classroom teacher, finding creative, new ways to foster reading fluency was always on my mind. Being in the primary classroom meant that so much of our day was centered around reading, so I was dedicated to finding new strategies to help my students succeed. Over the years, I came across one technique that was very effective and </span><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">highly</em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> engaging to students! Ready to hear more? Let's chat about using songs and poems to foster reading fluency in your room! </span></p><p style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33Ih7D-f5h46AM-9NPhSczuvIaVkaFokBQvky-JViHGL5wcDLXm1-6z36BjWu7GOHipxct37Rg6-_2ICyMwHOdkwv2jhcV6LmC3WW4gGESzRrrbnnHDOi2lWimMWMsWVutqe4R4KKPPAFwO5RZr8jNJ9BDlfaxIkNrmDdM6ds2gkGI4pnQRkPQ6BmllL3/s2240/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(2).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use poems and songs to help your students develop important reading fluency skills in fun ways you can use all year long." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33Ih7D-f5h46AM-9NPhSczuvIaVkaFokBQvky-JViHGL5wcDLXm1-6z36BjWu7GOHipxct37Rg6-_2ICyMwHOdkwv2jhcV6LmC3WW4gGESzRrrbnnHDOi2lWimMWMsWVutqe4R4KKPPAFwO5RZr8jNJ9BDlfaxIkNrmDdM6ds2gkGI4pnQRkPQ6BmllL3/w640-h360/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(2).png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems" width="640" /></a></div><p></p></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Connection Between Reading and Rhythm</h2><div>Before we dive into the strategies, let's talk about the backstory of this discovery. As a classroom teacher, it occurred to me that my students had no trouble remembering song lyrics. They could quickly pick up new songs and chants and they could sing them over and over again. But yet, they struggled to remember sight words in reading. </div><div><br /></div><div>After some thought I developed a hypothesis. . . and it had to do with the connection to the natural rhythms found in songs, chants, and poems.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrOjgi6sL-0_N_ISriyJg6RShcyM2M_iG7Ge9uIAyVGLnPmmlLCI3a8jiAxNuD3kNS_CiwxQSvb8_eREUhHcPOzsq_O4o6LzrTGNyNbYXCo-N1tCzJiwnx5k9AZJuld0C_-FRFIfyXrReOAXZvD49fyKQUX4ji5HGS7qChEHQieeuNV-I43HazgwiPnJL/s1080/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(4).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="With fun poems, songs, and activities, along with the I Can Read Fluency Notebook your students will get meaningful reading fluency practice each and every day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrOjgi6sL-0_N_ISriyJg6RShcyM2M_iG7Ge9uIAyVGLnPmmlLCI3a8jiAxNuD3kNS_CiwxQSvb8_eREUhHcPOzsq_O4o6LzrTGNyNbYXCo-N1tCzJiwnx5k9AZJuld0C_-FRFIfyXrReOAXZvD49fyKQUX4ji5HGS7qChEHQieeuNV-I43HazgwiPnJL/w320-h320/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(4).png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems" width="320" /></a>If in fact, the use of rhythm helped students remember, then why couldn't we use that to help improve their reading skills? So, I gave it a try. I started with a few of the songs and chants that we were already doing in our classroom. Instead of focusing on them solely orally, I typed up the words and sent my students off with a challenge. </div><div><br /></div><div>In some cases, I asked students to find and circle specific sight words as they were reading. In other cases, I gave them a challenge based on a phonics skill we were learning. And what happened next, was nothing short of amazing! </div><div><br /></div><div>Using the rhythm of the song, chant, or poem, students started interacting with the written word. Instead of being intimidated by this page of words, they were excited because it connected to something they already knew. They were able to use this knowledge to help them interact with the written words in a whole new way.</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Fluency-Practice-1st-Grade-Morning-Work-Reading-Fluency-Passages-7195286?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this I Can Read Notebook for each of your students on a daily bases to keep track of all your morning work activities that help build reading fluency." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkSG6PgUXW-uqVQyrby-Y3xdFBnxmt6ONG0OKk_73mRJwfqK-SA9WsPvA-r8q3ooKnKuHSxEtr3ODcr0BZjN_ZY6UQ3j9GlUwMcymgoxZq8gHAA61ByeH05xkBHUtvXDzIHtbhx5stdoEGwoIMAmlfekU45OcK0li8CcrTQ-ATXXyy8TkBadZMNd3jbwy/w320-h320/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems.png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems" width="320" /></a></div><div>That was it! My trial run was so successful that I jumped right in and set up an <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Fluency-Practice-1st-Grade-Morning-Work-Reading-Fluency-Passages-7195286?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" target="_blank">I Can Read Notebook</a> for each student. </div><div><br /></div><div>I decided that with the prior knowledge of the song, chant, or poem, students could work independently on these activities, so I chose to use them as our daily morning work. </div><div><br /></div><div>Any guesses on how well this strategy worked? Well, since I'm telling you about them now you can probably guess that it went really well. I saw improvements in my students' mastery of sight words and phonics skills. I also noticed that their reading fluency was improving. </div><div><br /></div><div>That was all I needed to make I Can Read Notebooks a staple in my classroom year after year. I've even had former students visit me to tell me they still had their "I Can Read Notebook" and remembered this activity vividly. </div><div><br /></div><div>Are you ready to hear all about the reading fluency notebooks and how they worked in our classroom? Let's dive in! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Using "I Can Read" Fluency Notebooks </h2><div>After my little experiment, I was ready for students to interact with written words using songs, chants, or poems on a daily basis. I decided that the students would come in every morning and grab a "morning work" page for the day to add to the notebook. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Fluency-Practice-1st-Grade-Morning-Work-Reading-Fluency-Passages-7195286?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This I Can Read Fluency notebook includes poems, finger plays, chants, songs, and more." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9jJd0e4zuzbbcEXbgUerceeuYJKneVguS9TOaakDAbJLmOhLKdWtlqu8HR5EzIUE46ipheVxkpm9ckSL5tPsyeM3Cl7mGYxq48YhJ6LofEkVmb5CthPeIwEvGdLWp2G_Xloro2cvorrcMS4M-v_KpWdEont77HOjsnpA7rhWK_WCKA0GV8HVQWOSU5ZXL/w320-h320/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(1).png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems Reading Fluency Notebook" width="320" /></a></div><div>Each day, their paper consisted of a poem, fingerplay, chant, or song we had previously learned. This is an important key to success. Remember, knowing the tune or rhyme helps kiddos draw from memory and triggers them to recall the words as they see them while reading. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Since we had multiple songs, chants, poems, or fingerplays we were doing at any given time, it was not a problem to give them a new page each day. </div><div><br /></div><div>To start, I would have students read the page independently. Next, they would read again and complete the challenge of the day. Some days this was to look for a specific sight word or two and circle them. On other days, they would look for words based on a phonics skill we were learning or a spelling pattern. The idea was to get students working with the words on the page, looking at them, and reading them while connecting the written words with the tune or rhythm. </div><div><br /></div><div>They would finish their independent work by drawing a picture to illustrate what they had read. This was a great way to do a quick check for reading comprehension too.</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Working as a Group to Build Reading Fluency</h2><div>After students worked independently and completed their morning task on their page, we always finished with a group reading of our page. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GZtCFhfZwqcCaBzwC7OOBoUSsHZm3ZFgFJwN7NpVWRCIoWIKlvV6O0AX44h47Tc-qLvEUvpmGiQDj_b11mDkejJhJodpA3x3r-hvbCSWmrhRtnuKky_3TQiEiNC0vq0ZjjqqsckpDGyRyhzUh6bV7v2A3N6EsE7vUPc26FZZCVcQBLPhEUaACwgDKkox/s1080/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(2).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Work on poems and song as a group to help build fluency with all of your students." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GZtCFhfZwqcCaBzwC7OOBoUSsHZm3ZFgFJwN7NpVWRCIoWIKlvV6O0AX44h47Tc-qLvEUvpmGiQDj_b11mDkejJhJodpA3x3r-hvbCSWmrhRtnuKky_3TQiEiNC0vq0ZjjqqsckpDGyRyhzUh6bV7v2A3N6EsE7vUPc26FZZCVcQBLPhEUaACwgDKkox/w320-h320/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(2).png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems Group Work" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>After our group reading, the students added their pages to their notebooks. I used a 2-inch or 3-ring binder because it was easy to add pages all year long. You could also have students glue them into a composition book or spiral notebook. Whatever you choose, just choose something that has enough pages to last the year. </div><div><br /></div><div><p style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i>Teacher tip: Make sure to teach your littles how to open and close the rings if you use a 3-ring binder. Initially, this can be tricky (and painful) if done incorrectly! Plus, your future self will be thanking you for not being the only one in the class with this skill.</i></span></p><p style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></h2></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Finding Songs, Chants, Poems, and Rhymes to Boost Reading Fluency</h2><div>It might sound difficult to find a new song, chant, poem, or rhyme for every day of the school year. I promise - it really isn't. Start the year off with songs and chants that your students likely already know. Those will be the first pages you want to use. Then, as you teach new ones in class, you start to weave those into your I Can Notebooks.</div><div><br /></div><div>Still not convinced? What if I told you there was no hard and fast rule that you had to do a new song every day. You could use each page for 2 days instead of one. On the first day, students will read, find target sight words, and draw their pictures. On the second day, they can focus on a specific phonics skill and finish their picture.</div><div><br /></div><div>The real goal is to tap into the power of the rhythm and to help your students connect that with written words.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once you get started it won't take long to start building your collections of favorite songs, chants, and poems. But. . . I'm also here to help you out. I wrote a <a href="https://www.tarynsuniquelearning.com/2015/07/my-top-ten-sing-long-bookshelping-your.html" target="_blank">post years ago about some of my favorite "sing-along" books</a> that are an excellent source for your daily pages. Some of these books might be hard to find, but if you keep an eye out, you'll likely find similar ones! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ5o-NI-cguEsyLcabCd2WsuhN59iCsF-8CHSpDnFQqPBFSyg9u6ql0OsS7Id5Bf94DsSHtZnfMXrHPddzbutW9bjy7EDZP2UmU-mleoAMAVhn-mfFTrnET4FPyx0sd_VdOnfZDzWepZEysOo02qxO8rvE_rv_j3MJsSOwTcSZWnJyrSmu60Ydr87tLIy/s1080/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(3).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Use books like these which include songs and poems to build reading fluency in your students." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ5o-NI-cguEsyLcabCd2WsuhN59iCsF-8CHSpDnFQqPBFSyg9u6ql0OsS7Id5Bf94DsSHtZnfMXrHPddzbutW9bjy7EDZP2UmU-mleoAMAVhn-mfFTrnET4FPyx0sd_VdOnfZDzWepZEysOo02qxO8rvE_rv_j3MJsSOwTcSZWnJyrSmu60Ydr87tLIy/w320-h320/Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems%20(3).png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems Books" width="320" /></a></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Today-Monday-Eric-Carle/dp/0698115635/ref=sr_1_1?crid=33UNREHRN2D0A&keywords=today+is+monday&qid=1694636188&s=books&sprefix=today+is+%2Cstripbooks%2C158&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Today is Monday</a> by Eric Carle </li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/You-are-sunshine-Steve-Metzger/dp/0439266319/ref=sr_1_11?crid=SHNK6U7Z8HKH&keywords=you+are+my+sunshine+song+book&qid=1694636159&s=books&sprefix=you+are+my+sunshine+song+book%2Cstripbooks%2C276&sr=1-11" target="_blank">You Are My Sunshine</a> by Steve Metzger</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Howdi-Do-Radunsky-Guthrie-Woody/dp/0763607681" target="_blank">Howdi Do</a> by Woody Guthrie </li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/There-Swallowed-Classic-Books-Holes/dp/0859537277/ref=sr_1_5?crid=35ACFZEMZFF4&keywords=there+was+an+old+lady+who+swallowed+a+fly&qid=1694636310&s=books&sprefix=there+was+an+old+%2Cstripbooks%2C170&sr=1-5" target="_blank">There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly</a> by Pam Adams</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ten-Jane-Cabreras-Story-Time/dp/0823444813/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=ten+in+the+bed&qid=1694638762&s=books&sr=1-2https://www.amazon.com/Ten-Jane-Cabreras-Story-Time/dp/0823444813/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=ten+in+the+bed&qid=1694638762&s=books&sr=1-2" target="_blank">Ten in the Bed</a> by Jane Cabrera</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Rabbit-Foo-Michael-Rosen/dp/0671796046/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XVZUF4L9FXCX&keywords=little+rabbit+foo+foo&qid=1694636427&s=books&sprefix=little+rabbit+foo+foo%2Cstripbooks%2C156&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Little Rabbit Foo Foo</a> by Michael Rosen</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Twenty-Four-Robbers-Childs-Play-Library/dp/1904550355/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1IWIWCL6ZPNWF&keywords=twenty+four+robbers&qid=1694636477&s=books&sprefix=twenty+four+robber%2Cstripbooks%2C158&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Twenty-Four Robbers</a> by Audrey Wood</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Way-Down-South-Learn-Read-Read/dp/1574710745/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BTZ4G3MWU1DS&keywords=way+down+south&qid=1694636513&s=books&sprefix=way+down+south%2Cstripbooks%2C163&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Way Down South</a> by Rozanne Lanczak Williams </li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Down-Bay-Raffi-Songs-Read/dp/0517800586/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1LIVA1RJB3E7E&keywords=down+by+the+bay&qid=1694636577&s=books&sprefix=down+by+the+bay+%2Cstripbooks%2C158&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Down by the Bay</a> by Raffi </li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Oh-Hunting-We-Will-Go/dp/068971503X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=KW5GQZ6TGDOG&keywords=oh+a+hunting+we+will+go&qid=1694636646&s=books&sprefix=oh+a+hunting+we+will+go+%2Cstripbooks%2C164&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Oh A-Hunting We Will Go</a> by John Langstaff </li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Teddy-Bear-Classic-Action-Rhyme/dp/0688152511/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2NA0RAVPB60ML&keywords=teddy+bear+teddy+bear&qid=1694636954&s=books&sprefix=teddy+bear+teddy+bear%2Cstripbooks%2C215&sr=1-4" target="_blank">Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear</a> by Michael Hague </li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Alligator-Elevator-Rick-Charette/dp/1954277121/ref=sr_1_1?crid=157EC939Z924B&keywords=alligator+in+the+elevator&qid=1694637013&s=books&sprefix=alligator+in+the+elevator+%2Cstripbooks%2C152&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Alligator in the Elevator</a> by Rick Charette </li></ol><div>These are just some ideas to help you get started. You can use these or any others that have. Your school or local library is sure to have lots of options available. Garage sales and thrift stores are great places to look too. And. . . a quick YouTube search will yield hundreds if not thousands of options. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>In my room, I kept these books in a bin in our library. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Library-Book-Bin-Labels-Leveled-and-Thematic-3851405?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" target="_blank">The bin was labeled "songbooks"</a> to help my students see that these books contained the chants we learned in class. Students LOVED picking them up and finding a familiar song or chant on the pages to read. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Ready to Get Started?</h2><div>I've put together everything you need to get started connecting written words and music or rhythm in your classroom. Inside the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Fluency-Practice-1st-Grade-Morning-Work-Reading-Fluency-Passages-7195286?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" target="_blank">"I Can Read" Fluency Notebooks</a> is a small collection of poems and songs to help you start this reading activity in your classroom. The pages included in this resource have songs like <i>"Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar"</i> and a fun variation on classic songs like B-I-N-G-O. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>The resource includes cover page options for student and teacher notebooks. Use the included pages to begin and then add your own poems, songs, and chants as the year goes on. Just be sure to <i>teach</i> the song, poem, chant, or fingerplay <i>before</i> distributing your pages. This is crucial to success with this strategy! </div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to take a closer look at the resource, be sure to <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Fluency-Practice-1st-Grade-Morning-Work-Reading-Fluency-Passages-7195286?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" target="_blank">pop on over to my TpT Shop to check it out.</a> I hope you and your students have as much fun targeting reading through song as we did!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reading-Fluency-Practice-1st-Grade-Morning-Work-Reading-Fluency-Passages-7195286?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=Foster%20Reading%20Fluency%20with%20Songs%20and%20Poems" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this I Can Read Notebook resource for each of your students on a daily bases to keep track of all your morning work activities that help build reading fluency." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSz49vCPAHUTEhmDHWs_9GgEVfTLcqSc8zmy7dQz-QtcS72bihnjDJEYbds6Y5zWUTciZ_jraZZi7Jq_K3-k_Jcaf_Pq9nWdZvq7wmFN87Pzm-PI43cC79TCZg5W5DEXglXDyZkOl3MGQCqzog3wbrTsTTJE-uRi2pPCIjvDdViawA3v8Q8ApTD1SCnh0/w320-h320/original-7195286-1.jpeg" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>This post contains information about my favorite technique to foster reading fluency in the classroom. Be sure to pin it on Pinterest to keep track of these ideas!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEVaPjeDc4SMeX_fr35z8H67zgl36c8s1PbKOBhel0zhu0mz2T5TseOns5MoHJH9ZjLy0-cKz8zyAYBG4AnnX7ap2Egoo6sHs4Ot5YE8tyXrhC6_upHef9GF38MNie-BeTBi9szIQ2l4jWXthNwrVZnMlergK89jwd9rcbRWgDaTHPsykBP0ZhU9a4GL3/s1500/2.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these exciting activities and engaging poems and stories to foster a love of reading in your students and build reading fluency all year long. Grab the I Can Read Notebook for reading fluency practice all year long. #tarynsuniquelearning #readingfluency #increasingreadingfluencywithsongsandpoems" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEVaPjeDc4SMeX_fr35z8H67zgl36c8s1PbKOBhel0zhu0mz2T5TseOns5MoHJH9ZjLy0-cKz8zyAYBG4AnnX7ap2Egoo6sHs4Ot5YE8tyXrhC6_upHef9GF38MNie-BeTBi9szIQ2l4jWXthNwrVZnMlergK89jwd9rcbRWgDaTHPsykBP0ZhU9a4GL3/w213-h320/2.png" title="Foster Reading Fluency With Songs and Poems" width="213" /></a></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-46822998196961626662023-09-05T14:26:00.000-07:002023-09-05T14:26:03.513-07:005 Ways to Boost Staff Morale this Fall!<div>If you work as a school administrator, a parent volunteer, or a member of a school sunshine committee, you probably already know just how important staff morale is. Keeping staff morale high is crucial to creating a warm and welcoming school environment. Teachers and other school staff members work hard! Let's help them feel appreciated and boost staff morale this fall with some fun and fresh ideas!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLclHh9vD77QzFMXfCMRVDQ2osUbV6oepnyiphRQ29RkNIM1mNueufDdOsiCNmxR_MVA023Am2y8G_5ZFOYPqalY4bfgm3vVn4v0rgS2PjZSanDnY3PFPmzPVELEyDwKyX6qGBGQfY5oSB7mB6iDbaXzxUomvIiRr7yFW9NQP44szhjmNv_edoQwBvrIJ/s2240/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these tips and tricks to boost staff morale in your school this fall." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLclHh9vD77QzFMXfCMRVDQ2osUbV6oepnyiphRQ29RkNIM1mNueufDdOsiCNmxR_MVA023Am2y8G_5ZFOYPqalY4bfgm3vVn4v0rgS2PjZSanDnY3PFPmzPVELEyDwKyX6qGBGQfY5oSB7mB6iDbaXzxUomvIiRr7yFW9NQP44szhjmNv_edoQwBvrIJ/w640-h360/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20header.png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Fall is a Great Time for a Staff Morale Boost </h2><div>Fall is a fun time in any school environment. Depending on when your school started for the year, the fall months of September, October, and November mean that students and staff have settled into a new routine. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRlcjH0nME661INf0B1lBDlVYUlndD8-a3d7vNo_yTTblHuVuF0U3GWC18OzUxH-bBdQHG8yqPGq_0vpC-GQIL2XnjBBdTdaN7qS-RgDKJNsuBKrSXZUI-Mu-34EzLTOCF1DoiyJMm9kTP2F0obZ2nLg1ShwyEtTEs_A0RnOstRC95cet1pbW29zH17gl/s1080/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20(5).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use the fall season to boost staff morale to help your teachers get all the warm and fuzzies this autumn." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRlcjH0nME661INf0B1lBDlVYUlndD8-a3d7vNo_yTTblHuVuF0U3GWC18OzUxH-bBdQHG8yqPGq_0vpC-GQIL2XnjBBdTdaN7qS-RgDKJNsuBKrSXZUI-Mu-34EzLTOCF1DoiyJMm9kTP2F0obZ2nLg1ShwyEtTEs_A0RnOstRC95cet1pbW29zH17gl/w338-h338/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20(5).png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall" width="338" /></a></div>Once the hectic air of back-to-school season has left the building, fall feels like a warm and cozy hug for most of us! </div><div><br /></div><div>As a long-time chairperson of my school's sunshine committee, fall was one of my favorite months to embrace special activities and events to boost staff morale. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are so many great themes to play on in the fall, plus it's a good idea to build those staff relationships before the holiday season rolls around! Today I'm sharing some ideas that are great for any time of year, but they're especially suited to fall! </div><div><br /></div><div>So if you're looking for new ways to recognize staff in your school, here are 5 fun ideas to inspire you. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Apple Buffet </h2><div>Nothing screams fall like all things apple in the Midwest! When I came up with the idea for an apple buffet, I was inspired by the local apple orchard just up the street from where I lived. If you've ever visited an apple orchard, you know there's a certain kind of "fall magic" that you can just feel in the air. The humble apple is a most prized fruit and is used to make all kinds of wonderful fall treats. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STAFF-MORALE-Apple-Buffet-and-Toppings-Fun-in-the-Staff-Lounge-8669619?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="An apple buffet full of sweet treats is a great way to boost staff morale with a fun fall twist." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMytnGxZbihAbsQbgUf70ToR4ptgVDUFoMagckPc6o_0mwdoNU9bADFcRRSpX1qvxIO92DFBjvUppJe5B7Sz_d6R9SPYKUlxiWnCJgLQNEVK7hc60JhXpQXzHjfwQeaMMa-HUC6nSqlhJFKTN4yjWJHvzPG_FB06KJgXxsBUeYqRNaz6DuApiSaG3bnRt/w339-h339/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!.png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Apple Buffet" width="339" /></a></div><div>Make the most of apple season in your area with an apple buffet for staff members! I did this by purchasing a variety of apples, and putting them out with all kinds of toppings. </div><div><br /></div><div>Some fun toppings include caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, crushed cookies, chopped nuts, and coconut. On the day of, simply set up a buffet table with paper plates, napkins, apple slicers, apples, and toppings. As staff pass the table, they can choose an apple, slice it, and dress it up! </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STAFF-MORALE-Apple-Buffet-and-Toppings-Fun-in-the-Staff-Lounge-8669619?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">This resource</a> includes announcement signs, decorative posters, sign-up sheets, ingredient labels, and reminder tags to make setup and planning a breeze. You can also decide if you'd like to run this as a potluck-style event or provide all of the ingredients yourself. Either way, this is a fun idea to celebrate autumn, and boost staff morale! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Jeans Day Certificates </h2><div>As a teacher who worked in a school with a strict dress code, nothing was better than having a "Jeans Day"! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Jeans-Day-7604508?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Boost staff morale this fall with awesome and super appreciated jeans day certificates." