Creating a classroom that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional can be a challenge. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can create an environment that is comfortable and inviting for both students and teachers. From furniture arrangement to classroom aesthetics, there are many ways to make your classroom more inviting. One of the most popular and effective classroom design tips is to incorporate flexible seating. By providing different seating options, such as couches, bean bags, and floor cushions, students can choose a space that best suits their learning needs. Additionally, incorporating plants and natural elements can help bring a sense of calm and relaxation to the classroom. Incorporating bright colors and interesting textures can also add a unique and inviting touch to the classroom. Finally, adding plenty of natural light and utilizing smart lighting can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. By following these simple tips, you can create a classroom that is both inviting and functional.
Diverse Seating
Flexible seating gives student choice in the classroom in how they work and learn. It isn't about letting students roam around the classroom and not pay attention. Flexible seating allows students to choose what's right and comfortable for them. Here are some popular seating ideas for the classroom.
Bean bag chairs
Couches
Floor cushions
Balance balls
Balance ball chairs
Kore wabble chairs
KidsErgo seat
The Surf portable lap desk
Learning lap desk
Scoop rocker
Nesting Stools
Dragonn Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Classroom Colors
- Red.
Red stimulates the adrenal glands. Red can help increase student energy and creativity to activate learning. Using red in places where students engage in repetitive or detailed oriented tasks can help students.
- Yellow.
Yellow also activates creativity. It also is the color to use when you need to grab your students' attention. Display important study assets on yellow boards.
- Orange.
Orange helps with critical thinking and memory. It also boosts enthusiasm and mood. Orange has been linked to an increase in appetite, so it may be a good idea to keep some snacks around!
- Green.
Green is calming and relaxing. It can foster long term concentration and mental health.
Keep a Clean Classroom
Keeping a clean classroom is important to creating a pleasant classroom. Here are a few ways to keep a clean classroom.
- Take out the trash and wash the bins daily.
- Clean the desks, tables, and chairs daily.
- Develop a system for toys. If a toy has been used, have the child put the toy into the "dirty" bin and disinfect them before they're grabbed by other students.
- Clean your whiteboards frequently.
- Clean carpets frequently.
- Offer cleaning supplies that students can use to clean their space.
- Research and implement classroom organization.
Create a Calming Learning Environment
Creating a calming learning environment will boost student learning. Here are a few ways to do that:
- Create a Calm Corner.
- Don't clutter the space too much. Too much decoration can be anxiety inducing.
- Hide the clutter with storage units.
- Cover harsh lighting.
- Try a lavender essential oil diffuser.
- Use warm lighting.
- Create a homey atmosphere.
- Add a cozy rug.
- Try using neutral colors.
- Add plants and natural textures.
- Offer weighted lap blankets.
- Offer fidget toys.
- Incorporate a morning routine with mindful yoga and stretching.
- Hang some curtains but maintain natural lighting.
- Offer soothing music.
- Add positivity and focus on mental health with your classroom decor and posters.
Up your Classroom Arrangement Game
Arranging a classroom can be tough, especially if you're not blessed with a huge room. Here are some classroom setup ideas to help you get started:
- Keep your teacher desk away from student desks.
- A mix of grouped desks and singular desks.
- Have a dedicated location for collaborative spaces.
- Arrange the room so that the teacher can monitor the space easily without blind spots.
- Keep active spaces away from quiet learning spaces.
- Use the vertical space for storage to keep as much of the floor space as possible.
- Have clear and safe traffic paths.
Having a safe and pleasing classroom will not only have a positive impact on your students but will help you be your best self. Our environment affects us greatly and being proud of your classroom will improve teaching and learning.
CE Credits Online offers online professional development courses for K-12 teachers in the U.S.. We offer a variety of courses on topics ranging from mindfulness practices and teaching English language learners to teaching neurodivergent students. Check them out today!