Teaching hacks are a great way to make teaching a rewarding job. Sometimes, it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. Between organizing materials, keeping students engaged, and managing a classroom, it can be overwhelming.
Source: Pinterest
But what if you could simplify your day with some easy, effective teaching hacks? These tricks can save you time, energy, and even money, while also making your classroom a more productive and enjoyable place. Let’s dive into 11 clever ideas that will make your teaching life a little easier!
Repurpose Soap Dispensers for Paint
If art time gets messy, here’s a great way to keep things tidy. Instead of letting students pour paint from large containers, repurpose old soap dispensers for a more controlled approach. Students can pump out just the right amount of paint, and you avoid spills and waste.
Source: Pinterest
This method is a simple way to keep the classroom cleaner and reduce the amount of paint used. It’s also a great way to recycle!
Keep Students Engaged with Mystery Rewards
Keeping students focused and motivated can be tricky, but a mystery reward system can help. Write out rewards like “extra recess” or “movie time” on the board and cover them with sticky notes.
Source: Pinterest
Each note represents a behavior or task you want students to complete, such as “no talking during work time.” When students achieve the goal, they get to uncover the reward. It adds a bit of fun to your classroom while encouraging positive behavior.
Transform Book Jackets into Decorations
Do you have old book jackets lying around? Don’t throw them out—turn them into colorful decorations! You can create a “READ” sign above your classroom library or use them for themed bulletin boards.
Source: Pinterest
This creative hack brings life to your space and promotes reading in a fun and visual way. Plus, your students will love seeing their favorite book covers displayed around the room.
Use Socks as Marker Holders and Erasers
Sometimes the simplest ideas make the biggest impact. Repurpose single socks as dry-erase marker holders and erasers for your students. Students can slip the sock onto their non-dominant hand to easily erase their boards.
Source: Pinterest
The sock also doubles as a storage pouch for the marker. It’s an affordable, fun way to keep students organized and reduce clutter on desks.
Hide Your Snacks in Plain Sight
Let’s face it, sometimes you need a snack break. A clever trick is to store your personal snacks in a container labeled “extra tape” or “old worksheets.” This keeps your favorite treats out of sight, so you always have an energy boost when you need it.
Source: Pinterest
Doing this ensures you can keep going during those long teaching days without students knowing your secret stash.
Keep Early Finishers Busy
What do you do with students who finish their work early? Prepare for these moments by having extra activities on hand, like STEM boxes or fun worksheets. Place them in an easy-to-reach spot where students can grab them independently.
Source: Pinterest
This not only keeps early finishers engaged, but it also prevents them from distracting others who are still working.
Organize with Color-Coding
Color-coding is a simple way to bring order to your classroom. You can color-code everything from student folders to supplies like crayons and markers. This system makes it easy for students to find what they need and helps keep the classroom tidy.
Source: Pinterest
Plus, it adds a vibrant touch to your space. With this organizational hack, you’ll spend less time searching for materials and more time teaching.
Signal When You’re Busy with a “Do Not Disturb” Light
Managing a classroom means juggling tasks, but it’s hard to focus when students constantly interrupt. To solve this, use a “Do Not Disturb” light. Set it to green when you’re available to answer questions and red when you’re busy.
Source: Pinterest
This system teaches students when it’s appropriate to approach you, giving you more control over your time and focus.
Simplify Classroom Jobs with a Star Student
Instead of assigning a bunch of different classroom jobs, why not choose one “Star Student” each day? This student can handle all the small tasks, like passing out papers or watering the plants.
Source: Pinterest
It’s a time-saver for you and makes students feel special. Plus, rotating the role ensures everyone gets a turn to contribute.
Organize Supplies with Ready-to-Go Bins
Keep your classroom organized with labeled bins for all your supplies. Having everything in its place not only saves time but also helps you see when you’re running low on materials.
Source: Pinterest
It’s a practical way to stay on top of things, and your students will appreciate the easy access to supplies. This hack reduces the chaos of searching for items during a lesson.
Boost Confidence with Custom Pencils
Need a quick way to motivate your students before a big test? Write short, encouraging messages on their pencils.
Source: Pinterest
Whether it’s “You’ve got this!” or “You’re ready!”, these small notes can help boost your students’ confidence. It’s a personal touch that can make a big difference in their mindset before a challenging assignment or exam.
Create an Early-Finisher Corner
Designate a special corner in your classroom for students who finish their work early. Stock it with interesting books, puzzles, or brain teasers to keep them occupied while others complete their tasks.
Source: Pinterest
This setup allows you to maintain a calm, focused environment, even when students work at different speeds. It’s a great way to ensure everyone stays engaged and on track.