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocCy5mg9tXvSARMLKpXkfgSx5BJSJsgQTIH9YRfwK8xRPrOPGaWpWjXqVhPgCDXhgDDszFw1TtSRzWBmLNpG9hU6wjYlpNhSgKzOdt8rj8gC_M74vrGcJz2RBXVPXglFTmJMEJESzxTsaoVbfG-SFNuq2Xgpw-JjyIkbbPcfoq0FUYCagF3QL4PfEL9QY/w337-h337/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20(1).png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Jeans Day Certificates" width="337" /></a></div></div><div>And once fall rolls around, it's even better to be able to wear your coziest pair of jeans to school! </div><div><br /></div><div>Since I loved wearing jeans so much, and I knew my colleagues did too, using certificates for "Choose Your Own Jeans Day" was a total no-brainer. </div><div><br /></div><div>When I ran the sunshine committee, we used <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Jeans-Day-7604508?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">these certificates</a> as a prize for staff meetings, to celebrate holidays, and more. </div><div><br /></div><div>School administrators loved handing these out when they observed great lessons being taught during observations as well! </div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone loved getting the option to wear jeans on any day of their choice, and it's a great inexpensive option to add to your list of ways to thank staff for their hard work. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Soup Potluck </h2><div>Does your school have potlucks from time to time? We had them often, and while they were usually holiday-themed, my favorite was our annual Soup Potluck in the fall. Everyone loved not having to bring their lunch to school that day! Plus, what is more cozy and comforting than soup? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Potluck-Soup-Luncheon-Staff-Morale-Booster-6740019?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Boost staff morale with a tasty soup potluck your teachers and staff members will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgEMlgxWnOyO5BKY-G14yhfSjA8Q-NJ2Mbmek5z-KZ7r76TkT7Hwth2oIUit8I-_b06-emdiEmhXhSB_22lpwzxlrLFEoFepswCRxTXE32B0YJdJf3E3XsKyHkI3YCI9AGsRLqKr3lsObjnb45ICZ1jDUGjO7PbFp2MbDNU9Uiv4wIqd5Fh8O7wzkwFMW/w341-h341/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20(6).png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Soup Potluck" width="341" /></a></div>To host a soup potluck, I put out sign-up sheets well in advance to make sure we had a nice variety available. On the day of, I set up enough tables to hold everything and provided power strips for everyone to plug in their slow cookers. In the morning, staff would come in and set up their pot along with little tags that said what kind they brought. </div><div><br /></div><div>When lunchtime rolled around, everyone was so excited to taste test different soups and enjoy them with bread or crackers. I love the sense of community that comes with potlucks! It's always fun to host this on a Friday, or the day after a big local football game was held. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Potluck-Soup-Luncheon-Staff-Morale-Booster-6740019?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">This resource</a> helps make planning and executing a soup potluck fun and simple. Included, are announcements, sign-up sheets, a timeline for a successful soup day, reminders, room décor, and more!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Staff Appreciation Post-It Notes </h2><div>Over the years, I have discovered that one of the BEST ways to boost staff morale is through small tokens of appreciation. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Post-It-Note-Templates-8215621?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use staff appreciation notes like these to boost staff morale this fall and show your teachers, support staff, and aides how much you appreciate all their hard work." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPxggQXWFtfy2BeuSj1SZ2xaoFMWu43rYv4T_OhvSaUjkiBO998xUCplOUm_vaMDJI-eJu2E6_VDt1h8tIF80slNI3WQXZDJ7GAB2cT4cLfDxk5dAQzSxLFmgsiyxVTeAAWb61752OT_JQU9ahUp-ABsia5AbhBjk0W-oSQA_-xtC_yUxz90ojC9bkxQF/w337-h337/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20(3).png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Staff Appreciation Notes" width="337" /></a></div></div><div>That's why I love <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Post-It-Note-Templates-8215621?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">these Post-it notes</a> so much! They're simple and easy to use, and always leave a big impact. </div><div><br /></div><div>This resource comes with 18 different messages that will brighten any staff member's day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Simply choose your template, affix your post-its to it, and load them into the printer. </div><div><br /></div><div>Add a personal touch after printing and you're good to go! Then, pop these on your colleagues' desks, on a car window, on a wall, or in another spot you know they'll find it. </div><div><br /></div><div>These are a fun and easy way to show that you're thinking of them and that their hard work is appreciated! </div><div><br /></div><div>These are also nice to hand out (unfilled) to staff members so that they can recognize each other throughout the year. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. October Staff Boo</h2><div>This last idea is perfect for the month of October, and SO much fun! This activity begins slowly and picks up speed as other staff members get involved. Start it at the beginning of the month for the most fun! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STAFF-MORALE-Youve-Been-Booed-For-Staff-Members-October-8624919?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Get everyone involved in a boosting staff morale with this fun Boo activity to keep spirits high all fall." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5hjny3eNbvnHbXHvTDppGRLrpnYmyywwKJ6NZYyj23GZkiwvsLQ2Kmt5MSqpH8wFT4ObXYiROUivYPLJpNxOkCFmKuZfEwLDD3EAKextCAE1JfAhKzReB1h_VdZBFHaf7F884nNQkImuEDi-B8HxNP8QgMBKcrT4StsPlg6oFN8LvVwMwgzMZZcy4Y9r/w354-h354/5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!%20(4).png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall October Staff Boo" width="354" /></a></div><div>To implement it, you will begin the chain by making 2 copies of the BOO sign included in <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/STAFF-MORALE-Youve-Been-Booed-For-Staff-Members-October-8624919?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">this resource.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>You'll choose colleagues to BOO and pick up a special treat for them at a drive-through, or grocery store. </div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, you'll leave the signs and treats at their desk and place another sign on the door. </div><div><br /></div><div>When the staff member finds their sign and treat, they continue the chain by doing the same. The pace picks up as more and more staff are BOOed throughout the building! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is always a staff favorite and such a wonderful way to boost staff morale. This resource comes in handy when used alongside the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">Staff Favorites Book</a> as well. That way everyone will have plenty of treat ideas to get for their colleagues!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Have Fun Boosting Staff Morale this Fall </h2><div>Which of these staff morale-boosting activities was your favorite? It's hard to choose, and the good news is that you don't have to! In fact, I have found that including lots of activities like these throughout the year is the best way to help ensure that staff know they're appreciated and keep morale high. Plus, activities like these make any school more fun to work at, which was always reason enough for me!</div><div><br /></div><div>Have fun planning your own staff morale events and activities this fall! If you'd like to take a closer look at these resources, along with lots of others, you can <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning/Category/STAFF-MORALE-BOOSTERS-297064?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20this%20Fall!" target="_blank">check them out in my TPT shop!</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx82E5ZIBkfHiD-vzrWtIAFP0lOVGR7aDagcJt-Um81TeUW_Pj3KDphQvptunHG_O-QYACc1NAX1btk7_FB6lL_cyZhsgr5F4Jf9KofddDalkRyaIIyAut6cfHg_L7AK_z763rJPyKxr0afUmOCEyqxJrBgVJbk2jOTmer-Hus5KUVaIXtTEoQ8L6jLZpz/s1500/2.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for ways to boost staff morale this fall? These awesome ideas will help you show your teachers and staff how much you appreciate all their hard work this fall season. From tasty treats, to sweet notes, to jeans day certificates, your staff will love all of these fun ideas. #tarynsuniquelearning #staffappreciation #fallstaffappreciation #booststaffmorale #waystobooststaffmorale" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx82E5ZIBkfHiD-vzrWtIAFP0lOVGR7aDagcJt-Um81TeUW_Pj3KDphQvptunHG_O-QYACc1NAX1btk7_FB6lL_cyZhsgr5F4Jf9KofddDalkRyaIIyAut6cfHg_L7AK_z763rJPyKxr0afUmOCEyqxJrBgVJbk2jOTmer-Hus5KUVaIXtTEoQ8L6jLZpz/w213-h320/2.png" title="5 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-32434347020392108302023-08-23T17:52:00.001-07:002023-08-23T18:27:19.586-07:006 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year! <div>Ahhhh, back-to-school time. If you're headed back to school or in session already, you know what an important time of year this is. Back to school season marks the beginning of a new year and offers an opportunity to set the tone for the months ahead. Make sure to pay attention to classroom procedures and expectations! You can make this back to school season your best with just a few simple techniques and resources! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbqnMvipS4sO4hFLf7JXR6N7Jxmz3P46pG1stGYExenoqKlaURJsuWL3HpFEdWghFDKp7CrcjaAegaCt-pm8ura2KmeRCNzLPyFJq0oyEDy-E4_cU8HzAZ4YUaahbeaVP11dSP0DVDX_6vpCDR4QELkbuuTx7tUAOiN4N0juGtYAE_UZOehQAZAdX3WkX/s2240/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these fun back to school activities to set the tone for the first few months of school." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbqnMvipS4sO4hFLf7JXR6N7Jxmz3P46pG1stGYExenoqKlaURJsuWL3HpFEdWghFDKp7CrcjaAegaCt-pm8ura2KmeRCNzLPyFJq0oyEDy-E4_cU8HzAZ4YUaahbeaVP11dSP0DVDX_6vpCDR4QELkbuuTx7tUAOiN4N0juGtYAE_UZOehQAZAdX3WkX/w640-h360/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20Header.png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">Setting the Tone for a Fantastic Year </h2><div>If you've been teaching for a while, you already know that how you start the year will dictate how the rest of it goes. And if this is your first year teaching, it won't take long to discover this fact! The beginning of the year is that important! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibA_wX0jKLb3Y6rT-3Tp3TxYtcihI9kJmU42nNsn9P5em0J7ByuXj1KzbH56KvKe60joQld6YgjG1GAEfEOx5o1ngAjbuuxG2nF_JyC9FB3UGw6LC8fwgPn42_hgr8t0I1-9BIrdRiU0xE0DjtF0Ts2a1VMgUvVNxwhIqRVq0oXSBJxT_pe8sE6h9MVUwE/s1080/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(6).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Set the tone for a fun and stress-free school year with these back to school activities aimed at helping your students learn the expectations for classroom behaviors." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibA_wX0jKLb3Y6rT-3Tp3TxYtcihI9kJmU42nNsn9P5em0J7ByuXj1KzbH56KvKe60joQld6YgjG1GAEfEOx5o1ngAjbuuxG2nF_JyC9FB3UGw6LC8fwgPn42_hgr8t0I1-9BIrdRiU0xE0DjtF0Ts2a1VMgUvVNxwhIqRVq0oXSBJxT_pe8sE6h9MVUwE/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(6).png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>Setting our students up to know the class and school expectations right off the bat will not only make classroom management easier on us, but it will also help them be successful too! </div><div><br /></div><div>When we take the time to help our students learn the ropes in a new classroom, it helps them feel safe and secure, and supported in learning. Students thrive in environments with predictable schedules and clearly outlined rules. </div><div><br /></div><div>Over the years, I have tried so many different tools and methods for managing my classroom. There were some clear winners and some flops too. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today, I'm going to save you the trouble of trying all the things and instead share my top 6 resources for a successful, smooth year!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6 Back to School Resources that Will Make Your Life Easier!</h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Classroom Behavior Activities Game</h2><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Classroom-Behavior-Management-Activities-Behavior-Choices-Game-7161561?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">This game</a> is one of my absolute favorites to use during back to school season. It's a great ice-breaker game for the first week of school and helps students think about what types of choices are acceptable for the classroom and which are not.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Classroom-Behavior-Management-Activities-Behavior-Choices-Game-7161561?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a fun game like back to school activity like this to help your students understand the difference between good and bad choices in the classroom." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqJzWpJ1UEWlE_DyP72Nsps8R9vKeAluBAxbtiJSASsPAUquIqQA63uuBJEPwgHpRBx8VA0QDt3jhyYK5pNkB4QwOeeRhMtCnbBo2wiPw7AW9ufR6jxk3pEknU2cD_g8kHm8xEAEoyQgxTvMoi0wLaKiT9Az1OFjpeJbyQ067_fexu2WSKGyug4jU1NIh/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20.png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year Classroom Behavior Game" width="320" /></a></div><div>To introduce the topic of choices, there is a picture sorting game that can be played as a whole group. You can sort the pictures out on the floor during your morning meeting or use a pocket chart while your kiddos are seated at their desks. There are three different vocabulary choices to choose from based on the language you'd like to use in your classroom. The options include:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Good Choice vs. Bad Choice</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Choice</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I Will vs. I Will Not</li></ul><div>Once you've practiced sorting out behaviors as a class, your kiddos can play the spinner game with a partner or independently. They will take turns spinning, name the behavior, and mark a tally down to show if it's a positive or negative behavior. I love the community-building aspect of this activity and the gentle nudge it gives students toward making smart choices. </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Transportation Headbands</h2><div>One of the biggest headaches for any teacher in the classroom at the start of the year is transportation. With a handful of students getting picked up, others taking the bus, and some walking home, it can take a lot of work to keep it all straight. If you teach young children, this can be a big source of stress for them as well! Take the pressure off with <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Transportation-Dismissal-Chart-and-Headbands-Back-to-School-Activities-2596401?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">transportation headbands</a> for the first week of school! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Transportation-Dismissal-Chart-and-Headbands-Back-to-School-Activities-2596401?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this transportation signs like these to help you and your students remember how they are getting home each day and are a great addition to your back to school activities." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqYuGVNRORQUnMD_pvvbGePGpFBK7pm5SaMV8HpRJ5MwDU1rg0zm1nFIpdf1BP1NwFwwlWiujfEtUr_arwWo_fN_y91dmAKafnPiWTw6L0jQ4POQZAU41FQA3sBKK0N6kkf70Dp64qjBLt42eQkTqDaJiERGOwkZ_B2jrfDvZgVf6CNFk1naiAWlNuqlh/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(1).png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year Transportation" width="320" /></a></div>This system is designed to keep transportation methods organized and simple to remember. Each child will get their own headband showing their transportation method for the day. If children go home in different ways, they can make a new headband each day as a reminder. Students will love wearing their headbands, which will help calm the chaos when it's time to head home for the day too! The options included are:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>bus</li><li>walking</li><li>car rider</li><li>van to after-school care</li><li>bike rider</li><li>subway</li><li>taxi </li><li>blank for you to add your own option </li></ul></div><div>Also included in this resource is a large classroom bulletin board display that can be changed by the day. Use clothespins for each student and move them as needed to each category. There is also a class list that you can quickly glance at before dismissal for a final double-check. This system is a great way to reduce stress during the first week of school and would also be helpful for a substitute! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Book Care Activities </h2><div><div>If you're a teacher in the primary classroom, I'm willing to bet you've shelled out much of your money on supplies like books for your classroom library. We want to be able to use those books for many years. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Book-Care-Classroom-Read-Aloud-Library-Book-Care-9702619?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this back to school book care activity to help teach your students how to care for all of the books in your classroom and school library this year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzody_Ru-ML3MOS_vscBl0Z2ZslOMyc_5dB6Egy2H0OVhT2U3aepY0PYgTSKuawoGvuybyLLac_Q5UrvPuXS9hUaBDkqJO0R70kqjP-wDAe58_qX6yqk9oP4XwytjK0m32UD9sdZLnHq1A4VP2zYLVm6MYlhErPQnSm0nyN544ZCkGgSaPWrlHiA_ymRSm/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(2).png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year Book Care Activities" width="320" /></a></div>Sometimes, our young students come to us without a lot of experience with books. It's up to us to help them learn the expectations for using books, both in the classroom and at home. One of the best ways to do this is by teaching children proper care procedures for books. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>At the beginning of the year, I love using a read-aloud that helps students understand the proper way to take care of our classroom library books. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Book-Care-Classroom-Read-Aloud-Library-Book-Care-9702619?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">This story, Book Care</a>, is split into sections that cover topics like how we take care of books, the reading environment, preparing to read, after reading, and more. It's a great way to make the expectations of the reading area crystal clear during back to school time!</div><div><br /></div><div>After we've read the story, I always placed it on a shelf in the reading area as a reminder. Another great reminder are <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Book-Care-Classroom-Library-Posters-2245532?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">these posters</a> that display the same info and can be posted in the library as a visual aid. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Teach Students to Use Scissors Safely </h2><div>One of my favorite ways to ensure we were set up for a successful school year was by teaching students how to use classroom supplies and materials. In the primary classroom, scissors are used just about every day. If not used properly, this can get stressful and scary! Help your students learn to use them correctly with another fun read-aloud.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Scissors-Safety-Story-3510421?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This back to school activity helps your students understand how to safely use scissors at the beginning of the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzwAGMkydY8z1jh4nh4NrQvQkphSo-bcZLvVZU1YDs7GglDQaGKsP81scQZA1JUyuSmcoqkS_Vr6UKnG42q3oVbIZYwQEtPVryt5ceurpWaFgQiTz2k9nioXO72piS5VWwFBsThNKykzjDXUwwN5CBPKoanq0gVB1HSGJ0999o-CjQXbxe1SAMG0605Na/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(3).png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year Scissor Safety" width="320" /></a></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Scissors-Safety-Story-3510421?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">This book, Scissor Safety Story</a>, is a great way to chat with kiddos about the seriousness of using scissors. It discusses proper grip and the rules for using them in the classroom. Some of the points (no pun intended) include the following:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Being seated while cutting </li><li>Appropriate items to cut and inappropriate items to cut </li><li>Transporting scissors with the blades in a closed fist and more!</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div>This is a great book to laminate and bind together. Then you can read it several times and make it available to students in the classroom library. Anytime you have a kiddo that seems to have forgotten the rules, direct them toward this book for a refresher! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Read Aloud for Using Glue and Gluesticks </h2><div><div>Speaking of school supplies, remember to teach your students how to use glue and gluesticks too! </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Glue-Practice-Using-Glue-Sticks-and-Bottles-Printable-Read-Aloud-7253321?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="This back to school book will help your students use glue appropriately in your classroom this year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKDKK0z0f4AK9ALES3-TDTIA0BaCgfR6NuuEoSb0GW6Y1xd9dVCAzvsqUP_XnGSWyL7MPF281NWxsL5_rlCjoA_r8gSYrnnq0mcUS-EyGJ_i16GE1sOIHLw3k5N7Krx-AY-54AFxi8t4T_s7dSkIajbHud0MCYYnjRWHvKWPF5STDsvp8B11Hv0RZa5sr/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(4).png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year Read Aloud for using Glue and Gluesticks" width="320" /></a></div><div>I don't know about you, but one of my pet peeves is finding gluesticks that dried up because someone left the cap off. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Helping students learn how to use glue and put it away is essential! </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Glue-Practice-Using-Glue-Sticks-and-Bottles-Printable-Read-Aloud-7253321?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">This fun read-aloud</a> will help students learn all the do's and don't of using glue. This is an excellent book for back to school time, but it also comes in handy before a big art project! </div><div><br /></div><div><div>If you teach in the primary grades, your students likely haven't had much practice with using glue. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Having a way to remind them of the expectations <i>before</i> you start any arts or crafts projects will help make the process so much smoother! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Personal Dictionary </h2><div>This last resource is SO great for young readers and writers. If you've ever taught in a primary classroom, I'm sure you've experienced having multiple students come up to you asking how to spell a specific word over and over <i>and over.</i> </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Personal-Dictionary-Writing-Folder-Student-Dictionary-with-Pictures-K-2-6790132?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Creating personal dictionaries like these is a great back to school activity you can start at the beginning of the year and keep adding to throughout the school year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kZwZhjo1GP25BB0hmqoytaa2sCaManljC8rxfJxchR4pjSiUYxiLDiXIfTpPj-SZbROM41KsleHqSuHsUn5rpjeEAMjinJuefeADjmYO_dpkiSL34g8DYWy9miLTM_OAS5bVtQM1y_DXCPDJl_1Jb0m9QMh_nAKRLN2xbLPO0yYOCqvsUlfZ8QfkYBxd/w320-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20%20(5).png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year Personal Dictionary" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div>As teachers, we want to support our students and help them learn proper spellings of common words, but we also want to teach them how to use tools so they can work independently! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is where the personal dictionary comes in handy! This personal dictionary is a growing word bank. Each month students get a list of words that are perfect for that month. With a picture above each word, even pre-readers can use this personal picture dictionary. As the school year goes on, more pages are added. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are pages for each month and seasonal and thematic pages to offer various options for your students. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Personal-Dictionary-Writing-Folder-Student-Dictionary-with-Pictures-K-2-6790132?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">These personal dictionaries</a> are a valuable resource tool for students. Not only do they help with spelling and building vocabulary, but they cut down on the number of times you will hear "How do you spell. . ." Help foster independence and encourage growth in writing skills with these personal dictionaries! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Easing Into a Great School Year </h2><div>Each of these resources have been classroom tested and approved by students and teachers alike. They are all valuable tools to helping you put in place a solid foundation for the year.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're interested in checking out some more back to school resources to support learning in other ways, be sure to <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning/Category/August-245823?