If a teacher’s real job is to inspire kids to LOVE learning and reading, then creating environments that engage and inspire kids to relax and read should be on the top of every teacher’s list of things to do in the classroom.
Even when I taught junior high, I made it a point to have bean bags and a reading rug in our classroom. Some teachers may feel that having these areas in intermediate and middle school classrooms, is “too old”. I think these spaces should exist in all classrooms, even high school! As adults, we love to get cozy at coffee shops or libraries. Having spaces to read and getting kids out of their desks is critical. As educators, we must consider our childrens’ movement and sensory needs. These needs are critical to the brain and learning.
Here’s a few creative ideas to make your classroom reading nook or classroom library area come alive for your students.
This makes me want to be a first grader again via Mr. First Grade
A Pool in the Classroom? Engage even the most reluctant reader via Pixie Chics
(You probably could score a pool on clearance given summer’s end!)
Make some easy palm trees for your reading corner with this secret ingredient found
at all dollar stores via Lists to Live By
Want great classroom seating without spending a bundle?
Score some innertubes on summer clearance and
some fabric with a craft store coupon via Apartment Therapy
Create a canopy and mood lighting via Play-Based Classroom
Make a Cardboard Reading Cave via Seven Kids on a Dime
Why not read around a faux campfire via The Teacher Wife
A Quiet Reading Tent via True Servant Preschool
DIY Hula Hoop Tent via Hoosier Homemade
A Cozy and Inviting Reading Area via The Learning Pad
How to Organize Student Choice
over Cool Classroom Seating via One Lesson at a Time
Great use of color and crate seating via Pencils Books and Dirty Looks
Remember to add some coziness with pillows via What Happens in 2nd Grade
Reading Hut via Mrs. McLaren’s Little Super Heroes
Now that you are inspired to create a kid-friendly space for your reading areas and nooks, now: a few ideas to help you organize and collect your classroom library books!
A must-read post on organizing your classroom library
with a secret on how to EASILY level your libraries via The Applelicious Teacher
Great ideas on how to layout your classroom library via C Jayne Teach.
A must read post.
New to teaching or need to refresh your library without breaking the bank?
Check out resident book hoarder Nicolette’s tip on
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Have a great idea and want to share it? Whether you have a blog or not, we’d love for you to submit an idea here!
Happy Library Building,
Nicolette
Chandra says
Thank you so much for featuring my library organization post! Best of luck to you!
Chandra
cjayneteach.com
Liz@HoosierHomemade says
What a fun round up! Thanks for including our Hula Hoop Tent!
~Liz@HoosierHomemade