How to Choose a Classroom Theme: 7 Considerations

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Show Notes:

Let's face it: when you see a classroom theme that you love, it's easy to commit to that theme right away and build an entire classroom around it.

However, in today's episode, let's talk about seven things I've learned to look for in a classroom theme to ensure that you're not wasting time or money, and to ensure that you're creating an inclusive space for your students. 

In this week's show, you'll learn:

• How to view potential classroom decor through a new lens that ensures a more streamlined, well-managed classroom.
  
  
• What function classroom decor has in terms of your students' daily interaction with language. 
  
  
• How the font in a theme is helping or working against your students' ability to learn.
  
  
• What to look for in the labels you choose for classroom and student materials matter (and how this differs in lower and upper elementary).
  
  
• When and where cursive can and should be used in your classroom (and when it shouldn't be).
  
  
• How the simple (and well-intentioned) decisions we make when choosing a classroom theme can cause some of our students to feel like they don't belong - and how to prevent this from happening. 

I hope that this episode is helpful for you as you make a decision about the theme to use inside your own classroom. And, if you have follow-up questions, be sure to leave your comment below, or join our Facebook group to continue the conversation!

Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast, Beginning Teacher Talk, and creator of the innovative literacy program for 1st and 2nd grade, Dogs Help Kids Read and Succeed, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com and at howdogshelpkids.com.

Want to listen on a different platform? Here are the links:

Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts.

Click here to listen on Spotify.

Click here to listen on Stitcher.

Click here to listen on iHeart Radio.

Links & resources mentioned inside this training:

• Ask to join our Beginning Teacher Talk Private FB Group

• Check out Dr. Lori's Farmhouse Chic Classroom Decor.

• Check out Dr. Lori's Chalkboard Brights Classroom Decor.

Related episodes you might enjoy:

• 6 Things to Do This Summer to Ensure You are Ready for Your First Year: The New Teacher Guide

• The Best Classroom Theme EVER ❤️

• 16 Cheap, Free, AND Creative Ways to Get Books for Your Classroom Library

• How to Prepare for Your First Day and Week of School: Four Steps to Success

   

              

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