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20" target="_blank">check out my TPT shop!</a> It's filled with even more fun activities that will help you have your best year yet! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>This post is filled with all my favorite classroom management resources for returning to school. Pin it on Pinterest to keep these activities at your fingertips!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAQn875AgP-EINUKrTzKRo-RbjLdMSj-aWxOgIoKh5qKI-7rvxskk02HVZFljKagGeQ3lQd3IvEdHIQw4ZctvXqrcVScPAFBcNNaKQdGflol-NFSgIN_iZSJOjqIkyA_lb7fh5ws-BIuDkXSSFZaIaJ3GE9dq6AhdtG0Np4cJrXZv2f3fHZvC60ATgP8v/s1500/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 6 back to school resources to get your students prepared for an amazing school year this year. From incredibly helpful books on how to use common school supplies like scissors and glue to a game-like behavior expectation activity, your students will love making and using these activities as they get into the swing of the new year. #tarynsuniquelearning #backtoschoolresources #backtoschoolactivity #classroomexpectations" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUAQn875AgP-EINUKrTzKRo-RbjLdMSj-aWxOgIoKh5qKI-7rvxskk02HVZFljKagGeQ3lQd3IvEdHIQw4ZctvXqrcVScPAFBcNNaKQdGflol-NFSgIN_iZSJOjqIkyA_lb7fh5ws-BIuDkXSSFZaIaJ3GE9dq6AhdtG0Np4cJrXZv2f3fHZvC60ATgP8v/w213-h320/6%20Back%20to%20School%20Resources%20for%20a%20Smooth%20Start%20to%20the%20Year!%20pin.png" title="6 Back to School Resources for a Smooth Start to the Year" width="213" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-40024269094964872882023-08-07T21:31:00.035-07:002023-08-10T18:04:18.427-07:008 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year <div>Boosting staff morale in a school environment is an ongoing process, but one that is well worth it! Schools with high staff morale are likely to be more enjoyable work environments and ultimately serve our students better. If you're hoping to find fresh new ways to keep morale high by encouraging teachers, administrators, and other school staff members, you're in luck! I've got eight fun ways to boost staff morale in your school all year long. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-D_bt90HLrlXhW2sOv7roygwSnwkKT641n1S_SwNPmTmzFB62gddgUI4hxflX4qeTel0gxdspX-0vb-bRZxXQkdaaS1bOEMJM_Od_UnMYKw0PdickOA8YUanG2fRokjbmzk3M_LxhJqbJvy_TTYK96P5Acv3AzDb-gTmYkAa1vh_TiI5xEyxlVEqwkdzd/s2240/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Boost staff morale in your school this year with these awesome ideas everyone is sure to love." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-D_bt90HLrlXhW2sOv7roygwSnwkKT641n1S_SwNPmTmzFB62gddgUI4hxflX4qeTel0gxdspX-0vb-bRZxXQkdaaS1bOEMJM_Od_UnMYKw0PdickOA8YUanG2fRokjbmzk3M_LxhJqbJvy_TTYK96P5Acv3AzDb-gTmYkAa1vh_TiI5xEyxlVEqwkdzd/w640-h360/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20Header.png" title="8 WAYS TO BOOST STAFF MORALE" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Staff Morale Matters </h2><div>Whether you're an administrator, on the PTO, or running a "sunshine committee" in your school, staff morale is a vital piece of the puzzle for a happy school community. Anyone who works in the school system knows a lot goes into it! Aside from the workload itself, interacting with young children and their families requires a lot of emotional energy as well.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinn_no4GZcTBpDzdcO4vz194u30Ggsg5H7HPUcJ8aduBA_eIcJyXJlgn8u_XfdQVq_iqMB_Z8ZjWWuJlktiHtrFA5XrSszcWJmu4To8-vf3ksiRvxM2VTTfxw1w8AhGcp1JzIBUQ72BN5HVN-08FkDQk60HKic2rY5tepW4v09cscTNUxnZeInqBBA2aiC/s1080/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(7).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Keeping staff morale high in your school will be the key to success this school year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinn_no4GZcTBpDzdcO4vz194u30Ggsg5H7HPUcJ8aduBA_eIcJyXJlgn8u_XfdQVq_iqMB_Z8ZjWWuJlktiHtrFA5XrSszcWJmu4To8-vf3ksiRvxM2VTTfxw1w8AhGcp1JzIBUQ72BN5HVN-08FkDQk60HKic2rY5tepW4v09cscTNUxnZeInqBBA2aiC/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(7).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year" width="320" /></a></div><div>Our school workers are facing challenging situations regularly, working long hours, and truly trying to make an impact. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's obvious that this type of work, though incredibly rewarding, can also be draining. In other words, we need to ensure that we're filling those cups as often as we empty them!</div><div><br /></div><div>One of the best ways to do this is by guiding staff toward relationships and building a sense of community. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are many ways to do this, but some are more effective than others for community building. As a long-time member of the sunshine committee at our school (who also had a teacher's perspective), a few things stood out among the rest.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're unsure where to start, I've got you covered! Here are 8 of my favorite ways to boost staff morale and help facilitate meaningful connections. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Staff Favorites Booklet </h2><div>This first idea is such a fun one to set in place at the beginning of the year since it will come in handy over and over again. Think about this - have you ever wanted to show appreciation to a friend or colleague but weren't quite sure what they liked? I know this happened to me on more than one occasion! Because of this, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">I created a booklet</a> that would hold all of the staff "favorites" in one neat little spot. </div><div><br /></div><div>To use, have all staff members fill out their own favorites page at the beginning of the year. The booklet asks things like:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Favorites-Booklet-3917833?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a staff favorites booklet like this at the beginning of the year to learn about what your staff loves and treat them to some of their favorites to help boost staff morale throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbax2E2_htOweBFYYNEZxdOfNQuEdBpU8hCjRd2MB8gt8JnZXkT0EGr8tKGDL7erYwUyBYsGOsEl1LispF1JX2XuemW4pcqZYB34aUfoh0FQNlRm8WxkWTrunwFMMnoh0eJX01a2jTN2On3bdz_uGSEwepU4KD_HJ5C4ArXl7yyY5BRDEEwxmTOxeGJy1h/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year.png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Staff Favorites Booklet" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>favorite hot & cold drinks </li><li>favorite sweet & salty treats</li><li>favorite pens</li><li>favorite store</li><li>favorite restaurant, and more!</li></ul><div>Once you've got everyone's page back, make multiple copies (I made 8 for our school) and place them in plastic sleeves in a 3-ring binder. The plastic sleeves allow for easy updates. You can organize the pages alphabetically and use alphabet dividers if desired as well. Place the books in strategic areas around the school like team workrooms, in the office, near the copy machines, etc. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Staff can then access the book of favorites anytime they like to show random acts of kindness to fellow staff members. This is a simple project for the beginning of the year, and it pays off over time!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Staff Goodie Bags </h2><div>Another one of my favorite ways to boost staff morale is with <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Goodie-Bags-7201819?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">fun little goodie bags</a> that can be used any time of year. You really don't need a special occasion for these, but they're great for:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>staff appreciation day </li><li>back to school </li><li>holiday breaks </li><li>just for fun </li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxTRwXYVkiA3SBvekVD63SXy9RfTI0FfbUpxIPaSCGSakBkN9iI2aQBiEJH-XXb9lHTFboSVYuniWldY32Uew' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>These little goodie bags feature festive bag toppers, a fun list of reminders, and small tokens of appreciation. Some of the things included are objects like post-its to remind staff to "stick with it and persevere" and tea to "take time to relax."</div><div><br /></div><div>These simple and inexpensive items, along with the fun little printable and baggie toppers, always make staff smile! However, the best part of these bags is how quick they are to prep. Choose a bag topper, print your materials, and fill it with goodies, that's it!</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Editable Staff Birthday Chart </h2><div>If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate staff birthdays, you need a birthday chart! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Birthday-Display-7120306?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this editable staff birthday chart to help boost staff morale by making sure everyone feels important and remembered on their special day." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP3nKrzv1qUrFatLy_zjVjkCT3v9p5QTdmJ3WUM4Wjbogt4iiAkLACg_EXCp6ftNMunxA3F4QwFxHdetDevmvfqBQw2BZYquiegF0FWkYaIO1hX33PCDHdB1P5EaKcUdZR73yjzBBhBHoWr3AZCb_w8FISdRhFbsJPjCEd6hClj2GILmeHMt4qWi9x_sl-/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(2).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Editable Staff Birthday Chart" width="320" /></a></div>This resource will help everyone stay on top of staff birthdays and make planning celebrations simple. </div><div><br /></div><div>We all know how hard it can be to remember ALL birthdays when you have a large staff body. </div><div><br /></div><div>This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Birthday-Display-7120306?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">Editable Birthday Chart</a> is super simple to use and will make this process easier. At a meeting, have staff jot down their name and birthday on a post-it note and collect them. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you're ready, enter the info into the document, and it will automatically populate it by day and month.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, print it out, and hang up each monthly chart or a few at a time to help everyone remember their colleague's birthdays. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Staff Morale Scratch Off-Tickets </h2><div>If you're looking for a fun way to reward staff throughout the year, you'll love these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Scratch-Off-Tickets-Staff-Appreciation-Prizes-6774359?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">Scratch-off Tickets!</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Scratch-Off-Tickets-Staff-Appreciation-Prizes-6774359?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Scratch off tickets like these can boost staff morale with fun seasonal themed rewards your staff will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5T8xKVjJOdU9Xx674iFc8EXEO54aQG-GarCCRqwcZJidaWdGPizCmorpc2RpAnmyHsO7vxjn9IOYh5kcrgLmyCh86l3PtHkpKAe3hsVtxdRVBXh04lDNaL3CwLKXplFdUXMVxhqB_xgF3GDkTdBJj029Rv_P1KFOtMskX6Z88W_kGulWgjsMSl3h1-oz/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(1).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Scratch off Tickets" width="320" /></a></div>They're aligned with seasonal themes like back to school, Halloween, Thanksgiving, December holidays, and more! So you can use them all year long. They feature fun rewards like:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>jeans day </li><li>recess coverage </li><li>special treat provided</li><li>prime parking and more! </li></ul><div>These rewards help keep staff motivated and will add some fun to your monthly meetings. </div><div><br /></div><div>To use, you'll choose which rewards to feature and print enough for your staff. You can print them on scratch-off paper or use the DIY scratch-off paint recipe included in the resource. </div><div><br /></div><div>Either way, this will be a fun way to mix things up and boost staff morale all year long! </div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Chalk Marker Messages </h2><div>Another one of my favorite things to do to help boost staff morale is to leave little messages on mirrors and windows. You can do this by purchasing <a href="https://amzn.to/3s4iHcy" target="_blank">some chalk markers like these.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3s4iHcy" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use chalk markers like these to write fun notes on mirrors to show your appreciation for your staff and boost staff morale in a fun way." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBdhWULgkMK3MwVjt_wtps4wH-C21juakdEZp6KYNyKyHLjcFVyV00N6KQ9q0ApgVI29PJbk-xX62X8Q66aY_bOrXvIGzDZ7T2f6Jaz359GB9wnbbcGPag7XH6dshZraLyi-YxzX1olfhrOFsrrd5DieaC-WNTGAzo78D6VcH77mW03Gb9WAJymyvrE3Ql/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(3).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Chalk Markers" width="320" /></a></div>Simply write a fun message, joke, or inspirational quote on bathroom mirrors or staff lounge windows. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can swap these out every week to keep it interesting or leave the markers out for staff to write their own messages. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've also used these on a chalkboard in the staff lounge for encouragement and kind notes to fellow staff members. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just leave a jar of markers, and get the process started by writing a few compliments to staff members. Soon others will follow, and your board will be filled with kind notes! </div><div><br /></div><div>The options for this idea are endless and really help boost staff morale and build relationships. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Set Up a Breakfast Cart </h2><div>One of the BEST ways to offer opportunities to build relationships is through events with food! All cultures and communities typically come together through feasting of some kind! This is also true for your school community. Special meals are a great way to show appreciation and help bring people together to socialize and spark conversations.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NbmjmtCTNk6ERZwiKvRuxTTRRUgXo_yuBRs3xgA1iV47yUrD5WuT_yKVt1cMbRROoa8zRMmya1sdChXZiSAMbpnYyYAH-udOTGSoRzgSXdhvVSPEHlNtl2VV09Q7cVaIAosDZk6S_vt1NcSTb479jkPlKKDo7ON8dPg_cL8IW6a6Z7gK82muDr99ZYy7/s1080/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(4).png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="A breakfast cart like this is a great way to boost staff morale with delicious goodies every month." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NbmjmtCTNk6ERZwiKvRuxTTRRUgXo_yuBRs3xgA1iV47yUrD5WuT_yKVt1cMbRROoa8zRMmya1sdChXZiSAMbpnYyYAH-udOTGSoRzgSXdhvVSPEHlNtl2VV09Q7cVaIAosDZk6S_vt1NcSTb479jkPlKKDo7ON8dPg_cL8IW6a6Z7gK82muDr99ZYy7/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(4).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Breakfast Cart" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I loved to help facilitate this with a fun breakfast cart once per month. In my school, our teams would take turns hosting the breakfast cart as sort of a potluck-style activity. </div><div><br /></div><div>I did this with a sign-up sheet that allowed each team to choose the month they'd like to sign up for in advance. We picked dates ahead of time and assigned a month to each team. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, once the date grew near, we used sign-up sheets for that team to allot who would bring what. In <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Breakfast-Cart-4479240?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">the resource I created for facilitating a monthly staff breakfast,</a> there are also reminder signs and cute decorations for the cart itself. </div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone loved being a part of this monthly activity; it was a great way to build relationships among staff! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Staff Address Book </h2><div>When I was still in the classroom, we lost access to the district-wide address book at one point.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Morale-Staff-Address-Book-4385187?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a staff address book like this as a way to encourage everyone to send special thank you cards, get well cards, or notes of encouragement which will build staff morale throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuyYi0wZizEZGraBOMhgh58U7MOoo3Cee30qQi_-sojEh74yjTGK0JfJD45X38T5wRZasDSQW1WxbWY13wrxkHdv1Re7pOij37ICQ9h4wDfN7bqZ-GgoIoZ7wYKuFYFYh8KbPbK9LDk4L6YB62GaZgpkPkrAbe2SWq3OXHdVAiPME1GtdhQsdAVOtGCjAT/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(5).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Staff Address Book" width="320" /></a></div>Because of this, we could no longer find the contact info of our colleagues. When this happened, I made a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Morale-Staff-Address-Book-4385187?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">staff address book</a> for everyone to opt into instead. </div><div><br /></div><div>This came in so handy whenever we wanted to send a special act of kindness or celebrate a staff member. Some reasons you might want an address book are so that you're able to send the following:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>thank you cards </li><li>get well cards </li><li>congratulations on a new baby </li><li>birthday cards </li><li>encouragement to someone facing a difficult time</li><li>just because notes</li></ul><div style="text-align: left;">Having this book available to staff is a great way to encourage closer connections among staff. Simply have staff members fill them out at the beginning of the year and bind them into a book stored in the staff lounge. You'll use this one again and again! </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Orange You Glad It's Friday?! </h2><div>This last one is a simple and fun way to put a smile on staff members' faces. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Friday-Treat-8378994?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use cute printable tags like these to go with special treats to show you care and boost staff morale throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqhErWzM06HUU0ixoRJbanTrJzTfFs4YTraCHAn-O3gGUrr5vvoSwB9D0urS4M1j0pZkpB0UsGzkGsCXf9zvlQxaF0_bQIW43H62S4z8CkNyhSOHP-EbPqywgr48gs1XHqkqbnRTZjv91gL4qEa8ODQML_2dgmjMc-wCGU7b25P8sGIVSDJm3bFeN6fry/w320-h320/8%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20in%20Your%20School%20This%20Year%20(6).png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Printable Tags" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Friday-Treat-8378994?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">These cute printable tags</a> pair perfectly with oranges as a fun Friday treat. </div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>You can print these tags off in full color or black and white on orange Astrobrights paper. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, grab a bunch of oranges, mandarins, or cuties and place them in a large bowl. </div><div><br /></div><div>Post the tags on the door of the staff lounge, and scatter them around the table where the bowl of oranges is for a fun surprise. </div><div><br /></div><div>Staff will love grabbing a healthy sweet treat to celebrate Friday any time of year! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">Focus on Community Building to Keep Staff Morale High </h2><div>I hope these ideas helped inspire you in new ways to boost staff morale all year long. If you can't decide on a favorite, be sure to check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Super-Big-Bundle-9643263?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" target="_blank">Staff Morale "Super Big" Bundle.</a> This bundle will make planning meaningful staff activities simple and fun no matter what time of year it is. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Super-Big-Bundle-9643263?utm_source=TARYNS%20BLOG&utm_campaign=8%20STAFF%20MORALE%20BOOSTERS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Staff Morale Super Big Bundle for all kids of ideas and resources to help build staff morale in your school this year." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEm5u9-tZ5oLz-6fkv4KY1vsEs_vd7mszdxT7JBwj5SCQdnOo_chwb7UGGu33P4KEhnJNGJb1XWmG6vOPWmDcEl4of0XX-gL_86HdBt6Dzk_m_zc69-ZjTpp8Oorqnuns_UHqvBgb78u8__f89g60tpeLjcKFkOX5QFyaf4mk2JknTyfiVmN4L5lLWxDl0/w320-h320/original-9643263-1.jpeg" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School This Year Super Big Bundle" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Above all, when choosing activities to boost staff morale in your school, think about ways for staff to connect. After all, many of us are genuinely looking for a way to feel understood, connect on difficult issues, and share in like-minded conversations. These types of experiences help build strong bonds in your school community and often cost little to facilitate. </div><div><br /></div><div>Your staff will appreciate opportunities to chat, socialize, and check in with each other. No matter which activities you choose to include, focus on making sure connection is at the heart of them! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>This post is jam-packed with fun ideas to boost staff morale! Pin it on Pinterest to keep these ideas handy! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhg2RIAmLZgeC4IjE22faB5tR_sgQQMOvl3C6V91-Zv7nWK2Jkv8pvXQKK23_m6qjrUoQpO2Bsmrv05KNoSC2NoFn0R1RMmQiDaI7oB0B0QKB0vcjqC4RHqXvxqAnITpIcjO7g-fHasrPlRd_xmJ6dtwmZ4BK-qcbW7vk1b9nyKt3QV2YoCwcHkDkFY3i/s1500/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun and easy ways to show your staff how much you appreciate them this year. Build staff morale with these fun ideas you can use all year long to show your staff you see how hard they work and how much you care for them. #tarynsuniquelearning #buildingstaffmorale #ideasforbuildingstaffmorale #keepingstaffmoralehigh" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhg2RIAmLZgeC4IjE22faB5tR_sgQQMOvl3C6V91-Zv7nWK2Jkv8pvXQKK23_m6qjrUoQpO2Bsmrv05KNoSC2NoFn0R1RMmQiDaI7oB0B0QKB0vcjqC4RHqXvxqAnITpIcjO7g-fHasrPlRd_xmJ6dtwmZ4BK-qcbW7vk1b9nyKt3QV2YoCwcHkDkFY3i/w213-h320/1.png" title="8 Ways to Boost Staff Morale in Your School" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-72529589327102031122023-07-26T14:30:00.000-07:002023-07-26T14:30:10.256-07:005 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons <div>Are you using a structured phonics program like <b>Orton Gillingham</b> in your classroom to help support your students? Programs like these are fantastic for in class instruction and phonics intervention, but over the years I would often find myself wanting a bit more support to implement their strategies. This led to the creation of some supplementary materials that align well with Orton Gillingham phonics lessons, and really any primary phonics program! If you're looking for new and exciting ways to engage your students in phonics lessons, check out 5 of my favorite tools and activities!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmVkYXOVGzHVjmet5CyhVTLB4rfFt3d9kO-ZHj_mZ7OOk9sOY3EjwcG5VzBPxRLT1j8FTVLgQGdaKUTFp2GhJ7on43qNr6A51OaCQtHucgzFSQRa-41nFOGcHLO2W6q6wZgC1gH9KOEFKa2DM_OGY9XYnVVaNXfR_YT7ea3r2SVwFqtLaWDmXlBBNhOfE/s2240/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these 5 activities to support your Orton Gillingham phonics lessons this year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmVkYXOVGzHVjmet5CyhVTLB4rfFt3d9kO-ZHj_mZ7OOk9sOY3EjwcG5VzBPxRLT1j8FTVLgQGdaKUTFp2GhJ7on43qNr6A51OaCQtHucgzFSQRa-41nFOGcHLO2W6q6wZgC1gH9KOEFKa2DM_OGY9XYnVVaNXfR_YT7ea3r2SVwFqtLaWDmXlBBNhOfE/w640-h360/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20Header.png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">What is Orton Gillingham Phonics Program? </h2><div>Orton Gillingham phonics is an approach that's used for remedial reading instruction in primary classrooms and becoming part of the core instruction within the classroom too. It uses a multisensory phonics technique that's fantastic for helping our students truly grasp and understand phonics. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsuiAaJTU5gGWso6-HH-g9rFvalkB04QIds2zhRxeU9nKe8xu_izDiuASwCC0z_iIp-HpHo62l3WOun-k9jkIuvBmHpB_Rb6GVnWWth76WQjcN39M12LPIiLu6IOhIBrk1c0H3_OwecNrB5qIYoThGLh0UxQ8dpG05PW9LTCbCg6wWAsPr2vmb72AcxcM/s1080/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20(5).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No matter what specific phonics program you are using incorporating Orton Gillingham phonics activities in your lessons will help your students learn, practice, and understand key phonics concepts." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsuiAaJTU5gGWso6-HH-g9rFvalkB04QIds2zhRxeU9nKe8xu_izDiuASwCC0z_iIp-HpHo62l3WOun-k9jkIuvBmHpB_Rb6GVnWWth76WQjcN39M12LPIiLu6IOhIBrk1c0H3_OwecNrB5qIYoThGLh0UxQ8dpG05PW9LTCbCg6wWAsPr2vmb72AcxcM/w362-h362/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20(5).png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons" width="362" /></a></div></div><div>It's often used for intervention and is excellent support for students with dyslexia, but really all students can benefit from this approach. </div><div><br /></div><div>This program focuses on using auditory lessons, visual aids, and hands-on learning activities to target phonics in many different ways. Aside from Orton Gillingham though, there are many other structured phonics programs out there that use a similar teaching format. </div><div><br /></div><div>And the good news is that even if you <i>aren't</i> using this particular phonics program with your students, you can still use all of the activities in this post! </div><div><br /></div><div>These activities are designed to be fun and engaging for students, focusing on a multisensory teaching approach that allows children to use hands-on learning. No matter what phonics program your school uses, your students will LOVE these engaging phonics lessons. