April 16, 2020
Reading, writing, and math are essential subjects that need to fit into a typical school day. But every elementary school teacher knows that these subjects can prove impossible to teach if students aren't able to sit in their chairs and pay attention. A popular way to combat the high energy of the young child while providing opportunities to learn is the infamous "center time."
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Reading Hideaway by Jonti-Craft[/caption]
Anticipated by teachers and students alike (for different reasons!), center time is a great way to get your students moving and learning independently. If you're looking to enhance your center time, take a look at this must-have stations.
Art
Art is a great way to allow students to express themselves both recreationally and in supplement to a lesson that has been taught throughout the day. Somehow, learning is much more fun when paint is involved. Set up some easels in your classroom to help your students get creative. Easels with storage and multi-sided easels are great options for classrooms with little extra space. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="431"]
Art Center for Two by Wood Designs[/caption]
Science
It is the unfortunate truth that teachers don't have enough time to teach science as they are pressured to focus more on math and reading. Centers are a great way to enhance the science curriculum without stealing time from other subjects. Set up simple experiments for the students to complete on their own or let them learn about plant life through observation and gardening. A multi-functional science lab allows students to work on a number of different science projects at the same time without having to visit different stations for each activity.Technology
There are a number of apps and programs that help students practice their skills and computer time is a most-loved station for students of all ages. A workspace center is the perfect place to set up tablets or computers without the risk of students tripping over or unplugging cords. A whiteboard allows for a visual reminder of whose turn it is on each device. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="350"]
Workspace Center by Jonti-Craft[/caption]
Reading
Whether you want to offer books on based on reading level or you want to provide supplemental reading to go with lesson, a reading station is essential in every classroom. Pair a large bookcase with fun and comfortable seating to create a peaceful reading nook.Quiet Work
Center time is the perfect time for teachers to provide extra help and for students to make up work that they may have missed. Study carrels offer a quiet place for students to work alone or with a teacher without getting distracted by all the activity in the room. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="650"]
Table Top Study Carrel w/ Four Sections by Jonti-Craft[/caption]
The sky is the limit when it comes to creating interesting and worthwhile stations for center time. With a little activity and the right equipment, every classroom can be creative and fun, even in the smallest of spaces. Contact us for all of your classroom furniture needs.