from Joanne Masters, Curriki Contributor
Whether you are an educator or a parent, getting organized for back to school can be a challenge. To help you get a jump-start on this process, we have amassed top industry best practices and tips ranging from new teachers strategies, to back-to-school checklists to creative ideas/icebreakers for the first day of school. Check out the top ten and let us know what you find helpful!
1. New Teacher Collection of back to school web links, activities, and practical information for new teachers.
2. From Simplify 101, seven creative Back to School Organizing Tips ranging from establishing a communications hub with a command central binder to a simple yet, effective “don’t forget” door hanger with critical take to school items.
3. Call your school to find out the required back-to-school paperwork and mandatory immunization shots . Many kids have been delayed from starting their first day due to improper school papers and/or lack of all the required immunization shots. This site explains the typical vaccinations types, reasons for the shots and an excellent resource center for parents.
4. Play the “Match Game” with your kids and their clothes. Enlist your kids to clean out their closets, sort out the old, match up outfits and donate unwanted or outdated clothing to charity. This activity will help reduce the morning dressing chaos that places stress on the entire family and starts the day off on the wrong foot.
5. Back to School: How can Curriki Help? Find Icebreaking activities, student facing materials, tips on networking with other teachers and more.
6. From the Teacher’s Corner to Reading Rockets (resources from the national multimedia project) to A-Z Teacher Stuff, NEA’s Back to School site is a great resource for educators.
7. Back-to-School Checklist from OnLine Organizing is a concise list covering everything from buying school supplies to teaching kids to set boundaries.
8. Need classroom management guidance or best practices for student motivation? At a loss for ideas to do the first day of class? From creative writing to icebreakers to management tips you’ll ind it all on Curriki’s Back to School. Lessons and activities targeted for grades K-8.
9. Don’t forget to pay attention to the classroom ambiance and arrangement. A warm and welcoming classroom environment provides a great back drop for students to learn.
10. Beginning of the Year Teacher Strategies: Getting the Year Started on the Right Foot. About.com has great advice on Preparing for the First Day of Class.
11. Extra Credit: USA.gov Back to School has a wealth of resources for parents, students and educators. A particularly good segment is on Safe and Healthy Students that addresses back to school anxiety, bullying, preventive drug abuse, school nutrition and much more.
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