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Blending Boards </h2><div>Whether you use Orton Gillingham phonics lessons or not, I think we can all agree that young students need lots of practice sounding out words and learning to blend letters to form CVC words. This is an activity that should happen daily in the primary classroom, especially for those students who need a little extra dedicated time for phonics intervention. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Blending-Boards-Year-Long-Work-Mats-7417317?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Seasonal blending boards like these will help your students practice sounding out words and learning how to blend letters for form CVC words." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-9C7CSMjFjPciI37IUev10_UC6UykT2IHndU0TdPcjiDMIKw7_456zzG_xpRwfGcrAn994s7Ip4ymVSJyvxZweYGw-pR0GO4nwv8GxEUW8xqQKn4qZh7bNXLM5d0rFC76Jot98R_VKwJG3IrM_066FoKOveWYSVFbTdKKojEaDGxxwKDPhDHYZCgBXWF/w351-h351/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20.png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons Blending Boards" width="351" /></a></div><div>As with anything that is a daily practice, the key to keeping it fun for kiddos is to add some kind of element that switches it up! When it comes to practicing blending, I loved to do this by using <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Blending-Boards-Year-Long-Work-Mats-7417317?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" target="_blank">seasonal blending boards</a> that change from month to month. </div><div><br /></div><div>The idea behind these blending boards is that students will choose consonants and vowels from each box to create their own CVC word. Building and blending CVC words is a huge win for new readers as they develop confidence. The piece that makes these blending boards fun though is the seasonal clipart on each one! The pictures align with the time of year, whether it's school buses for August, turkeys for November, or snow globes for January! Students will love working on blending with these fun activity mats. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Pound and Tap Cue Cards </h2><div>One of the strategies taught in the Orton Gillingham phonics lessons is to "pound and tap" out sounds as students read and write words. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Orton-Gillingham-Pound-and-Tap-Cue-Cards-3685193?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Pound and tap cue cards like these are a key strategy in the Orton Gillingham phonics techniques and can help your students practice saying each of the sounds of words." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyEk_8cXh5rS3_exURZZu8-f_VkR76tAjQCNkNdYprMAHiqjabUYxTem722Lzp_yMk3K5byrxmXbvbBk6G1B2JUi0A1sKdHmJ3SrDaicVh2jYin7YXRsPGfsxLPLClwAc5di1qJzc8KuFieFug6GWtEo8d2ohRGOVeDtmqQc7o3tqf0rr1D8zb6AreuNR/w355-h355/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20(1).png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons Pound and Tap Cue Cards" width="355" /></a></div></div><div>If a child is left-handed, they use their right to pound and tap, and vice versa if they are right-handed. </div><div><br /></div><div>The idea behind this concept is to help children break down the words into individual sounds. </div><div><br /></div><div>Since we used this technique all the time in my classroom, I <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Orton-Gillingham-Pound-and-Tap-Cue-Cards-3685193?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" target="_blank">created some cue cards and anchor charts</a> to help prompt and remind my students to do so. </div><div><br /></div><div>Every child got their own cue card for their desk. The card is personalized by skin tone and which hand they will use for the "pound and tap" technique. </div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to laminate the cards, and then tape them to the top corner of the desk that aligns with the hand they will use. </div><div><br /></div><div>These cue cards along with the anchor charts served as a great reminder to do this while both reading and writing too. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. B and D Reversal Posters & Desk Plates </h2><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/b-and-d-Reversal-Poster-Anchor-Chart-and-Desk-Plates-3566993?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Using b and d reversal posters nd desk plates like these help remind your students how to form each of these letters." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq13pUgFBpROtLuaDO3-IJdUp5-djQJkHrn3HCMPwq8IRFw37Ntz8INd0JKklHcdhWbaqefYg_UkW6-M1qvpL5osdmoybFsxX6GbIb52UFK-NfGCVp0BvOMCpU3We-wos0X7lvoiSIPuKh7oNzL1CLLlmADrVhTvo0XtATMtwmgoF2DAIwty0_R6q6o4pJ/w357-h357/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20(2).png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons B and D Reversal Posters and Desk Plates" width="357" /></a></div>As teachers in the primary classroom, we all know how easy it is for new readers to mix up lowercase b and d. In my experience, this is most common in grades kindergarten, first, and second, and can really trip those kiddos up as they try to sound out words! </div><div><br /></div><div>To help them get past this, I created some <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/b-and-d-Reversal-Poster-Anchor-Chart-and-Desk-Plates-3566993?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" target="_blank">B and D Reversal Posters</a> that serve as a quick and easy reminder. These cute posters show a picture of a bed as a visual reminder. On the card, there is both a lowercase b and d to help students remember which is which. </div><div><br /></div><div>There is also an option that shows an additional picture for each letter to further prompt students. </div><div><br /></div><div>These can be printed in poster size for classroom décor, or printed in the smaller options and taped to students' desks as a reminder. Both options are great for mastering those tricky "b" and "d" lowercase letters! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Phonics Flashcards </h2><div>This next phonics tool aligns with Orton Gillingham and my Recipe for Reading sequence. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use phonics flashcards like these to help your students learn individual letter sounds, digraphs, spelling patters, and more!" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRhBPZ3Xb--i7jpPsSjKtBf-5ZlxMLoB2MOyFlirXszU6vRBh5D_ZtbC1k6PvgDq8sfpuQ5O5Gl9AXyEv0vSU52tX9zJmrw7pjd6c7OKRScFVXgH87KCsXKLXLuUEmbiofBOGrieXPbutFKQW1BT98flg1Wy2mh3tE-1XTha9iiQ7vFfKUNmBUkz3ziEu/w350-h350/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20(3).png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons Phonics Flashcards" width="350" /></a></div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-BUNDLE-Recipe-for-Reading-Sequence-Orton-Gillingham-8173259?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" target="_blank">These phonics flashcards</a> are great for teaching individual letter sounds, digraphs, spelling patterns, or "hunks and chunks". </div><div><br /></div><div>Anytime you're introducing new sounds to your students, these are a great way to streamline the process! </div><div><br /></div><div>This bundle includes 800 picture cards for each lesson included in the sequence from sets 1-3. Each card is marked by what sound they represent for easy organization. There is also a picture card key to show what sounds are targeted and to avoid confusion. </div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to print these on cardstock, laminate them, and store them in small photo boxes. These are quick and easy tool to use in your intervention groups in daily phonics practice lessons but are helpful for general classroom use too. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Phonics Fluency Strips </h2><div>Finally, let's chat about another one of my favorite tools for phonics lessons! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-for-Phonics-Fluency-Phonics-Practice-Word-Lists-K-2-2278029?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" target="_blank">These phonics fluency strips</a> help target specific sounds, provide fluency practice, and can quickly assess for progress. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Flash-Cards-for-Phonics-Fluency-Phonics-Practice-Word-Lists-K-2-2278029?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Phonics fluency strips like these will help your students learn targeted sounds and will help you quickly assess their progress." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgIGAs5BrXs8B_Tt9Rk0n7wz1qoJjQC1hmt9NlfbT14ieybWQPaOU2fxeGH9DyblKOCsqjLHz6MvYxU1I8hHRfbP-tEELb65pu4j5pkck5XLjWq1PTfPwppG8aNKCK3GzvzswzVjLDPf6tNnMDlGX1sD-qJXoM6alC1JP86R9EiBX_DzeY8QTsxUQdRFMt/w357-h357/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20(4).png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons Phonics Fluency Strips" width="357" /></a></div>They're especially helpful for checking in with newly learned phonics skills and applying previously learned skills during small groups. </div><div><br /></div><div>My favorite feature of these fluency strips though is how easy they are to use. Simply print and go, and students will be able to grab a list and start reading! </div><div><br /></div><div>This resource includes fluency strips for 42 different phonics sounds/rules. Each page has 4 identical lists that can quickly be cut apart and handed out to students. The phonics skill is listed at the top of the strip and then followed by 11 words for that sound. </div><div><br /></div><div>These are such great tools for small group intervention, can serve as an excellent small group warm up, and I also loved to tuck these into homework folders as well! They're a super simple way for teachers and parents to help children grow in reading fluency and practice a variety of sounds.</div><div> </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Using All of these Phonics Lessons Together </h2><div>If you asked me to pick a favorite from these activities, I really don't think I'd be able to so! In all honesty, I used all of these tools and activities on a regular basis in my classroom and with my intervention groups. Whether or not you use Orton Gillingham phonics lessons, these tools will have a big impact on how much progress your young readers make! </div><div><br /></div><div>Because of this, I created a bundle of all these resources. The bundle will help you add variety to your phonics lessons and ensure you're keeping these fun and engaging for your students. It includes all 5 of the resources discussed in this post, so you'll be able to help support your students all year long! </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Orton-Gillingham-Phonics-Intervention-Materials-Phonics-BUNDLE-8995795?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" target="_blank">Check out the bundle</a> to simplify your lesson planning, support your structured phonics lessons, and make learning to read FUN for your students! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Orton-Gillingham-Phonics-Intervention-Materials-Phonics-BUNDLE-8995795?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Orton Gillingham BUNDLE to use each of these exciting and fun activities in your classroom today!" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTUtsUVtXmf_ygVB9AzydqoVwsQnQbA8hgequhLrs_iulR466D1GzkvndHo1oI9e7exxBPmiUVsRd12BJOfKHd6k9H6SoPhgPQsm02Z3w4pNzO-PNNGP3KvkZasndQAZhOs7VUKgcPyWPCwJl6mY74U-aDI55rVkO_OABEk3wueKzmnGaEjl4ZA-_DNBFn/w320-h320/original-8995795-1.jpeg" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons BUNDLE" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>This post has everything you need to enrich your phonics lessons whether you use Orton Gillingham or not! Make sure to pin this post on Pinterest to keep these engaging ideas at your fingertips. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7Na7QlgyicQX5MEct0SQT3p4K5A1RwgDnxTCV3A3UtX4vavx6Jud0fa2aW0UAASUuLppb2za7s0mPycL0KcgKX9QYbmtjLx89Rp9sKlR4MP-G6H1llKB1CnVCbbMkvNeFkgY5XjC25ngWzFxJzsT7H0glksDP0EHRlVSd4XVY9DkUNUhzO4lo___PMBR/s1500/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun ways to help your students learn, practice, and master important phonics skills? These 5 activities are the perfect way to support your Orton Gillingham phonics lessons this year. Be sure to grab the Orton Gillingham bundle to start using these engaging activities in your classroom today! #tarynsuniquelearning #phonicsactivities #ortongillingham #ortongillinghamactivities" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7Na7QlgyicQX5MEct0SQT3p4K5A1RwgDnxTCV3A3UtX4vavx6Jud0fa2aW0UAASUuLppb2za7s0mPycL0KcgKX9QYbmtjLx89Rp9sKlR4MP-G6H1llKB1CnVCbbMkvNeFkgY5XjC25ngWzFxJzsT7H0glksDP0EHRlVSd4XVY9DkUNUhzO4lo___PMBR/w242-h364/5%20Ways%20to%20Support%20Your%20Orton%20Gillingham%20Phonics%20Lessons%20%20pin.png" title="5 Ways to Support Your Orton Gillingham Phonics Lessons" width="242" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-69545406344206609382023-07-12T06:58:00.000-07:002023-07-12T06:58:31.695-07:009 Ways to Boost Staff Morale During the New School Year<div>Fall is the busiest time of the year if you're a teacher or a school administrator! Since we all know our time is limited when August hits, I'm a big fan of prepping things ahead of time to use throughout the year. While you don't want to spend your whole summer preparing for the school year, there are a few great ways to prepare for those busy months and start the year with high staff morale right off the bat! Here are 9 simple ways to prep during the summer months and boost staff morale this fall! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNRMgMM7y7iHbc9jOKbX3rFq1XWIyrVEEuainNXxdZfMxsoHM5LVFwvxEx_YJoXQbUF8ZnHFF155jJPaOTOM4gdkiLNBoHSt4SPwoneUfyy2yK-GBarVT7PJSGW7bOXDmFXeRaSeKawtZS2qTP8k8nGc_8zXtF5tJAHfVsNJ8Og-hyyf5ydKyIBiFsfAn/s2240/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ready to have the best school year with your teachers yet? Use these 9 awesome ways to boost staff morale this fall to rock this school year." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNRMgMM7y7iHbc9jOKbX3rFq1XWIyrVEEuainNXxdZfMxsoHM5LVFwvxEx_YJoXQbUF8ZnHFF155jJPaOTOM4gdkiLNBoHSt4SPwoneUfyy2yK-GBarVT7PJSGW7bOXDmFXeRaSeKawtZS2qTP8k8nGc_8zXtF5tJAHfVsNJ8Og-hyyf5ydKyIBiFsfAn/w640-h360/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20header.png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Why Focus on Staff Morale?</h2><div>In the busiest time of the year, staff morale is something that can be easy to forget. There's an endless to-do list and limited time, so why should we spend our precious time on staff morale?! So glad you asked! </div><div><br /></div><div>First off, your staff members are in the busiest time of the year too! They also have an endless to-do list and the added pressure to getting everything ready, meeting students and parents, and pleasing you, the admin. Taking a couple of minutes to acknowledge what they are going through goes a long way!</div><div><br /></div><div>When I was the head of our school Sunshine Committee for many years, I was always looking for fun ways to engage our staff, bring people together, and share small gestures of kindness. Paying it forward with small acts of gratitude is the BEST way to set the tone for a great year! </div><div><br /></div><div>Whether you're a teacher looking to spread some cheer, a school administrator, or a PTO member, you'll love these simple ways to keep staff morale high. These ideas are inexpensive, simple to prep, and will help demonstrate thoughtfulness and kindness throughout your building to get the year started off right!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Stock the Fridge </h2><div>This is one of my favorite simple things to prep during the summer months that really makes a huge impact on staff morale! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Stock-the-Staff-Fridge-6785965?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use fun signs like these to let your teachers know there are awesome goodies waiting for them which will definitely help boost staff morale!" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt5jHDr5Ti6P8Zpjrey1eVUTDVa-K-mUXIqsYSlvMS49Xl6R38HdRrfLmh9ovQ3xPxmmfbjw46aZoJihj74qgnQTW_rrXg4gDaIyIdFBRI6avcLG2W-GGjS08f-abHnYgty_U2fhk-4R0_nDmOiFecTNUryYOMhOxP_JTxkRKUMobwSFdVbR2y8Sa8AeXb/w321-h321/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall.png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Fridge Signs" width="321" /></a></div>During the summer months, stock up on a variety of beverages and print off some of <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Stock-the-Staff-Fridge-6785965?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">these fun signs.</a> When you're ready to use this staff morale booster, fill your fridge and hang the signs. Post the signs in the staff lounge, in the office, and in other high-traffic areas around your building. </div><div><br /></div><div>These signs will alert staff that there are cold beverages provided for them in the staff lounge. I've found this simple act of kindness helps to re-energize staff and get them excited for the new year. </div><div><br /></div><div>A great time to do this is when the school opens up and staff are prepping before the kids are back. There's nothing better than grabbing an ice-cold, free drink after spending a day working in your classroom! </div><div><br /></div><div>You can also use these signs throughout the year for staff in-service days, special events, or simply to add some cheer to a regular week. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Prep Welcome Back Poems</h2><div>Next up, this is another super simple staff morale booster to prep this summer! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Welcome-Back-Poem-for-Staff-2561162?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Welcome back poems like these are a great way to boost staff morale by showing your staff how much you appreciate them." border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1600" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblVz84RMxe9yltPMvrF6wYEAaIDhbfzCcGffrYk6EAq-Rbx8ULJ2wWgyy3nF5FetLORC2mcsXfnlZIuLHiPnML_j8bo6nKG3TnSGdm9CnFMtp3DzmxRUo75gakz8vpM49n4IYcLrLwJ1S40Id7ZO_Rz4-iPhilG_tv7LsSG4WOui4dmMeGYreSJuORdth/w294-h368/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(8%20%C3%97%2010%20in).png" title="Welcome Back poem for staff morale" width="294" /></a></div><div>Just print <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Welcome-Back-Poem-for-Staff-2561162?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">this poem</a> off on some paper and fold the copies ahead of time. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great activity to do while you're watching a movie, or relaxing by the pool. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm a big fan of multitasking things like this to help make the most of your summer break while getting ready for fall! </div><div><br /></div><div>Store them away until the first week of school. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then, the night before the first day tuck these cute little poems into every staff member's mailbox as a way to welcome them back. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great way to kick off the year and only takes a few minutes to prepare!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Build Staff Morale Welcome Baskets</h2><div>This next idea is perfect for the first week of school, or while the staff is preparing over the summer. I liked to prep a few of these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Welcome-Baskets-3995895?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">Welcome Baskets</a> and place them in high-traffic areas in our building. The baskets were filled with essentials we all needed during the long hours we spent at school. Some of the things in the baskets include:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Welcome-Baskets-3995895?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Welcome baskets like these will help boost staff morale by showing your teachers how much you appreciate them right off the bat." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18ELM2juoJPHIm0wHD1wlH9-YNnqi5kqDnKc8iyfxiZDXM4JvWO3qNKDAMMkbzQB2eRuMx66B0pKTePFartPGVuSyIWU4DsEfCSKSr7_kHyc6qWIlyRBjkM4JV-y_npMW0vDfovNBYpADMy7xCa4_00LqnOITlcH5xbDys6z-lOZNLIluu8WxAl28Bxp9/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(2).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Welcome Baskets" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>soap </li><li>lint rollers</li><li>stain remover </li><li>static guard</li><li>hand sanitizer </li><li>dental floss </li><li>hand lotion</li><li>and more </li></ul><div>The ideas are literally endless! I liked to swing by the dollar store and find a variety of fun and inexpensive goodies to fill these baskets. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can shrink-wrap the baskets if desired, and add a gift tag. Then distribute them to teams, or place them in staff bathrooms and the staff lounge for everyone to share. This idea is really fun for new staff members too. Make new staff members their very own basket to welcome them to your school!</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Make a Staff Shout-Out Board </h2><div>One of the best ways to boost staff morale is by simply recognizing a job well done. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Shout-Out-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Morale-Board-4629228?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A staff shout-out board like these makes everyone feel special throughout the year and will help boost staff morale not only at the beginning of the year but throughout." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHvoIFqWoKUOSigGAh7Vgp3AvspUDbQrFwVUGapCaARs_bo8yMXxYK-S3oeUKO0ztrPKrInJdtMGWjwO11-la9m6ybkqVi5re9HQ44iYfW-g-up4CGtTc2OAGylzo_C1mg7SF9297Qqup8ToiUvEzzTdv3T4mr92CKlOJo1OnfVsH-7-YkfchUL2NgjrK/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(3).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Staff Shout out Board" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>Taking the time to show your appreciation for kind acts of service means so much to staff and teachers alike! My favorite method for getting this trend going is with a staff shout-out board. </div><div><br /></div><div>This idea encourages staff and teachers to find ways to thank and compliment each other regularly. </div><div><br /></div><div>To prep this one over the summer, all you need to do to print off a shout-out board from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Shout-Out-Staff-Appreciation-Staff-Morale-Board-4629228?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">this resource</a> and hang it in a central location. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you are able, it's best to enlarge the printable to poster size and place it in a frame. I liked to leave a stack of Post-its, and some colorful markers alongside it too. </div><div><br /></div><div>Add a few shout-outs yourself to get the process going, and watch the compliments pile up! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Create a Staff Sunshine Corner</h2><div>If you're making a staff shout-out board, I highly recommend creating a "Sunshine Corner" too! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Bulletin-Board-Letters-7419573?utm_source=Taryn%27s%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Create a sunshine corner like these for a fun and easy ongoing way to boost staff morale in your school this year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilokghV47nZsPFA__uWOob-jAWl91lfJ1EC9_bDzgcz0-ZC66aFMDJnS27jv-K6G9d3POse1XLPMkgKr7WalBAtnWeK56PyGboLErLJejv_HfwfKajseJ8Uc5sLtIRMnJNqrpwB4ZUwhQQEM3cbGKd7P9CiBHeD-8l4gu7P29hV44X9YHZN-8eQtRdy2V/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(4).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Sunshine Corner" width="320" /></a></div>This little area is a great place to hang your staff shout-out board, along with other fun announcements and information. </div><div><br /></div><div>To make a sunshine corner in your building, locate an empty wall in the staff lounge or office. Grab some cute bulletin board supplies and decorate to your liking. </div><div><br /></div><div>Add a fun heading that says "Sunshine Corner" with <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Bulletin-Board-Letters-7419573?utm_source=Taryn%27s%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">these letters</a> and gather any other important info to display. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the past, I've posted our district calendar, announcements, the shout-out board, and reminders for goodies available in the fridge. Staff will love checking the board for new announcements each week! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great spot to place a coffee cart, or any other special treats you have available for staff as well. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Make a Kindness Plate </h2><div><div>Another great morale booster to start on your campus is the Kindness Plate. It's an anonymous (or not anonymous) RAK (Random Act of Kindness) activity that goes on all year long! </div><div><br /></div><div>To get started all you need is one or more kindness plates. You can make one yourself at a paint-your-own pottery store or create one through a service like Shutterfly. You can even grab a special plate from a local thrift store and tag it as the Kindness Plate. The plate is really just the starting place for this kindness activity. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDnCHjDzq4V1f0MuqFiavuQ3E34-oeqwgGxv9vPq4ASRYIGsaj9nfZnqRrjMzT4TH2W56BpyoAmoNJQQtTfJg-e8PYItEOx1T3xGOEH8Ks9YSTChzsuB79ZFLnz7w8T5fwkYQgN0CsRtRFWYzDOa0tOZqNXCdUKypX-X6FFow9Hz3J6vzBTrVtl0ZVFFn/s1080/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(6).