Trying to create a warm and creative learning space on a budget isn’t as hard as one might think. With a little creativity, an imagination, and a little DIY, teachers can pull together a great looking classroom without spending a lot of money. Here are some ideas to get you started and help you create a customized, creative, and welcoming classroom on a budget.
Washi Tape or Decorative Duct Tape
Proof that duct tape can fix, almost, everything. Duct tape and washi tape now come in hundreds of prints and patterns. And, you can use it to spruce up even the ugliest of items. Use colorful tape around some recycled cans to create pencil cups, or around old Pringles cans to store rulers. Use it to label storage cubbies, file folders, or to place students’ name tags on their desks.
Recycled Frosting Containers
If you’re a baker, or know someone who is, small plastic frosting containers make great storage for small classroom items as well. Use paper or decorative tape to over them up, and voila!
Thrift Store Furniture
Second-hand stores are always a great place to find items that would be useful in the classroom. A nice rocking chair for the reading corner, milk crates that can be transformed into stools, or rugs that can be cleaned and used to cover up an old, plain floor.
Plastic Storage Bins with Drawers
These can serve a lot of purposes and are easily dressed up with colored or patterned paper or even paint. Use these bins as paper storage for students to turn in their work, retrieve missed assignments while they were out, or to store class supplies.
Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard is also a multipurpose classroom tool. Use large boxes to create privacy screens or use smaller boxes as storage. Cover them in paper and/or colorful tape and you’ve got an easy DIY on a budget.
It’s important when trying to create a warm and welcoming room to keep to a theme, as to prevent things from looking messy and disorganized. Visit School Specialty for more great classroom ideas and products to help you create an inviting room where your students can thrive.
The post Strategies for Upgrading Your Classroom on a Budget appeared first on Schoolyard Blog | Teacher Resources | School Specialty.
