How Having an Organized Classroom Will Help You Be a Better Teacher

Are you having trouble getting your classroom organized and keeping it that way? If you’re like most teachers, organization is a challenge. It’s hard to find things and even harder to keep everything organized. But did you know that having an organized classroom can help you be a better teacher? Here are four ways an organized classroom can help you teach more effectively:

(1) You’ll be able to find what you need quickly and easily.

(2) You’ll be able to focus on teaching instead of cleaning up.

(3) Students will be more likely to stay organized if they see that you are too.

(4) An organized classroom is a calm and peaceful place, which is great for both students and teachers.

So why not try getting your classroom organized today? It might just make you a better teacher!  Here are some tips that have helped me in the past. Hopefully, they can help you too!

Classroom Organization Tips to Try

First, create distinct areas for different activities. For example, have a reading area, a writing area, and a math area. This will help students know where to go and what to do when they enter the classroom. Determine the purpose of each classroom area and arrange the furniture accordingly. For example, the desk area should be conducive to individual and group work, while the reading corner should be cozy and comfortable.

Storage Tips

Second, use storage bins and containers to keep materials organized and accessible. Students should be able to quickly find the supplies they need for each activity easily. Make sure that there is enough storage space for all of the materials that will be used in the classroom.

Bookcases, cabinets, and baskets can all be used to keep the classroom tidy. Make sure your materials are clearly labeled and easily accessible. This will help your students find what they need quickly and efficiently.  Here are a few favorite items:

► Milk crates are a favorite of mine. They can hold pretty much anything. Try them for keeping indoor and outdoor recess games, station activities that are not being used, and books that are not being used frequently enough to be out on a bookshelf

► Another of my favorite storage solutions is plastic drawers. Used them to house lesson plan materials for the upcoming week.

►Rolling carts with drawers are fantastic. There are many options to choose from. Here is one option that worked well for me.

► I also recommend small and large-sized plastic drawers. They can go inside cabinets, under desks, on top of desks…really anywhere! Remember to give the drawers “themes” so you don’t end up putting random junk in the drawer.

► Plastic shoe boxes offer containment for various things, from classroom library books to extra student materials. They are also great because you can put them inside cabinets and stack them easily.

Try to match the bins you organize your items in as much as possible. Mismatched containers (color-wise) can add to visual clutter in your classroom.

Labels for an Organized Classroom

Make sure to label everything. Check out these Classroom Organization Labels from Tammy’s Toolbox.  They come in many themes to match your décor.

► What teacher doesn’t love flair pens? Flair pens work well for classroom organization because they help you color-code and label things in your planner and around your room.  Check out these pen sets.

► Cutting Machines:  This is a bit extra, and I wouldn’t suggest getting one of these just for the purpose of organizing your classroom. They make labels, décor, and student materials so fast and easy to make.  If you think you can use an electric cutting machine, try the Cricut or Silhouette machines. If you will use this for more than just your classroom, then it’s worth the splurge!  I personally use a Cricut and wouldn’t be without one.  Maybe share it with other colleagues. This mini Cricut Joy is a fun option too.

Establish Classroom Organization Routines

Finally, establish routines and procedures for classroom activities. For example, have a specific way of passing out materials and cleaning up after an activity. Take some time to create a daily routine that includes a mix of whole-group, small-group, and individual activities.

Click here to get a free guide to Classroom Organization and Classroom Décor.  This reference has more tips, checklists, and a catalog of classroom décor that can help you organize quickly and easily.

There you have it! Hopefully, these tips will help you get your classroom organized and keep it that way. It can be a lot of work, but it’s definitely worth it. And if you ever need more ideas or someone to talk to about classroom organization, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to help in any way I can. Until then, good luck and happy organizing!

P.S.  Check out these posts:

Classroom Décor – How to Use it for Student Success

Classroom Organization Ideas for Back to School

⭐ Sign up for my mailing list and get access to the free resource library.  There you will find some free organization labels to get you started on the road to an organized classroom.