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A kindness plate like this is the perfect way to show your staff how much you appreciate them with a special treat." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDnCHjDzq4V1f0MuqFiavuQ3E34-oeqwgGxv9vPq4ASRYIGsaj9nfZnqRrjMzT4TH2W56BpyoAmoNJQQtTfJg-e8PYItEOx1T3xGOEH8Ks9YSTChzsuB79ZFLnz7w8T5fwkYQgN0CsRtRFWYzDOa0tOZqNXCdUKypX-X6FFow9Hz3J6vzBTrVtl0ZVFFn/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(6).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Kindness Plate" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>Here's the idea: the Kindness Plate gets filled with a special treat, lunch, office supplies, or anything really. Then it gets left for a teacher or staff member. That person gets to enjoy everything on the plate. Then it is their turn to fill the Kindness Plate and share it with someone else. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's a great way to encourage a fellow staff member, say thank you to someone who went above and beyond, or just spread some kindness. You can start the "train" of kindness yourself or have them available for staff to grab when they want to use one.</div><div><br /></div><div>On my campus, we had 5 Kindness Plates that stayed in rotation all year long. Our general rule of thumb was that once received, the kindness plate would be filled and passed on within a week. It was always an uplifting and encouraging surprise to find the Kindness Plate on your desk or in your mailbox.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you are looking for an easy way to spread kindness and encouragement on your campus, this is a great one.</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Plan a Teacher Yard Sale </h2><div>Looking for a way to help teachers prepare for the school year and repurpose items around the school?</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Teacher-Garage-Sale--9753520?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Planning a teacher yard sale is a great way to get your teachers together and boost staff morale at the beginning of the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrq5yt92XrgWns9Zs1IroIXjQ5ULPnPWltwtB7eq5qMULMG0jnSSb5ZsqMV7KX3ChlPaSe__gRGShTJ0EKPZGpZR426GiMBcfTiDtXHdWFjvsT8jd3WVMdk_afEgtodNZiOHKnvBkBb8-FBVPT-HJmBcyVyTqzAe8iaVYAmU8noDARZRDWYDVtNC-yzYpX/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(5).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Teacher Yard Sale" width="320" /></a></div>Consider planning a teacher yard sale prior to the first week of school. </div><div><br /></div><div>In this event, teachers will donate unused items from their own classrooms to share with others. </div><div><br /></div><div>If they find they have a large stock of things that aren't needed, this is the perfect opportunity to clean them out! </div><div><br /></div><div>The old saying, "One person's trash is another person's treasure" applies here and is so true! This event is both fun and social for staff, while also helping boost staff morale and find some fun items to use in the classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Teacher-Garage-Sale--9753520?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">This resource</a> has everything you need to make planning your yard sale simple. Included you'll find advertisement signs, sign-up sheets, step-by-step directions, and more!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Book a Coffee Truck </h2><div>Everyone loves coffee, right?! This couldn't be more true at the beginning of the school year! As a fun welcome-back activity, I liked to book a traveling coffee truck to visit the school. This one will require some funding, but planning ahead during the summer usually makes it more feasible! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrxwt_znrpXor7VO8-G_NRpVlb0Ze7xnk4IZxeQmGMy-FVlD7irrWDXVUXXtBO_60XpIkuWVm_Ycg8aDgSwSDplg8qkET0lZjwnvVYMjt2AmeBTuv4DOeIp4gr-GHxWbl7qY_8CbdlrMn7zbCa3Fm3TiaX7M-M5f13np0vOu5I93jXDZeOzdS34F0mRTL/s1080/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(7).png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Show your teachers and staff how much you appreciate them with a super special coffee truck." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrxwt_znrpXor7VO8-G_NRpVlb0Ze7xnk4IZxeQmGMy-FVlD7irrWDXVUXXtBO_60XpIkuWVm_Ycg8aDgSwSDplg8qkET0lZjwnvVYMjt2AmeBTuv4DOeIp4gr-GHxWbl7qY_8CbdlrMn7zbCa3Fm3TiaX7M-M5f13np0vOu5I93jXDZeOzdS34F0mRTL/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(7).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Coffee Truck" width="320" /></a></div><div>Look in your local area to find a truck that's willing to visit your school. Your administration or PTO can pre-pay for each teacher and staff member to be able to get a beverage of their choosing. Our staff purchased their own drinks. The opportunity to get coffee at school was a treat in itself. </div><div><br /></div><div>You may need to arrange for coverage as staff members go get their coffee treat, or send the menu out ahead of time and have volunteers bring orders to each person that morning. </div><div><br /></div><div>Alternatively, the truck can arrive at a designated time before the first bell rings. </div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to arrange this event during week two of back to school. The first week is chaotic, and everyone is just trying to find a groove. </div><div><br /></div><div>The second week is a great time to show staff they are appreciated after the dust settles a bit. </div><div><br /></div><div>No matter how you structure it, this one will be a BIG hit, and make all of your staff members feel appreciated as they fall back into the school routine! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">9. Grab Some Chalk Markers </h2><div>Last, but not least - this is a SUPER simple tip that makes a big impact. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3PVzeJJ" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Uses chalk markers like these to leave special notes for your staff all around the school which will help boost staff morale throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9bydxEnm65lXgrB6cSw6Z4iMfitiTPGal3uJx95EmLqgFOWtKcW_cX-1M7KX_V36kAQ6UZ0q8p-ymjE9lSPF5Y5ITLAvpIWVJOCp0rUEuM7MUxIuDyFXNQvlV8OdYNsmHz6AAQTjOOzsLJVTV90PA3B54J0_EKI2Tk6w9h0RNT0XUNdKR9mJ0CywqVrf/w320-h320/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20(8).png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Chalk Markers" width="320" /></a></div>Over the summer, keep your eyes out for some chalk markers. Stock up on these or <a href="https://amzn.to/3PVzeJJ" target="_blank">grab them on Amazon.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>At the beginning of the school year, spend some time leaving messages for staff on bathroom mirrors, or windows in the staff areas. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can leave encouraging notes, jokes, or other positive messages. </div><div><br /></div><div>Set a note in your calendar to swap these out from time to time to keep it interesting and fun. You can also make the markers available for others to join in the fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a simple way to make your staff members smile and start the year off with great staff morale!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Even More Staff Morale Resources</h2><div>Are you feeling energized and excited to try some of these staff morale-boosting activities this year? I sure hope so! Taking some time to prep a few of these over the summer will have a big impact come fall! If you LOVE these ideas and are looking for even more, be sure to check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Appreciation-Games-and-Activities-to-Boost-Morale-SUPER-BUNDLE-7786763?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" target="_blank">Staff Morale SUPER Bundle!</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Appreciation-Games-and-Activities-to-Boost-Morale-SUPER-BUNDLE-7786763?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=9%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Morale%20High%20This%20Fall" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Super Staff Morale Booster Bundle for tons of amazing ways to boost staff morale this fall." border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RUlh6lVhp_e7z4SG9_aEHU03C6Ln1imzBjnyyrpPSaAjROAwmuXa2PHeq_RfWdAfH-o-lWywxoWLzTaddHad3ncO8o5rOY961wCTbxOhqCuTVAnOkwf1bzAa_3FcyJF6okC0Ux_Kp0-abbUAb0HYudRvCKjLeZKj6xhPwbZXeZQC5m_k4S5LA6JfJfJB/w320-h320/original-7786763-1.jpeg" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall Super Bundle" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The bundle includes 26 resources to help encourage, motivate, and thank staff all year long. You'll find all of the ideas included in this post and more to help inspire you and prepare for a great year. Using these activities and resources is a great way to keep staff morale high all year long!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>This post is filled with fun ideas that make boosting staff morale easy! Pin this post on Pinterest to save these ideas and come back to them when you're in need of inspiration. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTg9abKDzxuumhr-iz3Yrgg0T9vvVhEXZN-JKNX9huuNWUxROg26cEY845QtxhEI3urm5OTkLgHJMSsM_MvHhknNnUacDqDP_qIk6U4KKuLjZ7X6165_6KIAiN1d3Ga_tujHqbIUot1GxcpVmYAKiE1mGcsDOwrYbSqGjH-CMzZlmj02XJxNbjsIisS5mK/s1500/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Looking for fun ways to show your teachers and staff how much you appreciate them this year? Use these ideas to boost staff morale this fall and throughout the entire school year to show your staff just how much you appreciate everything they do to make your school the amazing place it is. #tarynsuniquelearning #waystobooststaffmorale #teacherappreciation" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTg9abKDzxuumhr-iz3Yrgg0T9vvVhEXZN-JKNX9huuNWUxROg26cEY845QtxhEI3urm5OTkLgHJMSsM_MvHhknNnUacDqDP_qIk6U4KKuLjZ7X6165_6KIAiN1d3Ga_tujHqbIUot1GxcpVmYAKiE1mGcsDOwrYbSqGjH-CMzZlmj02XJxNbjsIisS5mK/w252-h379/9%20Ways%20to%20Boost%20Staff%20Morale%20This%20Fall%20pin.png" title="9 Ways to Boost Staff Morale This Fall" width="252" /></a></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-30287454262674049642023-06-26T08:42:00.000-07:002023-06-26T08:42:12.023-07:0010 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds<div>Teaching letters is a big task in the primary classroom. This process often starts as early as the preschool years and continues on through kindergarten and first grade to ensure that children have a solid understanding. Since this is something you'll likely be spending a lot of time on, why not make it extra fun? Today I'm doing exactly that! Come along as I share 10 fun ways to engage your students while practicing letter identification and sounds. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvI_h6SeuV_0uEIgVG--OFZfBVZlbaY21AlQNJb2Sb1aqA1PzOyvrVavJGnnnCCiuFdVOcwpa6m42CI17mAdtYrSAlIDBgID6_3wr0Yfg-pMs2kdeWq0SZDwcPN_KCR8T06UxmqzBinvf_nknjyY6i7kImJbFaC_a8b4ZhylvWub6d7l8_9nb3uGybTyNj/s2240/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20Header.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Getting your students excited about practicing letter identification and sounds is fun and easy with these engaging activities they are sure to love." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvI_h6SeuV_0uEIgVG--OFZfBVZlbaY21AlQNJb2Sb1aqA1PzOyvrVavJGnnnCCiuFdVOcwpa6m42CI17mAdtYrSAlIDBgID6_3wr0Yfg-pMs2kdeWq0SZDwcPN_KCR8T06UxmqzBinvf_nknjyY6i7kImJbFaC_a8b4ZhylvWub6d7l8_9nb3uGybTyNj/w640-h360/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20Header.png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Find It Jars </h2><div>Everyone likes to play "I Spy," right? This first activity is focused on finding letters and identifying them with a letter sorting mat and Find it Jars. As a warm-up activity, I like to start with the letter sorting mats. Provide students with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/700PCS-Letter-Jewelry-Necklace-Bracelet/dp/B07J4FK8W8/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=RN2KNAWNM5D3&keywords=alphabet+lacing+beads&qid=1687175808&sprefix=alphabet+lacing+beads%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">letter beads,</a> and allow them to sort them out onto their mats, putting each bead in the correct spot. This activity also helps focus specifically on the letters in their name. There's a spot on the mat where kiddos can collect extra letters that are in their own name as they sort. </div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/700PCS-Letter-Jewelry-Necklace-Bracelet/dp/B07J4FK8W8/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=RN2KNAWNM5D3&keywords=alphabet+lacing+beads&qid=1687175808&sprefix=alphabet+lacing+beads%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Letter beads like these are a great way to get some hands on fine motor skills practice while your students are learning to identify letter names and sounds." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeiltLqwu-5iBPf0xmgNl89OJrFZ80hyvDx5BRPk_onuKAbOKYbTLCPwYe-qedi8jZkVZ73a0lgVz2Z9oBOe9qJItb22obeq_V5LIHrBXZZKaPuTcdxyehB5wQ7yHGwhEc4cFQ7Oecft6CI3kSom950qCLnSKPgx08YVsFlPxFeSdGH4sQIUMj9Tiqxfw/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds.png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Letter Beads" width="320" /></a></div></blockquote><div>After this, take this letter identification activity up a notch and have students use <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Phonics-Craft-Letter-ID-and-Beginning-Letter-Sounds-Find-It-Jars-4417740?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">"Find It Jars"</a> to practice recognizing letters. The jars are filled with a mix of rainbow sprinkles and tiny letter beads. Children will draw a card, identify the letter on the card, and then turn the jar over to find that bead. This activity is great for small groups and centers. You can pre-make the jars and have children take turns with them, or make this into a craft activity and allow each child to make their own jar. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is also a fun activity to use as a whole group game. Have your kiddos gather in a circle, and choose 1 child to start with the jar. Draw a card, hold it up, and have the child identify it and find that letter in the jar. After they have finished, they pass the jar on to the person sitting next to them and repeat the process. This activity is anything but ordinary and will help get your kids excited about letter identification! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Magnetic Letters </h2><div>Next up, let's talk about good ol' magnet letters. If you teach young students, you likely already know <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Educational-Insights-AlphaMagnets-Color-Coded-Lowercase/dp/B0006MUBEM/ref=sr_1_17?crid=1LPIJYUDO9XFV&keywords=magnetic+letters&qid=1687175472&s=toys-and-games&sprefix=magnetic+letter%2Ctoys-and-games%2C255&sr=1-17" target="_blank">these are a classroom must-have!</a> There are so many fun things you can do with magnet letters. Plus, they make a perfect "instant" center activity. Some of the ways we used them over the years include:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Educational-Insights-AlphaMagnets-Color-Coded-Lowercase/dp/B0006MUBEM/ref=sr_1_17?crid=1LPIJYUDO9XFV&keywords=magnetic+letters&qid=1687175472&s=toys-and-games&sprefix=magnetic+letter%2Ctoys-and-games%2C255&sr=1-17" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="These easy to find magnetic letters can be used to spell words, identify letters, and much more." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdmATaQnXD24XJe6VqeNPCRwRQkPCSGWwPPcclC3-WS-u_u_9d4ug6q5erbyAp-eMhMrtt7zikwMOQGRt6ZSRF83CXigyA66JjUGNY2eWJRHGAoikIza69bNden0r2GRdAwtow3BV7_nJjFEVFvj3uNkl191296i7vne0StjP4oPn-9DvX5wSnu7h77a9/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(1).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Magnetic Letters" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Spelling names of friends </b>- To do this activity, pair up students and provide them with a tub of magnet letters and some cookie sheets. Have kiddos take turns choosing a friend and spelling their name out on the cookie sheet with the magnet letters. Having all student names listed somewhere for this activity or written on the board is helpful. </li><li><b>Beginning sound game</b> - This one is great for small groups. To play, name something in the classroom, such as "desk," "light," or "pencil." Students will quickly find the letter that goes with that beginning sound and lay it in front of them. Repeat, or have students take turns calling out an item. </li><li><b>Sensory bin</b> - This is always a student favorite! To play this game, toss some magnet letters into a sensory bin filled with rice or dried beans. Provide students with magnet wands like these and have them "fish" for letters. When a letter sticks to their wand, they remove it and say the name of the letter and the sound.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>These are just a few of the fun ways to use magnet letters for learning letter sounds and identification. Make sure to keep these on hand for quick and easy center games your students will love.</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Hole Punch Letter Identification </h2><div><br /></div><div>Young students work best when given many opportunities for hands-on learning. I loved incorporating fun manipulatives and other classroom tools in our lessons as often as I could to help keep kiddos engaged and excited about learning! One of my favorites for targeting both letter identification and letter sounds are <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Recognition-Letter-Sounds-Back-to-School-Alphabet-Fine-Motor-3175799?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">these Hole Punch Mats.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Recognition-Letter-Sounds-Back-to-School-Alphabet-Fine-Motor-3175799?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A simple hole punch turns this letter identification activity into a fun one your students can work on individually or in centers." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VgRsTgSdmWV2j6kYWxrTpI69IBLI0SpY-kqhXFYpLAdTdhTUVG17eqKtC-9piaCBhsm_BOqQjSGU0QO2_pKaVT5Z28UCHiAeNfHai5WzfN9FEgl89_U4cSmsltjrrzTqscWGeXiupumIrvvf1gmyo_ZPR1FzTGm49A9qn2era6IvOqJK5MY-KpRUmvfn/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(2).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Hole Punch Letter identification" width="320" /></a></div><div>This fun activity has students draw a card, name the letter on the card and then find it on their mat. Then, they use the hole punch to mark it on their mat. There are card options for uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and picture cards to allow for differentiation. You use this game multiple times by having students match their cards in a variety of ways, such as:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Uppercase to Uppercase</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Lowercase to Lowercase</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Cross Case</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Beginning Sound</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Letters in Sequence</li><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat; border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Letters Out of Sequence</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>This activity is great for little learners that are working on hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills too! Manipulating the hole punch is such a great way to strengthen those hand muscles and lock in student focus. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Rubber-Band Geo Boards</h2><div>These are another must-have, in my opinion, for a simple center option that everyone loves. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Double-Sided-Geoboard-Mathematical-Manipulative-Educational/dp/B08J7LWDTR/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?crid=1SPILIGLZB95L&keywords=rubber+band+geo+boards&qid=1687175557&s=toys-and-games&sprefix=rubber+band+geo+board%2Ctoys-and-games%2C157&sr=1-3-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Put your class set of geo boards to use during literacy time and have students practice identifying letters as they make them with rubber bands." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK0P-WTrRKvsl9seVT5TWWxK8oFjh5N11VmBlBSTnpNKx-j49hmsuXZHgBTmBtD4SvLX0lhZ2yopVUC3s6JbXPKaSCij2SQOqub8U-3GOXc8xHkEhh8doSfyFkUfLwQatBI6eD95WJdsHKBbw8m4-gLjoy8Rro3kn4AMgzsRuQkZkYaJurvOD_wlZY_Eb_/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(3).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Geo Boards" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Double-Sided-Geoboard-Mathematical-Manipulative-Educational/dp/B08J7LWDTR/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?crid=1SPILIGLZB95L&keywords=rubber+band+geo+boards&qid=1687175557&s=toys-and-games&sprefix=rubber+band+geo+board%2Ctoys-and-games%2C157&sr=1-3-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">Geoboards</a> are great for working on fine motor skills while practicing letter identification. My favorite way to use these is in small groups. </div><div><br /></div><div>I give every kiddo a board and some rubber bands. Then I'll say something like, "I'm thinking of a letter that makes the /s/ sound." </div><div><br /></div><div>The children call out the letter and then use the rubberbands to make it on the board. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can also say things like, "Make the letter that the word 'dog' begins with."</div><div><br /></div><div>Either option is a fun way to get the wheels turning in those little minds in a fun way! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Letter Poems </h2><div>Do you have auditory learners in your classroom? We all know that every child is unique, and different teaching methods work better for some than others. Because of this, I always loved to have a variety of activities that support visual learners, hands-on learners, and auditory learners. One of my favorite ways to master letter identification through auditory lessons is with letter poems. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Alphabet-Posters-Alphabet-Poems-Alphabet-Formation-Writing-Practice-7936929?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Letter poems like these help students remember letter names and sounds." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_1z8HUQD44mzpKKVB3llNZeLHOT0LNV3t7i-1TSUuLFT7S0mR3aaX41DXRHIO-6it35qPCncc5HIXyZYXxdUwI-IKgKmpjsqGC62uChvelzq0uFu7Mc-AfZTwHDT8fZB9Dx0Ar13FPN3aJJXHw3JrIMfIwGBnMq8b_ASaBfqNMefJIcxZr0-2c90UFkVv/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(4).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Letter Poems" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Young students are often pretty excited about songs, poems, chants, and rhymes. Use this to your advantage to help them remember their letters! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Alphabet-Posters-Alphabet-Poems-Alphabet-Formation-Writing-Practice-7936929?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">These catchy letter poems</a> help prompt children on what capital letters look like and how to write them. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you introduce these to your students, they'll be repeating these poems to themselves as they write their letters. <i>"Slant to the left and to the right...hooray! A line in between, and you write the letter A!"</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>These<i> </i>letter poems come in 2 sizes. The larger version is perfect to display as anchor chart posters around the room or laminate and bind them together as a book. The smaller version is great to give out to students as a reminder for each letter. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Letter Identification Sensory Bins </h2><div>Do you use sensory bins in your classroom? If not, you're missing out on a valuable opportunity to master letter identification in a fun way! Sensory bins get a bad rap for being large and making a mess, but when done right, they're such a great way to mix things up in the classroom. </div><div><br /></div><div>I liked to use a small bin or wash tub to create a portable sensory bucket that can be used all year long. You can fill the bin with anything you'd like, but keep in mind how you'll want the kiddos to use it. If you plan to make this an unsupervised center activity, go for something low-mess like shredded paper or Easter grass. Make it festive by swapping out the paper shreds to match the current season or upcoming holiday. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sensory-Bin-September-Letters-and-Letter-Sounds-Back-to-School-Activities-6950671?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Letter sensory bins like these are perfect for all sorts of fun activities like letter searches and center activities." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJW3r5GJKjPLQ7At425F0nKw5ujzcHSW_En6nph3CY6wlE7tvvNl1w2Gdo2FN7JNfailpk-rz4aF5MHQidEKnxm-SD2MsoReOdXFU_LMz5UCzp4WA34qmzWPfgKG0HhfO98FNo3MufKrX3FiapmUPnbgYY3pjMTdkOa-ZWJZgRLWK1bPsQrZEVt6uJgue/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(5).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Sensory Bins" width="320" /></a></div><div>Dried beans, dried rice, popcorn kernels, or Styrofoam peanuts are all great options too! If you go this route, I recommend putting a tray under your sensory bin to easily catch spills. Always be sure to have a brief rundown of the rules before letting kiddos use the new sensory bin too! </div><div><br /></div><div>Once you've got your bin all set up, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sensory-Bin-September-Letters-and-Letter-Sounds-Back-to-School-Activities-6950671?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">add letter cards like these.</a> This resource includes card options to target uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and beginning sounds. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can choose what works best for your students or differentiate to meet varied needs. To use this activity, kiddos will choose a card from the sensory bin and say it aloud. Next, they find it on their recording sheet and trace the letter. </div><div><br /></div><div>This resource also includes spinners to add another layer of fun. To incorporate these, students will spin, identify the letter they land on, and then find it in their sensory bin. This activity is perfect for center time and will be something students look forward to participating in. </div><div><br /></div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">7. Sand Trays </h2>Sand trays are one of my favorite activities for practicing letter identification and formation. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/CuteyCo-Crafty-Sand-Kids-Vibrant/dp/B07JYLQXC3/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=ROCSWW76FWRV&keywords=colored+art+sand&qid=1687176554&sprefix=colored+art+san%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Sand trays are a great kinesthetic way for students to practice identifying letter names and sounds." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUsWI4J6qYwDC0o9UnYHnt--Qy3A1VF2eu3F2ZuMK48eWR-RclqE_nCKucWqpaO9K1BkCHxuERS2jUsjZLQIqZfBk_B431Qr2l1NpdL2T647rUyAaEKY8K1ACZd_tCRsxTG0N7PQ1-DuSxBpXevV-yFRej0hrdjRMucTFiCwcmiggTKVymo819iNd3K1z/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(6).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Sand Trays" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>To make these for your students, grab some <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Activity-Colorful-Painting-Montessori-13-4x10-2x1-4/dp/B0BX2R6KVJ/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=NC1R48SFYX46&keywords=plastic+sand+tray&qid=1687176510&sprefix=plastic+sand+tray%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">simple plastic trays</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/CuteyCo-Crafty-Sand-Kids-Vibrant/dp/B07JYLQXC3/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=ROCSWW76FWRV&keywords=colored+art+sand&qid=1687176554&sprefix=colored+art+san%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">colored sand.</a> For this activity, I liked to provide students with a tray filled with sand and a stack of letter flashcards. </div><div><br /></div><div>Students will draw a card, say the name of the letter, and then write it in the sand using their fingers. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can also use cards with beginning sounds as well if you'd like to target that skill. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once children have used this activity a few times, it makes a great center activity. It's also a fun option to use in small group interventions instead of pencils and paper. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">8. Pop It Letter Activities </h2><div>Pop-Its are a sensory toy that makes practicing letter identification and letter sounds more fun for children. Grab a <a href="https://amzn.to/46hIoWF" target="_blank">Pop-It Fidget Toy</a> with the alphabet on it, and use it <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pop-It-Activities-Letters-and-Letter-Sounds-6781227?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">alongside these activities</a> for instant engagement. To play, students will choose a card and complete the task. There is a variety of different games included to work on different skills:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pop-It-Activities-Letters-and-Letter-Sounds-6781227?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Pop It letter activities like these make practicing letter identification and sounds feel more like a game than learning." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg31sD1xBtCQ4rwtyGHEjMU_JSKxciPM3RrgD4U6bDeUG6rWJ6OohE9wjp-y4YXk2wWsp_MCinb2hGIBe3vaipgtlGP0iJbeePYHaS97nKFgynXrQofvC1AD4aKCIfbw1r4TFsXPIsoSbxVbi4BcEkfmr8j7mHlCoKtPL-OpkjaaQccicdgNEs_A4MLjVzu/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(7).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Pop It" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Match capital letters to the capital letters on the Pop-It Toy.</li><li>Match lowercase letters to the lowercase letters on the Pop-It Toy. </li><li>Match beginning sounds to the corresponding letters on the Pop-It Toy.</li><li>Find the Missing Letter in a sequence of 3. </li></ul><div>This activity is perfect for centers, independent learning stations, and fast finishers. Children will have so much fun "popping the bubbles" on the fidget toy. They won't even realize how much they are working on letter identification and letter sounds!</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">9. Wooden Letter Beads</h2><div>This activity is one that you can easily make and can be used in a variety of ways. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/LMC-Products-Toddlers-Preschool-stringing/dp/B07WXK8NWP/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3VFW10QTXFIOX&keywords=large+wooden+bead+toy&qid=1687175778&sprefix=large+wooden+bead+toy%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use wooden letter beads like these to ask students to spell out words and identify several different letter names and sounds in a hands on way they will love." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCvhzYw7DrPKvmqEClhlo2I6A3vVU3Kmq2EAoNyUr5wHexluc8LE-2ViCgWMozx_nh09vAMcpuiSj6oTuHCJdnutmrW_9mXD58TiW3Qlqm4TMWqaZpW_DNXYoevW311dfIxndxRXuzWlmjl5EEuD1AcSayU_FoXSHtrr6tW-Qc6o3rIY3MJbjnWYSaR8-T/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(8).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Wooden Beads" width="320" /></a></div>First off, grab some plain <a href="https://www.amazon.com/LMC-Products-Toddlers-Preschool-stringing/dp/B07WXK8NWP/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3VFW10QTXFIOX&keywords=large+wooden+bead+toy&qid=1687175778&sprefix=large+wooden+bead+toy%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">wooden beads like these</a> and use a permanent marker to write letters of the alphabet on them.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-LER6402-Lowercase-Letters/dp/B000MWRM8Y/ref=sr_1_7?crid=RN2KNAWNM5D3&keywords=alphabet+lacing+beads&qid=1687176068&sprefix=alphabet+lacing+beads%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-7" target="_blank">These letter beads</a> are another fun variation as well. I liked to have a set with uppercase letters and one with lowercase letters to differentiate this activity among my group. </div><div><br /></div><div>To use this activity, have students string letter beads in ABC order on a piece of lacing cord. </div><div><br /></div><div>After they have the whole alphabet, they can write the letters on a piece of paper to extend the activity further. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great center activity or independent learning station that encourages hands-on learning. </div><div><br /></div><div>Alternatively, you can also have students work on spelling words and naming each letter as they go. For this option, have them sit near a word wall or provide them with a stack of flashcards. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">10. Letter Fluency Game</h2><div>Last but certainly not least, I have one more fun activity for you to try! <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Fluency-Letter-Sound-Fluency-September-Back-to-School-Literacy-Centers-6365845?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">This letter fluency game</a> is focused on quickly identifying and naming letters to promote overall fluency. This game is also a low-prep, print-and-play option to help save you time when preparing your literacy activities. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Fluency-Letter-Sound-Fluency-September-Back-to-School-Literacy-Centers-6365845?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Help your students learn letter identification and sounds in a game like way with a partner or small group." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMqgDRg2-2A9Zyy_SnAUNhdZteZ_T-Gcti67vyD2d4hFgbQOrgUU5riyDmOjZa1hZXNaQCgnz-UeCOEiyRFraUp6Djqz5MII1g7kgr3idCOtnpeeEvpCb0vIGCUePNtEruWW8OzoGoTpnLur-0mmCBnxqiBdy6CwY8EpCtRBFCJhoMY7OvBkowVkIyv4At/w320-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20(9).png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds Letter Fluency Game" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>To play, students will spin the spinner and then find that picture on their card. Then, they point to each letter and say it aloud, moving from left to right. You can also have students say the letter name and the letter sound before moving to the next one if you'd like to focus on both skills during this activity. </div><div><br /></div><div>I always loved to use this game during small groups and intervention lessons. It's also a fun pattern game too! Simply have kiddos take turns spinning until all of the letter boxes have been read aloud. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">BONUS Activity: Name Spinners!</h2><div>I know I said there would be ten activities in this post, but I have one more bonus activity that I know your students will love! Aside from helping your students with letter recognition and sounds, these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Name-Practice-Spinners-Name-Activity-Letter-Identification-9673640?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">Name Spinners</a> will help target the letters specifically in their names. Starting with letters that the student has a connection to is the perfect place to begin teaching letter identification and sounds.</div><div><br /></div><div>This resource comes with editable pages that allow you to easily add student names. Simply type in each student's name and the individual letters and spinners will automatically be generated for each child. Once the spinners are ready, add a spinner or use a pencil and paper clip to spin for letters. Children will say the letter they land on, as well as the sound it makes in their name. Check out this video to see just how quick and easy they are to create and use.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx0lEzTCcRecz_BmcBR5fzkUlUg1vnV_yZPiC3jlRVR6j7s38Zawo1-2wYJpjVf6VHQGaQBRMj-eAIVw7Rv7Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>This simple activity is a great way to get plenty of practice with the meaningful letters to each child- the letters in their own name! Use this activity during intervention groups, morning work, as a warm-up activity, or send them home to be used with parents. No matter how you choose to use them, they're sure to be a hit! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Even More Letter Games </h2><div>Hopefully, you found something inspiring here to try. The big takeaway when it comes to learning letter identification and letter sounds is to think outside of the box! Fun tools and manipulatives like beads, magnetic letters, sensory bins, and spinners help make any letter identification game more fun and engaging for students. Using a variety of these items helps to keep a task that you work on frequently feeling fresh and exciting every time!</div></div><div><br /></div><div>If you're looking for more ways to level up your letter games, be sure to check out all of the fun and engaging <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning/Search:letter?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds" target="_blank">letter resources in my shop.</a> You'll find games, sensory bins, task cards, riddles, and more to help your students master letter identification and letter sounds in a fun way! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>This post is filled with tons of great tips to encourage letter identification in a fun way. Pin this post on Pinterest so you can come back to it when you need inspiration! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Gp--FEcK9TwtyIU0tK4aYtHLKUJ6yjFCYPEc4zSR5saAhsZPlnlJ2co9LWYd9zhKsp0om5_CztVg_52Fgu21r6Pi7fVgi9DpKWrnYoqWWf48RhRsrjA49xAcGQewS5CW4g3g5GcIqRAqR8Qap-95tcLXkrgveoZv1HmQB1lq2BXBg-bsQAMBv3Ufajlh/s1500/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20Pin.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use these letter fluency and letter identification activities in your classroom this year for exciting literacy activities they will love. From magnetic letters to sensory bins, these activities will keep your students excited about learning letter names and sounds with hands on engaging activities you can do in centers, as independent practice, or even as a whole group activity. #tarynsuniquelearning #letteridentification #lettersounds #practicingletteridentificationandsounds" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Gp--FEcK9TwtyIU0tK4aYtHLKUJ6yjFCYPEc4zSR5saAhsZPlnlJ2co9LWYd9zhKsp0om5_CztVg_52Fgu21r6Pi7fVgi9DpKWrnYoqWWf48RhRsrjA49xAcGQewS5CW4g3g5GcIqRAqR8Qap-95tcLXkrgveoZv1HmQB1lq2BXBg-bsQAMBv3Ufajlh/w213-h320/10%20Fun%20and%20Engaging%20Activities%20to%20Practice%20Letter%20Identification%20and%20Sounds%20Pin.png" title="10 Fun and Engaging Activities to Practice Letter Identification and Sounds" width="213" /></a></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-80573065375273308692023-06-08T10:43:00.028-07:002023-06-08T14:44:36.911-07:006 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging<div>As an administrator, you know that teaching and working in a school is more difficult now than ever. Staff morale plays a huge role in a healthy, thriving school. What's an administrator to do? Focus on those staff meetings! Engaging and lively staff meetings are one of the best ways to focus on boosting staff morale. If you're an administrator looking for ways to make your meetings more fun, I've got tons of great resources for you. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9XXPPU2YjLnsuamZXarYMHhGmQuDffMBYZoh3EpgXdcIiwiYiKFG34IDtpVn5nCBmXFnoJ_zLpkZ8l7kYepqQ6u1GY8Bkt733_0ZTZhtjH6YRpnOtHv0iT2icXhZIQvJ_nyfTj7K3H362mjqUcqvZmcEwTkOcs5HT-b2aLLCoDIhCNPzBmQZEaxh6g/s2240/Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Header%20Templates.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Need help making the most of your staff meetings this year? Here are 6 ways to make staff meetings lively and engaging that everyone will love!" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="2240" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9XXPPU2YjLnsuamZXarYMHhGmQuDffMBYZoh3EpgXdcIiwiYiKFG34IDtpVn5nCBmXFnoJ_zLpkZ8l7kYepqQ6u1GY8Bkt733_0ZTZhtjH6YRpnOtHv0iT2icXhZIQvJ_nyfTj7K3H362mjqUcqvZmcEwTkOcs5HT-b2aLLCoDIhCNPzBmQZEaxh6g/w640-h360/Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Header%20Templates.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Today we're talking all about how to help your teachers and staff actually look forward to faculty meetings, rather than dread them. Let's dive into some fresh ideas to boost staff morale and help your entire staff feel appreciated! Everyone from the office staff to classroom teachers, and counselors to custodial staff will all benefit from the activities and ideas. </div><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">First Up, Get to Know Your Team </h2><div>Every school is different. As an administrator, creating a positive and engaged working environment is a big part of the job. It's important to tune into what makes our team unique, and how you can best support them. To do that, you must get to know them. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrnLdS-M9QeHAr_jpGEjZ_M4BdLkxi3ZPcRwKZraymas2h4UoWddfCQERjbfkQdb3a0yMcq2oK2XwO5m8OGrv0DJQ8ZaMNmr6V5ZsLOKHnQgjbtpgsVD806oqQJ1vSHzUAv-hI227XwdnfO8yGaDKysut8wg4LkXcahoORLRuLenQ7DSRb8gmRV98zw/s1080/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Getting to know your team is a very important step if you want to make the most out of your staff meetings this year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrnLdS-M9QeHAr_jpGEjZ_M4BdLkxi3ZPcRwKZraymas2h4UoWddfCQERjbfkQdb3a0yMcq2oK2XwO5m8OGrv0DJQ8ZaMNmr6V5ZsLOKHnQgjbtpgsVD806oqQJ1vSHzUAv-hI227XwdnfO8yGaDKysut8wg4LkXcahoORLRuLenQ7DSRb8gmRV98zw/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging" width="320" /></a></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>What's your teacher demographic? Mostly newbies, veteran teachers, or a mix of both?</li><li>What are their pain points in the classroom? This likely varies by grade. Don't assume - ask them. This will show that you are interested in helping.</li><li>How are teachers and other staff members being treated by parents?</li><li>Do they feel supported? Why or why not?</li><li>What are their personality types? </li><li>Do they know YOU? </li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>The key is to make sure you're well-educated on your faculty, gain their trust, and ensure they feel supported! Not sure how to do that? No problem, these 6 activities will help you learn more about your staff and help them feel supported all year long.</div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Staff Meeting Icebreakers </h2><div>The beginning of the year is hectic for everyone in the school system. This time of year marks when new teachers might be entering your school and this is an important time to make sure they feel welcomed and supported in their teaching journey. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Meeting-Ice-Breaker-4524032?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Ice breakers like these are the perfect way to make your staff meetings lively and engaging and will help both veteran and newbie teachers get to know one another." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJxElSAaw9mjmpU8uscJIgUYEumVctYQFUHitJCmPOjoKztAC09-xfMdGXl46uvLHv1KDoeYQmOcrAWikMPdCfjI9p_dL0C-Q7YDPoOVFZ5hS0zrIgrU9XCcfMSl5fEbZYfrb2XnNsqyr9Og-JZklkbhLAXBWUCGHcxhLZA_iAeBhhvf0lcFIC3K-mA/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%208.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging Ice Breakers" width="320" /></a></div><div>This can be a "make or break" moment. After all, if a new teacher or staff member doesn't feel welcomed into their new community it can be hard to persevere through the struggles of that first year!</div><div><br /></div><div>With all of this in mind, we also know that staff meetings are packed with TONS of things to cover. </div><div><br /></div><div>You're short on time, and while you want to ensure everyone is acquainted, you've also got a fair bit of ground to cover too! </div><div><br /></div><div>This is where simple <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Meeting-Ice-Breaker-4524032?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Staff Meeting Icebreakers</a> will save the day. These fun get-to-know-you sheets aim to have staff get another person's signature on each square. The squares list things like:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Pinterest-worthy classroom</li><li>taught 20+ years</li><li>literacy guru</li><li>long commute to work </li></ul><div>The idea behind these fun icebreaker sheets is that your staff will be presented with an opportunity to learn a bit more about their peers during meetings. They will discover commonalities, get to laugh and converse about some of the funny topics, and make newbies feel welcome! </div></div><div><br /></div><div>There are 4 different options, so you can use a variety of these sheets for a large group of staff, or repeat this activity once a quarter. This quick and easy icebreaker is always a hit, and easy to implement. Plus, it's a wonderful way for YOU to learn more about your staff too! </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Staff Morale BINGO </h2><div>Next up, who doesn't love BINGO? This simple game is a fun option that can be used all year long to keep your staff meetings feeling a bit more lively. The object of these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Meeting-BINGO-7733145?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Staff Morale BINGO</a> cards is to mark as many boxes off with an X (or a digital sticker on a PDF) during the meeting. Since these can be printed or sent out digitally via email, they're great for Zoom meetings too! The boxes are filled with fun topics like:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Meeting-BINGO-7733145?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use a staff meeting BINGO game like this to keep your teachers engaged during staff meetings this year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIKcjCL6S5ViId3x3GeeaEG7KbcWz7YQuIFlziP5qoy7wufvYDyL6rGPBg33sCzt6eph047TCX_pdSsCnp-I9ePMb7Rfdb8f5FvHKJ0PTW8BlCHqhkbAxnWVRu2qUIqoTK7Ybv6ieXAMUgaG9qS7feet9xl18nBewvqgCPi_yp-b_K62JeJf-3NR7G3g/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%203.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging Bingo Activity" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I enjoyed my favorite beverage during the meeting. </li><li>I received a compliment from our principal. </li><li>I sat with my teaching BFF. </li><li>I brought a shareable treat to the meeting. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>These simple boxes are easy to follow along with during the meeting and add a touch of fun to what might feel like an ordinary (and sometimes monotonous) monthly task. The boards also feature seasonal decor on the game boards as well because we all know how much teachers love a good theme, right? </div></div><div><br /></div><div>After the meeting, staff members can turn in their game boards and be rewarded with some kind of prize. That piece is up to you, it doesn't need to be fancy! Just a small token of appreciation is often all it takes to boost staff morale and encourage your teachers. </div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Four Corners Staff Meeting Game </h2><div>Next up, let's talk about <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Meeting-Four-Corners-7192704?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Four Corners - Staff Morale Edition.</a> Four Corners is such a great way to infuse a little bit of fun in your monthly staff meetings without taking up a lot of time. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Meeting-Four-Corners-7192704?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="A four corners activity like this is perfect for staff meetings because it won't take up a lot of time to run and is fun for everyone." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzV_8GCWmFF0uOGw-1mdn-Nfix-fW9CvHWFp0aUp_P3rMQKoDOoAObuhU3pjHzqhO88M2Po-AAlXV_5dOCL1Hm-C3-EKaAm-QSlz8cDaUxq9RW6-JJXviEvx6gt03-KRXr9Fn6JwUfptOV5M4po75hzSgbj68jFwBzAe9aOblZG_lhOs0TLwGA4NjkYA/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%204.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging Four Corners Activity" width="320" /></a></div>There are 20 different questions included along with 4 corner signs to hang in the room. This game helps get your staff up and moving, mingling, and getting to know each other a bit better. </div><div><br /></div><div>To play, read or hold up a question and answer choice. Next, staff will mix and mingle while moving to the corresponding corner to answer the question correctly. </div><div><br /></div><div>The format of this game makes it easy to customize based on the amount of time you have to spare. If you have limited time, choose just a couple of question cards. If you have more time, use more.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great starter activity for your staff meeting to get everyone started off on the right foot and set the tone for a fun meeting! It's also great as a mid-way movement break. Students aren't the only ones that need brain breaks!</div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Staff Morale Photo Hunt </h2><div>This next activity is really fun, and a bit unexpected from what you tend to see at your typical staff meeting. To play this <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Photo-Scavenger-Hunt-for-Staff-Staff-Meeting-Fun-8200696?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Staff Morale Photo Hunt</a> game, participants will search their phones for specific scavenger hunt items from a list. There are 3 categories for this game - school life, my work family, and work-life balance. Some of the fun things to hunt for include:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Photo-Scavenger-Hunt-for-Staff-Staff-Meeting-Fun-8200696?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Everyone has a smartphone these days so put it to good use with a fun staff morale photo activity during your staff meetings." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f6aB8SJkXHVEwk6iDoYHB5MMPq5GyVdwFe_xK7AXOuxsa3hmJWM2Ig2Jtkg1RddOmOyXoN2Q34qdOlFjUNTyK3D4qFGy3y-DXk49luVTLuEZaCuALGpP6PKKzlHHDtMEvKQahyitYx15C9H3X6TzSsskwWlDZQsBipvthJ_eIHOYv3GzYv3XdZqZoQ/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%205.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging Staff Morale Photo Activity" width="320" /></a></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>an organization hack (teacher life)</li><li>a student beaming with pride (my work family)</li><li>a self-care photo (work-life balance)</li><li>plus MANY more</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>There are a total of 45 questions across 3 categories and recording sheets for teachers to write down their answers. This is another game that can be modified to meet the time allotment that you have. Simply decide prior how many questions you'll ask, and how much time you'll allow teachers to search.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>After the game is finished, have staff members turn them in and award a prize to the winners. The prize can be inexpensive (or free) too - "Jeans Day" is always a hit! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Gratitude Roses for Staff Morale</h2><div>Focusing on gratitude and appreciation for others is so helpful in boosting staff morale. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Gratitude-Roses-7066839?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Use this gratitude rose activity not only during staff meetings but also throughout the year as a special way to show appreciation to your teachers and co-workers." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIZkVjPAI0h51Sec7Gvo2VBGob9k3iOUL-WyO8nHsfsh_5frd7P-ist8T83SJuledKiSP-GSl5LWwuqR8QJoeWk6tpJaRJvDizezSMKZAmp6QyoEfpB7CDSbKB-oBH2J8WDStuT0OScnrP5QBJOW-Fjjjnb8nMYDQBZZV5axX83gcZvt7CO80F1IiqQ/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%206.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging Gratitude Roses" width="320" /></a></div>The idea for these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Gratitude-Roses-7066839?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Gratitude Roses</a> came from some of my previous administrators who had a real knack for keeping the staff feeling appreciated and motivated. My past two principals began each staff meeting armed with a vase full of fresh-cut roses. </div><div><br /></div><div>During our meeting, anyone in the building could thank a colleague for something that they did well or in recognition for something kind. </div><div><br /></div><div>For example, if another staff member walked your kids in from recess, handled emergency sub plans, covered your class, or helped unjam the copy machine, you could thank them with a rose. The idea is the same here, except these roses come in the form of notes! </div><div><br /></div><div>Simply pass these out, or make them available for your staff to grab at the beginning of the meeting. They fill out the page with a note of gratitude and pass it along to the deserving staff member. These can be used all year long during staff meetings, or placed in a central location to grab at any time. Encouraging kindness and gratitude is always a great practice for boosting staff morale! </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">6. Appreciation Spinners for Staff Meetings </h2><div>One of my favorite ways to ensure that staff feels appreciated is through small tokens of kindness. As a special way to thank your staff for their dedication and hard work, try these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Prize-Spinners-7664596?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Staff Morale Prize Spinners</a> at your next meeting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoG0XiY0f9ZQHT6Q-C2SP4dl2haHDR5MeKhbjHScmuw-mwkxni8zhTzu2SUkdWZ8sAHcP07kDOWmjOfNULIsz7aeBaGtA56Rsnc8ltCyKe7kUk-eNv4kNI1PU5vPuo-9WiB2noQlbPCD1pMETBae24fjZudmwGlBiMvBRCN1VrJoWKDAJvwL7oqQOJQ/s1080/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%207.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Use staff morale prize spinners like these for extra special fun during your staff meetings throughout the year." border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoG0XiY0f9ZQHT6Q-C2SP4dl2haHDR5MeKhbjHScmuw-mwkxni8zhTzu2SUkdWZ8sAHcP07kDOWmjOfNULIsz7aeBaGtA56Rsnc8ltCyKe7kUk-eNv4kNI1PU5vPuo-9WiB2noQlbPCD1pMETBae24fjZudmwGlBiMvBRCN1VrJoWKDAJvwL7oqQOJQ/w320-h320/6%20Ways%20to%20Make%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging%20copy%207.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging Morale Prize Spinners" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>These spinners use fun, seasonal themes, so you can choose a different one for each monthly meeting. Teachers will spin and receive the prize they landed on. Many of the prices are free or very inexpensive which makes this feasible to facilitate. Some of the fun prizes included on the spinners are:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>jeans/comfy clothes day </li><li>prime parking </li><li>having pencils sharpened weekly </li><li>having a bulletin board changed out </li><li>having duty covered </li><li>a candy stash</li><li>a pack of favorite pens</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>When I created this resource, I surveyed teachers to see what they would value most as a prize and many of them said to get more of their time back. You'll notice that many of the prizes on these spinners do just that! These are great to use as a final activity to close out your staff meeting. </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Keeping Staff Morale Up All Year Long </h2><div>Overall, the key to maintaining healthy staff morale is to form meaningful relationships with your team! Taking the time to implement icebreakers, games, and activities focused on building trust, be intentional about showing appreciation, and making room for socializing makes a world of difference. You want to make sure your staff feels heard, valued, and supported. After all, working in education is NOT for the faint of heart in this day and age! </div><div><br /></div><div>My best advice for making sure your staff morale stays high is to keep those meetings fun, and lively month after month. We all have a lot going on, but putting some time into this helps ensure a happy team of teachers. If you want to boost morale all year long, be sure to check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Engaging-Staff-Meeting-Activities-9371447?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Staff Morale Activity Bundle.</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Engaging-Staff-Meeting-Activities-9371447?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Grab this Staff Meetings Bundle to make your staff meetings lively and engaging this year!" border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqkKMRn0yYcYzCfZBQCJYsRN1Kon_1uO7lBNynkFCmru-IgM64WzqjmW5cmEXd1umVmUMayGVErSZUMVXiCzjCzX_sLYtzO_4RzBYhUz0ripcExQwRh3WfaUqPd98E1Tm-6xs5YbZ1TefofNLUygNXM-0UyWKaliH_JQAW8cfZal4h--02YY6EygBZtw/w320-h320/original-9371447-1.jpeg" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging" width="320" /></a></div><div>Included, you'll find all 6 of the fun activities and games mentioned in this post so you can keep the fun rolling in at your staff meetings all year long! With the bundle, you'll be able to...</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>get meetings started off on the right foot every time</li><li>turn boring meetings into engaging opportunities for community building</li><li>encourage teamwork and random acts of kindness among your staff</li><li>recognize staff for a job well done</li><li>help staff members get to know each other (and you) better </li><li>gain teacher trust</li><li>show your appreciation </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>There's really no downside to organizing lively and engaging staff meetings, so make sure to check out the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Staff-Appreciation-Engaging-Staff-Meeting-Activities-9371447?utm_source=Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=6%20Ways%20to%20Keep%20Staff%20Meetings%20Lively%20and%20Engaging" target="_blank">Staff Morale Bundle</a> if you need some no-brainer ways to boost morale among your crew!</div></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Save This Post </h2><div>Don't forget to pin this post on Pinterest to keep these staff meeting ideas handy! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDRREVj9gq_qSBiEM2tAa7Lt7P0XNCtn0neDgn3SS9YPA5w0Hv1x0ac0Vi6S6SsjT-eoVe7eIRCdX8TBTNzKkntE9WwRphu-DkVTpUvDAKJ8Sjg4nl37y6mUvesLnhglwqI6kOoQ9kbSzy3VfVONLm5BpJGEbl3IZxYWUBTfF-nOly4c_4zNdKJRDeQ/s1500/Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Pin%20Templates.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Staff meetings don't have to be boring and tiresome with these 6 fun activities everyone in your staff meeting will love! From fun ice breakers to get to know you activities, to BINGO to prize wheels, your staff meetings will be the stuff of legend this year. Be sure to grab the Staff Meetings Activity Bundle for fun activities you can use in your staff meetings all year long! #tarynsuniquelearning #staffmeetings #successfulstaffmeetings #funstaffmeetings #staffmeetingiddeas" border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDRREVj9gq_qSBiEM2tAa7Lt7P0XNCtn0neDgn3SS9YPA5w0Hv1x0ac0Vi6S6SsjT-eoVe7eIRCdX8TBTNzKkntE9WwRphu-DkVTpUvDAKJ8Sjg4nl37y6mUvesLnhglwqI6kOoQ9kbSzy3VfVONLm5BpJGEbl3IZxYWUBTfF-nOly4c_4zNdKJRDeQ/w213-h320/Taryn's%20Unique%20Learning%20Pin%20Templates.png" title="6 Ways to Make Staff Meetings Lively and Engaging" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-69606662111054927912022-02-03T09:26:00.000-08:002022-02-03T09:26:54.402-08:00Mass Teaching Casualty of the Pandemic<h3><b>Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, how you leave others feeling after an experience with you becomes your trademark. </b></h3><h3 style="text-align: right;"><b>-Jay Danzie</b></h3><div><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrE9wAjs3h1d0-F0T4U8CiAgn7F8Gaw0UPP39_PN-uEhOBMnP5O6sriH2oFrbPg2ngAWtWcZGCs7uunX0doRFJqpPpUu7RIdDrNCJi4m-45EPkvcCsHkE0dBWRqS0bRkF9OWqF-EingtoqZhrpRNWjRl6fLdMmyWg1eNtr-tgoZyu4G1gyBCv-NwcN=s5472" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrE9wAjs3h1d0-F0T4U8CiAgn7F8Gaw0UPP39_PN-uEhOBMnP5O6sriH2oFrbPg2ngAWtWcZGCs7uunX0doRFJqpPpUu7RIdDrNCJi4m-45EPkvcCsHkE0dBWRqS0bRkF9OWqF-EingtoqZhrpRNWjRl6fLdMmyWg1eNtr-tgoZyu4G1gyBCv-NwcN=w375-h249" width="375" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Greetings Friends:</div><div><br /></div><div>This is my first official blog post in ages and the first one since officially retiring from my 33 year teaching career in March, 2021. Having spent many years as a reading intervention teacher, the onset of the pandemic set into motion a chain of events and I was faced with teaching second grade (for the first time) in a remote setting (by my request). My district was scrambling on how to meet the needs of their students and staff but there was much radio silence throughout the summer. In July of 2021, I sent a proposal to my district HR department outlining how I could be a Reading Intervention Teacher, manage the needs of my building's intervention caseload from home, and then all that was left was to determine how to do this technology wise. But they had other plans for me and truly gave me no choice regarding how I would be spending the last year of my teaching career.</div><div><br /></div><div>While initially I wanted to dig in my heals resisting this position, I tried to look at this as an opportunity and a full circle moment, knowing full well that I was retiring at the end of the year. I did not know the full curriculum (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies, etc.) and as a 54 year old, teaching from my basement, I definitely had technology challenges that were huge hurdles for me. Google Meeting, Google Classroom, Flipgrid, Sign Up Genius, Document Cameras, Double Screens, sharing my screen...let alone, how do you engage young students for a full day of instruction when you can not stand beside them, put your hand on their back to encourage them, and trust me when I say the eyes on the back of my head do not work as well via the computer waves! This was certainly a huge undertaking and I wasn't quite sure the effort I was going to have to put forth was worth it for this one last year! </div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward to October...I received a message that our head of HR wanted to meet with me. We met and it was determined that Intervention services were needed for the remote learners. I was told that since this was in my "wheel house" they would like me to ponder moving back to an intervention position.<b><i> (Yup...I was offered the very position I requested in July!)</i> </b>Here's the problem...I had fallen in love with my second graders and did not want to make that move at that time. I had successfully built a community of online learners, I had jumped over hurdles that I did not think I could clear, and although I knew there would be many more hurdles to jump over, I felt I had been through the worst of it and didn't want to be faced with those challenges in my "old but new" position. As a 32+ year veteran in those 6-8 weeks, I had learned a ton of new things, was oddly rejuvenated by my new knowledge, connected with colleagues I hadn't previously worked with closely due to the new position, and found fun, creative, and new ways to teach my second graders and was really proud of myself. Here's the kicker...when I tried to decline the position, I was told that I HAD NO CHOICE AND HAD TO SWITCH POSITIONS. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, I did have a choice at that time. With all of this stress, I decided to take a medical leave in order to reach 120 days...the amount of days required by the state of Ohio to count as a year of service towards retirement. From early October-February 28th, I was on sick leave with my retirement date official on March 1st!</div><div><br /></div><div>Now it is February of 2022. I am on the other side of this, have gained some perspective, still miss being around "my kids" and coworkers too, and I am in constant awe of the fact that you, my colleagues, are still engaged with your students during this pandemic and it is <b>SO HARD...SO DARN HARD! </b>Some days I feel like I deserted my team on the battlefields, but on all days I am grateful enough to have the opportunity for this new chapter of being a full time Teacherpreneur who gets to create curriculum and materials to help my friends who are still in the battlefields. I can take the day off if I want, a snow day does not have nearly the appeal it once did, I can have as many bathroom breaks as I want, and any day can be a Jeans Day!</div><div><br /></div><div> I look forward to seeing this new chapter take shape and see what it holds for me in my "new normal". I hope you stop by and check out some of the great products I have added to my TPT store, with you...my friends and colleagues in mind! Stay the course and please know that you are making a difference, everyday!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Staff-Morale-Staff-Bingo-4143462-1638338437/original-4143462-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="228" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Staff-Morale-Staff-Bingo-4143462-1638338437/original-4143462-1.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Staff-Morale-Appreciation-Prize-Spinners-7664596-1643207523/large-7664596-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="162" data-original-width="162" height="225" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Staff-Morale-Appreciation-Prize-Spinners-7664596-1643207523/large-7664596-1.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Staff-Morale-Jeans-Day-7604508-1641637143/original-7604508-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="240" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Staff-Morale-Jeans-Day-7604508-1641637143/original-7604508-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Taryns-Unique-Learning/Category/Staff-Sunshine-297064"><b>Check Out These Amazing Products to Boost Staff Morale In Your Building!</b></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Taryn's Unique Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12562517351180190361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-354836128070495042019-09-22T07:09:00.000-07:002019-09-22T07:09:53.489-07:00Staff Lounge Makeover<i>The staff lounge in my school was just downright depressing.</i> The furniture was over 25 years old and traveled with us to the "new building" which is over 15 years old if I'm not mistaken. Staff members stopped eating lunch in there years ago. They go in to make an occasional cup of coffee, purchase something from the vending machines, or utilize the fridge for something. But overall, it was a dark, uninspiring space that we all just walked by several times per day. <br />
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As the person in charge of our <i>Sunshine Committee</i>, I try to inspire and motivate our staff and keep morale high, as our job as teachers is already stressful and all encompassing enough. This is no easy task, and one that I don't take lightly. So I approached my principal, Leslie, about this and she was all on board for this. She asked me to spearhead this project, which I gladly accepted the challenge.<br />
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Now, you may be wondering <b>WHERE DOES THE CASH COME FOR THIS TYPE OF PROJECT</b>...right? After all, we are a school and we never have enough money to do things that might be considered "extras" although I would argue essential. Our district office had initially agreed to fund this project. Unbeknownst to me, the other buildings had started re-doing their lounges and the district had coughed up the cash to fund parts of their projects. Our building had some major renovations this past summer and over the summer, the district backed out of this project...at which point I was really disappointed. I had already begun looking at furniture with a representative and had really thought this was going to be a reality for our staff. Luckily, Leslie suspected that this might be the case and put some funds aside so that the major things such as furniture would still be able to happen.<br />
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I knew that I just didn't want a room of new, industrial furniture however. I wanted a room that was worthy of spending time in, a room that reminded us of our lives outside of the school, and a place that staff could take a break from the hectic pace of the day. I was going to need more money than just having the furniture expense covered. I decided to use some of our Sunshine Funds to add some finishing touches. A little surplus of cash in the account made this possible, but soon I realized that I would need even a little more so I didn't run the account dry. I hit up our PTO president and she made a pitch for me to the PTO Board, who also decided to chip in $500. This was agreed upon by our PTO and appreciated by not only myself but the entire staff.<br />
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<b>I bet you are asking...what did this room look like to start?</b> And what were you working with that would dictate the outcome of the room? <br />
<h3>
<br />Here are some before pictures...</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPge9jZjElHDAkV5PwgoZO2MGbTH0GVvphJ4GwLqIr147EYZhfdbBqtjdDSsoV7diMkPgBi60aimdz1o4DdHRTbZltTfSViarPCn1eajK7sRpFlme8xN_YAlQrOHwpha2_AxW7au5y5Io/s1600/Staff+Loung+Pic+2+before.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="319" data-original-width="239" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPge9jZjElHDAkV5PwgoZO2MGbTH0GVvphJ4GwLqIr147EYZhfdbBqtjdDSsoV7diMkPgBi60aimdz1o4DdHRTbZltTfSViarPCn1eajK7sRpFlme8xN_YAlQrOHwpha2_AxW7au5y5Io/s200/Staff+Loung+Pic+2+before.PNG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Icy Gray Blue Walls were a non-color!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-uq0NClfhv13MjTKV3ZTOnMFZ99CAgtFyQ4m1fyJOCvi2xrgaYIjhujTOZKmRhTmHLFUIIDnTOYJQdDPdjp4n2Ih63TcRvdiGnKSdv_FdZNzUQg2p58BQow8E7d0BEkci0u-ClhNV0U/s1600/Staff+Loung+Pic+3+before.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="235" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-uq0NClfhv13MjTKV3ZTOnMFZ99CAgtFyQ4m1fyJOCvi2xrgaYIjhujTOZKmRhTmHLFUIIDnTOYJQdDPdjp4n2Ih63TcRvdiGnKSdv_FdZNzUQg2p58BQow8E7d0BEkci0u-ClhNV0U/s200/Staff+Loung+Pic+3+before.PNG" width="147" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A perfect nook for some soft seating.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3st0qR_A8qNAfJi2XLaeRm0exT6AroJgNrnTJ12vlgCwUZv2gRGT_wmBPBcu4nJrHYVHCKhMY4EkQSBlkG8a-2NTRVbzLetFcy5fcWVyundb3bCfGrM-U-hSyw1Mua7yzI2rfW_v-n0A/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Pic+1+before.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="234" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3st0qR_A8qNAfJi2XLaeRm0exT6AroJgNrnTJ12vlgCwUZv2gRGT_wmBPBcu4nJrHYVHCKhMY4EkQSBlkG8a-2NTRVbzLetFcy5fcWVyundb3bCfGrM-U-hSyw1Mua7yzI2rfW_v-n0A/s200/Staff+Lounge+Pic+1+before.PNG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can get a glimpse of the light blue cabinetry <br />that had to stay put without alteration.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJjp2uQv3IiZy3YE2Ocq_HP208zWzKja2-WzwUUrW4_bZwsG6DRbBUdEKYLIQLtwph2t1fNTv5uFkUOfzhdyKp3OeDqhkRc8Bi-NeXO-lwfCyUw5U1iRef3MOOsuKVbMPgcuU20ll2I0/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Pic+4+before.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="234" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJjp2uQv3IiZy3YE2Ocq_HP208zWzKja2-WzwUUrW4_bZwsG6DRbBUdEKYLIQLtwph2t1fNTv5uFkUOfzhdyKp3OeDqhkRc8Bi-NeXO-lwfCyUw5U1iRef3MOOsuKVbMPgcuU20ll2I0/s200/Staff+Lounge+Pic+4+before.PNG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entry to the room and just blah!<br />The chairs aren't even in there because<br />nobody came in to sit anymore!</td></tr>
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<h3>
<b>What did I envision for the room?</b> </h3>
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Teams of teachers typically include 5 grade level teachers, plus at anytime, there could be an intervention teacher and/or special education teacher joining the team for lunch, plus a few others. I decided I wanted tables that could accommodate at least 8 people so entire teams could be together or even merge teams who overlap on lunch times. Also, I was going for a coffee shop/Panera vibe in the room. Tables of various heights, upholstered furniture that would be durable for the long run, and flexible seating for various staff preferences.<br />
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I chose 2 high top rectangular tables that could fit eight adults each, 2 low round tables that could fit four adults, and a couch and club chair, coffee tables and end tables, a conversational area to warm up the room just perfect for a break, not necessarily just for eating. The chairs are either royal blue or navy blue to tie in with the cabinetry. The upholstered pieces were only available in gray or black from this company so I reluctantly went for the black. (My car had light leather seats and I did not like when my jeans wore off on them. I was afraid that would happen with the gray upholstery.) I decided it could all be warmed up with some throw pillows, a rug, and a fresh coat of paint.<br />
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<b>Here are the results. Drum roll please.....</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdN0xqfHuuzjcBhtrOEPe-KnNKcbVSveMprT7qMxz1a58e_bAIGjUiRhxyXF9AOs_8wk4i9CniGO2EpFPH2jj2pUJ9Md38agpKcdvmT8fdTz2Fj-5HZOOpMTJwtPDyQ8-DS37aR0cu4Ho/s1600/Staff+Lounge+After+Collage+Picture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="317" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdN0xqfHuuzjcBhtrOEPe-KnNKcbVSveMprT7qMxz1a58e_bAIGjUiRhxyXF9AOs_8wk4i9CniGO2EpFPH2jj2pUJ9Md38agpKcdvmT8fdTz2Fj-5HZOOpMTJwtPDyQ8-DS37aR0cu4Ho/s400/Staff+Lounge+After+Collage+Picture.PNG" width="397" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture does not show the walls freshly painted. This is the old color that at<br />time of print was not completely painted. Our amazing custodial staff is painting<br />a little at a time and these steely gray walls are being replaced by IVOIRE, a Sherwin<br />Williams color that is a buttery tan.</td></tr>
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<br />
You can see that this room is not merely furniture, it encompasses way more. I spent a lot of time trying to personalize it and make it feel homey. I purchased things from IKEA, At Home, The Fabric Shack, Marshalls/TJ Maxx, Walmart, and a local book store. Online purchases were made from Ruggable and Seventh Avenue. Ruggable makes a very interesting product. The rug is more like a fabric that gets put upon a pad. The rug passed our Fire Inspector and is even machine washable. I thought this would be perfect for maintaining the cleanliness of the room and any spills that may happen due to the nature of the space. The coffee tables were very reasonable from Seventh Avenue. I wanted low profile tables that had a lot of glass so they did not visually take up a lot of room in the corner. I purchased adorable salt and pepper shakers for each table with fun sayings on them, along with the bright place-mats for a pop of color. A new microwave was purchased and the old one was thrown out as it had seen better days....so there are now 2 clean microwaves for staff to access. There is a coffee station that is absolutely adorable, loaded with coffee pods and teabags, cups, sweeteners, a frequent stop for many staff members. There is a coat rack from IKEA so staff members who have duty after lunch can hang their coats out of the way while eating. There are puzzle books: crosswords, Sudoku, Word Searches, and Jumbles, along with pens for those wanting to zone out for a few and truly take a break. Throw pillows camouflage the black upholstery and add some fun colorful touches. The cornice above the window to the hallway was built by my handy colleague, Darren, out of wood and I upholstered it using batting and a fabulous fabric that ties into the rug and pillow colors. The only thing you can't see in these pictures is the new paint on the walls, which is called <b>IVOIRE</b>, by Sherwin Williams which is a buttery tan, which also picks up the color in the fabric cornice. The icy gray is now almost gone, with only one wall to paint behind the vending machines. <br />
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<h3>
<b>Take a closer look here: </b></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHEWrkDKyJui6BQAoabQVs4-YTyt09TmrJBini_Uu4pElk27nXM5zIKyy1rx-0ph1zehFY58U4CzRuAVAWz2hQc7EWJxCidmhm1dkpv-BFyIt4XxynDFbzzYFMITc-U2AcARmNV1NxkfY/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+3+Rug.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHEWrkDKyJui6BQAoabQVs4-YTyt09TmrJBini_Uu4pElk27nXM5zIKyy1rx-0ph1zehFY58U4CzRuAVAWz2hQc7EWJxCidmhm1dkpv-BFyIt4XxynDFbzzYFMITc-U2AcARmNV1NxkfY/s320/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+3+Rug.PNG" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruggable.com is where I chose to purchase<br />the rug. It is machine washable and thought that<br />would be perfect for cleanliness and a great<br />pop of color to balance out the black upholstery.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguM_4ZLhLgAoxPTFaykjZXamjt7KjhT9E3_RCfG98EV4thA8BgWvQe2sGbu8o9GbG2UYPVQ-xO2soGsU5_mzHu6xwITsnYNQak5_UbzZr1iHKnoTV0JocWrEBhwt6uAAviIUL34zyvclk/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguM_4ZLhLgAoxPTFaykjZXamjt7KjhT9E3_RCfG98EV4thA8BgWvQe2sGbu8o9GbG2UYPVQ-xO2soGsU5_mzHu6xwITsnYNQak5_UbzZr1iHKnoTV0JocWrEBhwt6uAAviIUL34zyvclk/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+2.PNG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are stocked up on coffee pods, tea bags at<br />our coffee station. You can see the cute salt and<br />pepper shakers too that we have for each table. The<br />cabinetry above is stocked with plates, cups, sweeteners,<br />and utensils. The goal is for those who use them to replace<br />them as needed. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLOsPTNdHnTWZcwwE7nm4Fwl7cMnUtgYCJJ2LJTQ_xFRc1Wv9hebkNuqgQUtwXoL060DTxan08wSSSDbQTwFhqVFfE6FCpkwMOxK095mRfF_k16h5uJuck3acAgmdI5kAb473n6g18ZT4/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLOsPTNdHnTWZcwwE7nm4Fwl7cMnUtgYCJJ2LJTQ_xFRc1Wv9hebkNuqgQUtwXoL060DTxan08wSSSDbQTwFhqVFfE6FCpkwMOxK095mRfF_k16h5uJuck3acAgmdI5kAb473n6g18ZT4/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+1.PNG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The end tables and coffee tables were ordered online<br />from a company called Seventh Avenue. The set was less than<br />$200 for the three tables and they look great. Plus some cute<br />accessories to make it feel a bit cozier.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yLJ0NY5MG8cAEYnsZlMVmyo7oE_JuBG-nlWRJu5nCXEFrSWqOWaGy0GRXriPQ_LiNZin_GvVWsJrPIzRWl2nBqmMhXOyUTf-p3YxLP2CifUYaruADSZom3ABrZihobHNo1u-11dkZsA/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yLJ0NY5MG8cAEYnsZlMVmyo7oE_JuBG-nlWRJu5nCXEFrSWqOWaGy0GRXriPQ_LiNZin_GvVWsJrPIzRWl2nBqmMhXOyUTf-p3YxLP2CifUYaruADSZom3ABrZihobHNo1u-11dkZsA/s1600/Staff+Lounge+Specifics+4.PNG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These "frames" were from IKEA. I bought three of them<br />then stalked my colleagues on Facebook to get pictures of<br />family and friends to clip up here. There are a ton more<br />clips and I hope they will add to and/or replace<br />the pictures that are currently hanging. A touch of our homes and<br />our hearts! This was a total hit with STAFF and completely<br />unexpected.</td></tr>
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Overall, I'm extremely pleased with the transformation that has taken place in this room. While there are other options for places staff members can eat lunch and convene, there has been an increase in the amount of staff actually utilizing this space, and more importantly coming together, socializing, and bringing sunshine into the lives of colleagues and friends. I'd call that a win-win, and an overall success! Has your staff lounge been re-done? Is this a project you are working on? I hope you got some great ideas from seeing what has been done in our building.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" />Taryn's Unique Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12562517351180190361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-54923636298735635852017-06-29T09:18:00.000-07:002017-07-18T16:32:03.950-07:00Find It....Letter RecogntionHave you ever seen those <b>"Find It" Games</b> that are filled with lots of things for little people to find? I've adapted it for my emergent readers and I am absolutely <b>IN LOVE</b> with my latest edition. If you teach little people, this could be a great activity to put at the top of your list when school is back in session for the Fall. Now I am an intervention teacher and I have small groups of students usually in K and 1st Grade. I'm not doing this with a full classroom of students so you can determine whether or not this activity would be cost prohibitive to you or not. Or perhaps you can be creative and get donations from parents or other sources in order to finance the activity. However, if you choose this is for you, then let me tell you ALL about it.<br />
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When I first started making <b>"Find It"</b> jars with my students, I collected baby food jars for each of my kiddos so they could take one home with them. The positive was that I could always gather a bunch of baby food jars and they were really inexpensive...and in fact FREE. Now I'm not a mom, but I think that perhaps baby food doesn't come in jars anymore or at least the moms in my building do not buy baby food in jars. I have had a lot of difficulty getting my hands on the quantities that I need so this summer, I decided to go another route. I decided to see if I could purchase "jars" and while I was at it, I wanted plastic in case of those pesky falls caused by clumsy hands. This is what I came up with and I am really liking the solution. Although they are about $1.50 each, they are so well worth it in my opinion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGDxOkUNGDI6PyKxWRC4FxtN7YbPneHdgaiMKynYmxApntpdk8U00f-P9OgQORpxbT2DaAEsPoiE5qmmuB1PxdMYHn4IhuuNlkwHapLLkocopQ4BFzAh2bzu1XxF2Q4meeQkiY2TyE6A/s1600/jars.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="371" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGDxOkUNGDI6PyKxWRC4FxtN7YbPneHdgaiMKynYmxApntpdk8U00f-P9OgQORpxbT2DaAEsPoiE5qmmuB1PxdMYHn4IhuuNlkwHapLLkocopQ4BFzAh2bzu1XxF2Q4meeQkiY2TyE6A/s320/jars.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DCIYB1K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1"><b>Plastic Spice Jars for Find It Letter Games</b></a></div>
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In addition to the bottles/jars, you need alphabet letter beads. You can use one type or more than one type. This summer, I lucked out and found some beads at <b>The Dollar Tree</b>, so I wasn't shy with my purchasing there, as I've never found them so inexpensively. I still have some leftovers from previous years, so I will use those as well. When using the letter beads, I want each student to have at a minimum, one of each letter in the alphabet. But in edition, I have them spell out their name in beads and I include a bunch of extra letter beads that they did not know based on their initial letter screening assessment. That way they will learn the letters that are important to them (their name letters) and the letters that are important to me (the ones they do not recognize). If you are not able to find letter beads at your local dollar store, you can always find them at your local craft store. And just a side note....beads are usually capital letters, not lowercase, at least that's what I have found.<br />
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To fill up the jar the rest of the way so they look like an authentic "Find It" Game, you need Ice Cream Sprinkles. I'm from Ohio and we called them Jimmies growing up. Although perhaps Jimmies meant either the chocolate only or the rainbow only. I'm not 100% positive. Anyway, I purchased mine awhile back but they came from Gordon Food Service in 25 ounce jars. But I have since found them online for cheaper. And I would use what I needed and save the rest for the following year. I figure if they are expired, it's no big deal as we are not eating them right?<br />
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I also include a shiny penny in each jar. I tell my students that is for good luck. For whatever reason, they really like the idea.<br />
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I began using whatever alphabet strips I had in my room when students would sort through the letter beads. They were encouraged to find a bead that matched each of the 26 letters. But I have since made a fun sorting sheet just for this activity and occasion. I printed them on card stock and laminated them on my personal laminator, so they are extremely durable and will be good to use in years to come. If you would like to download this SORTING SHEET FREEBIE, you are more than welcome to do so by clicking on the link below.<br />
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<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/txbzy0exoie4ziz/Find%20it%20Letter%20Sort%20Sheet%20secured.pdf?dl=0">Find It Bead Sort Sheet</a></div>
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Once your students have found all the letters you require or suggest, you can use a funnel and start pouring in the sprinkles into the jar. Mix in the beads so they are spread throughout the layers of sprinkles, alternating sprinkles and beads, as well as the penny. Leave a little space at the top of the jar so the sprinkles and beads can rotate through the jar. And this is what the final product will look like. </div>
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So good luck with your project. If you use some different materials, I'd love to hear how you adjust this activity to meet your needs. Comment below and let me know how it goes. </div>
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And for more great letter and sound activities, please check out the link up below so you can see what some of my favorite TPT teacher author's have up their sleeves. </div>
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Until Next Time, </div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Taryn's Unique Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12562517351180190361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-42468669290901118592017-05-02T16:22:00.003-07:002017-05-02T17:56:40.826-07:00Word Work For the Whole Year, Meet Ziggy, and Final Wednesday Linky of the YearOne of my favorite things to teach during Language Arts is<b> "Word Work"</b>. As an intervention teacher, so often my struggling readers do not realize there are similarities between known words and unknown words. I love a good word work session to point this out to my Intervention Students, but used this task a ton when I was in the classroom as well. I also love using it as a sight word review, for all of my students but especially the youngest. So this activity is truly versatile.<br />
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All you truly need to do this activity is a set of letters- could be letter cards, letter tiles, or my personal favorite, magnetic letters as I love doing this activity on a magnetic board that hangs on the classroom wall. My favorite magnetic letters are from <b>Educational Insights</b>. They come in a variety of sizes so I have a ton of the small ones, and a few sets of the big one for my magnetic board. This is what they look like in case you want to take a peek. The thing I love about them the most is that they are blue(consonants) and red(vowels). You can visually see the color pattern in the words, and your students can start to see that EVERY SINGLE WORD HAS AT LEAST ONE VOWEL. This is key information for a student to realize.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Educational-Insights-AlphaMagnets-Color-Coded-Lowercase/dp/B0006MU23W/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1493728440&sr=8-6&keywords=magnetic+letters+educational+insights">Magnetic Letter- Jumbo for Whole Group</a></div>
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I also love having my students sitting around me on the floor near the board so all can see and participate. Students are armed with a clipboard, recording sheet, and a pencil for recording the words they come up with during the lesson.<br />
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So what is on the board you may be wondering? You can put any phrase or saying on the board that you would like. It can be seasonal, related to a holiday, associated with a theme/topic you are working on...the sky is the limits. I make sure the phrase has a variety of vowels in it usually, unless we are focusing on a particular word family and then the vowels are limited. You will know when you have a phrase that is not working for a lesson as there will be very few words that can be made from the component letters. Here is one that we were working on in second grade intervention this week:<br />
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My rule is that my students can not use the words that we start with, so no "happy", "mother(s)", or "day". In teaching my students to do this, I often times will encourage them to put a different beginning on the word and make word family words such as may, hay, say, pay, etc. We learn how to add endings such as "ed" or "ing". We don't focus on plurals and just add "s" to a word once per lesson. Once your kiddos get the hang of this routine, they truly could work for 45 minutes on this task. Depending on what grade level you teach, your students can work on a variety of different skills. This is truly so easy to differentiate and I have used this with all grade levels from K-4th. </div>
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Now because this is so popular with my students, I have to say after years of using this activity, I finally printed up an instruction sheet. I duplicated this on card stock and laminated it so it is durable and easy to leave should I have a sub in my room. It is way more detailed than I could ever be in my lesson plan book. Take a peek at it here and you can get a free download of this in my TPT store as well. You might consider tucking a copy into your sub folder for a last minute absence.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0LWH3X75V4T6w_2yDZWz9S08QiS7vbp_hs1fSp7GKlhZnJ-rah17EF0ejQBFUvqkbFJ3r2Y0iXLVY4WVsDYotscdobLxWaNjbX2iwaCn0SnSwrHdMx2eB0RRVcC8Mv18nN_j0mTdsZQ/s1600/magnetic+letter+snip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0LWH3X75V4T6w_2yDZWz9S08QiS7vbp_hs1fSp7GKlhZnJ-rah17EF0ejQBFUvqkbFJ3r2Y0iXLVY4WVsDYotscdobLxWaNjbX2iwaCn0SnSwrHdMx2eB0RRVcC8Mv18nN_j0mTdsZQ/s640/magnetic+letter+snip.JPG" width="475" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Magnetic-Letter-Move-Around-Directions-3138482">Direction Sheet- FREEBIE!!!</a></div>
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If in the event, you are not creative, don't think you can come up with the phrases for this word work, and just like something already prepped for you and your busy lifestyle, I have included a link to my Growing Bundle that is available in my TPT store. You will see a sample recording sheet for Chinese New Year below. It also includes a second sheet so you can copy the recording sheets back to back. (Color and B&W are included too!) This bundle will have all the information you will need for an entire school year of word work, as well as all the recording sheets and phrases you will need (7-9 lessons per month). It is not finished yet, but grows month by month and the charge for the product goes up each time something new is added. So you can get a good deal on it still if you are interested in incorporating this super activity into your routine. You can take a look at it here for more information and details. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVRe3bSdyG_iRW3Q2h9qlNXgw2uKcmbhyFywJIJFtIWc9I1-BMTzr-GucJ8CJUdXLUVavH-zbAg6gIh59ytul739m8bjfbcaiIgngIgijrJqFpy95mROoxH4uBfKKO4_00zU_8M5A4sg/s1600/Feb+snip+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVRe3bSdyG_iRW3Q2h9qlNXgw2uKcmbhyFywJIJFtIWc9I1-BMTzr-GucJ8CJUdXLUVavH-zbAg6gIh59ytul739m8bjfbcaiIgngIgijrJqFpy95mROoxH4uBfKKO4_00zU_8M5A4sg/s320/Feb+snip+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Magnetic-Letters-Move-Around-Word-Work-for-the-Entire-Year-Growing-Bundle-2951607">Growing Magnetic Letter Move Around- YOU CAN STILL SAVE $24 OFF THE YEAR LONG PACKET!</a><br />
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Here is what Mary Jayne from Rockville, Maryland recently had to say about this growing bundle.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>"I absolutely LOVE this activity. I bought magnetic letters for my students but didn't have a structured activity to guide them. Needless to say, the build a word rotation wasn't very effective. Then I found your activity and my kids are really benefiting from having something to guide them."</i></span></span></div>
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Now, for the really fabulous news. After losing my mascot, Izzy, this past Labor Day Weekend, our home and hearts have been filled with our newest addition, Ziggy. We picked up this little guy this past weekend, and he is just a little cutie pie! He is spunky, playful, loves to chew, and loves to explore. He is especially fond of his sock monkey, which may be bigger than him! While I knew how much we missed Izzy, this little guy has made it even more obvious. We are so glad to hear the pitter pat on the floors and he has wiggled his way into our hearts in just a few short days. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14UbUK0EMxh6MrE3HshAAoZYYcWhb4K0aqeNz5HMTlH8m-F1P-o-BdhFAI6ldaEeErs7E8NJxT91_4gQFwSdB3eLDoiOAU8yKWaWvvu7aA1bK2mGhd2ZjVr2OMYUmE6MVF1TKuYkqB5M/s1600/IMG_3869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14UbUK0EMxh6MrE3HshAAoZYYcWhb4K0aqeNz5HMTlH8m-F1P-o-BdhFAI6ldaEeErs7E8NJxT91_4gQFwSdB3eLDoiOAU8yKWaWvvu7aA1bK2mGhd2ZjVr2OMYUmE6MVF1TKuYkqB5M/s320/IMG_3869.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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And one last little nugget. Below you will find some great seasonal products from some of my favorite TPT friends. Take a peek below, and perhaps you will find something you just must need prior to the end of the school year!<br />
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Happy Word Working!</div>
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Until Next Time, </div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /><br />
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Taryn's Unique Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12562517351180190361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-31286409024850479642017-04-26T01:19:00.000-07:002017-04-26T01:19:03.971-07:00End of the Year is Near and Puppy News!Does it feel as if the year is winding down for you? I'm always amazed how once standardized testing is complete, it seems as if there is a collective "sigh of relief" and the light can be seen at the end of the tunnel. Our final day with students is May 25th and our last day is the 26th. That's one month to go. My mom used to say, the older you get the faster time goes and she was certainly right about that.<br />
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So are you looking to find a fun end of the year treat for your students? They are all over Pinterest for you to pick. I have used this one by Falling into First a few times and it's always fun for my primary students. They are simple to prep and very low cost. You can always find multi-packs of bubbles at this time of the year at the Dollar Store, Christmas Tree Shoppe, or Target. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcf0ym9vmq9-obFqjg3mkbqNBfXu6h5NQ_4wMYxsrDfz68RREIltxtH3C7c517A-u0vXG3KKWW-WNpgpkaNHIp44JWVo0SdvEosjy8OdI7sGxhys9TsSAyxPVVJxrs0fvir0GWXOpcmWA/s1600/Bubbles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcf0ym9vmq9-obFqjg3mkbqNBfXu6h5NQ_4wMYxsrDfz68RREIltxtH3C7c517A-u0vXG3KKWW-WNpgpkaNHIp44JWVo0SdvEosjy8OdI7sGxhys9TsSAyxPVVJxrs0fvir0GWXOpcmWA/s320/Bubbles.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another fun option, which is incredibly inexpensive are these adorable door hangers. My students will get these too. The fun graphics make these door hangers so festive. Simply print on card stock, cut out, and your students will love them. There are five different versions, the one pictured below plus four others with adorable summer boys and girls on them. Just click on the link below and you can take a closer look at them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTF0dE5T0M2SKww3qmTN9x6Su8-MD0iOobUu-t4JERvv5gMRm8pL2gse46KAAK7RnhXvo71hH_MHGZp3xlYMD3ctnL3PyptHEQALCF1EO2ucoLzWoUNieC0EVgei_YsYJts9KzrRZTlQ/s1600/Door+hanger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTF0dE5T0M2SKww3qmTN9x6Su8-MD0iOobUu-t4JERvv5gMRm8pL2gse46KAAK7RnhXvo71hH_MHGZp3xlYMD3ctnL3PyptHEQALCF1EO2ucoLzWoUNieC0EVgei_YsYJts9KzrRZTlQ/s320/Door+hanger.JPG" width="241" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Student-Gifts-2570706">End of Year Door Signs- Student Gift</a></div>
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Some of my TPT friends will be posting some great end of the year items for you to peek at below. As for me, it is 3:30 a.m. on a weeknight and I'm heading back to sleep. I awoke thinking of our new puppy, which will be coming home this weekend. Perhaps I'm trying to get used to sleepless nights again. It's been 17 years since I have had a puppy and the Hubs definitely doesn't know what he is in for! How can we resist this adorable face. WISH US LUCK and check out Instagram and Facebook this weekend for the big adventure. I'm sure I will post a ton of cuteness.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5E3AV6wUdZdaE2jM2sjf3Yi8ZVlByxY0Bc8EYxcR9tCmiZf2HLfkMcxVD899MV9XvQtOITqpu4BMhaP2xf1EW5KBFJ0KhNcluiMwm5XE4iAAG8S0mLGcKuumKjbNThAdNchuQd4dOfc/s1600/IMG_3663.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5E3AV6wUdZdaE2jM2sjf3Yi8ZVlByxY0Bc8EYxcR9tCmiZf2HLfkMcxVD899MV9XvQtOITqpu4BMhaP2xf1EW5KBFJ0KhNcluiMwm5XE4iAAG8S0mLGcKuumKjbNThAdNchuQd4dOfc/s400/IMG_3663.PNG" width="225" /></a></div>
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Until Next Time,</div>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPnwCT6079fXafYWGANB89nlN6N3FL5rxXHyymY1MHr8ZTOOv4mZ4EZg12Qaz4R0xrklgwips3L94duW0yt-OzHs_n_vYCL0hyphenhyphenFVFLUhzo-lu9cqeoUGvjeuSu53z775PcPWP6Bq6I78/s320/Signature2.png" /><br />
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Taryn's Unique Learninghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12562517351180190361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6153354437948188480.post-4635724517684533932017-04-20T15:38:00.000-07:002017-04-20T15:39:21.389-07:00A Lot of Sunshine for My ColleaguesI have mentioned before that I am in charge of the Sunshine Committee at my school. We have just finished our state testing as well as MAP testing and we are all simply EXHAUSTED! As chair of the committee, I love looking for ways for our staff to come together for fun, put a smile on their faces, and spread some sunshine. So for the first time ever, I hosted a "Salad Bar Luncheon" for staff. Let me explain!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfnB4gK8GBQeStVNc5RVJRqwpXjCjiIfeS11ekUtAoAeO_iOCazhylQBpIbYjydKokfTXHj67E2Oo1PJus26r3-5B1vFWrp6fdU4DMCStd_K3MEsp7dhbxc8r_sa6K7trdFK96NBUNvaw/s1600/IMG_3740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfnB4gK8GBQeStVNc5RVJRqwpXjCjiIfeS11ekUtAoAeO_iOCazhylQBpIbYjydKokfTXHj67E2Oo1PJus26r3-5B1vFWrp6fdU4DMCStd_K3MEsp7dhbxc8r_sa6K7trdFK96NBUNvaw/s1600/IMG_3740.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_1501824680"></span><span id="goog_1501824681"></span>I printed and posted the above sign in key locations around our building to talk this activity up in order to maximize participation. Next I posted a sign up in the office as I knew I couldn't do this alone, nor could the committee afford the whole luncheon. In order to dine, staff members had to bring in a salad ingredient. My sign up sheet included various veggies, proteins, pasta salads, Ramen Noodle salads, Caprese salads, fun toppings, beverages, and crackers. That way, staff members had the option of making it as easy or complicated as they wished.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbyKPyTgxSbKxkVqY5OLRLDZwcSG77XrG9Fft82ASFuq19rzSHLerNW7AWha_hQdKgAmh5UMGdm00dzCkAf_rfCJfRhRebnkqUHuw1ZsmwejKLjocKUv1bnoFfPRPOvMUUAJ05XQ3H1o/s1600/IMG_3741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbyKPyTgxSbKxkVqY5OLRLDZwcSG77XrG9Fft82ASFuq19rzSHLerNW7AWha_hQdKgAmh5UMGdm00dzCkAf_rfCJfRhRebnkqUHuw1ZsmwejKLjocKUv1bnoFfPRPOvMUUAJ05XQ3H1o/s1600/IMG_3741.JPG" /></a></div>
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Lettuces, salad dressings, plates, utensils, and napkins were all purchased with Sunshine Funds. (That was my job.) I purchased my lettuce in bulk from Gordon Food Service, as well as some large bowls and utensils, so we could use them again in the future.<br />
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Upon arrival at school, staff members brought their veggies, toppings, beverages, and salads to the staff lounge where we loaded everything onto a cart. All items were wheeled into our walk in refrigerator in the kitchen in order to keep chilled until lunch time. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAGHDm7mE_J_tLlslGkP-XK5PAoO0ms3vNy1s8yCHvkRGSO9Ww_qWeRcnYFznEmqS21b9PEuQLoEdtEvZRV0ZP2OF6BINVDI8H9p9fM6LBskV2o8bDCR-_wbSPeNt_W6hrCKz6trY3csw/s1600/IMG_3743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAGHDm7mE_J_tLlslGkP-XK5PAoO0ms3vNy1s8yCHvkRGSO9Ww_qWeRcnYFznEmqS21b9PEuQLoEdtEvZRV0ZP2OF6BINVDI8H9p9fM6LBskV2o8bDCR-_wbSPeNt_W6hrCKz6trY3csw/s1600/IMG_3743.JPG" /></a></div>
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In our building, our lunch times vary so lunch is served for various staff members anytime 10:45-2:00. I staggered the times that food went out twice in hopes that things remained fresh and cold. And here is what our spread looked like! All staff members were encouraged to eat in the common staff lounge as opposed to isolated with their grade levels, and most did just that. It was great to see everyone chatting, mingling, eating, and smiling.<br />
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And the best part....there are still leftovers for Friday's lunch. Food is truly the way to make our staff members smile. We are all so tired this time of the year, and it's always so well received and appreciated. So you may want to consider doing this at your school. This truly is the time of year when we simply can not eat one more turkey sandwich. A fresh, beautiful salad fueled everyone up for an afternoon of fun and learning. Perhaps you will try this in your own building! <br />
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Until Next Time,<br />
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