I feel extremely passionate about creating a safe environment where everyone feels whole and can be themselves. I believe the only way a person can truly learn is in such a space. This is especially true for kiddos!
So, I worked really hard to implement a Class Motto to use with my students in the very first moment they have with me each day. You can read all about my Class Motto here. One thing I think is worth noting about it is how important the eye contact is to the motto.
If you are looking for other ideas for how to start your class on a positive note in order to establish a safe learning environment, I’ve rounded up 3 really great ideas below.
Special thanks to the teachers who shared what’s working in their classrooms for this post!
Mindful Minute for Art On A Cart
I use a chime and do a "mindful minute" which is: eyes closed, bodies still, deep breaths. Then we are ready to be creative!
I needed some sort of transition since I was art on a cart. Entering an art room is a reset on its own, but when I enter their everyday classroom, I needed a ritual like this.
I found it brought the energy down and started us off in a ready-to-listen mode.
from Stephanie Pinto
Seeing Colors
A few years ago, I purchased a spinner made up of different colored bells. When you spin it, it chimes and while you look at it you can see a rainbow of colors.
It takes a few seconds for it to wind down and stop spinning. During those seconds, students focus on the colors and the sounds. It really helps to reset the energy in the room. It has been such a positive thing for my class.
from Whitney Solotoria
5-4-3-2-1 Finger Presses
I like to start class with a quiet moment to help students get their intentions set. This is a great tool for them to use when they need to calm themselves down on their own. I like using it to start class and knowing they have this tool in their toolbox too.
I have them place their palm down flat on the table. They can do both hands or just one. Then, I have them close their eyes and we count 5-4-3-2-1 in a whisper together. They press a finger down for each different number.
We start off counting pretty quickly and then repeat it getting slower and slower each time. This works so well for all grade levels from pre K to high school in my experience.
I catch some of them nodding their heads as they count or tapping their feet. All of that is okay! Those are ways they self-soothe.
Some of the other teachers in my building have been putting their own spin on this as well. They count with multiples sometimes. They practice their spelling words. I notice it still serves to calm and soothe the students as well.
from Ashley Anderson
What Do You Do To Start Your Class Off On a Positive Note?
You can let me know here. I’d love to be able to share your ideas with other art teachers here on the blog and on my social media.
P.S. If you aren’t following me on TpT yet, here’s your chance. Let’s connect over there too!
I’m Amanda, and I align standards and integrate content to help teachers meet the needs of the Whole Child in art class! I have yet to find a standard that I couldn’t teach through art, and I want to share it all with you.
Not sure where to start with bringing art and content together? This freebie guide is packed with 25 ideas to align your art lessons with math and ELA standards. Your students will be crafting art and practicing algebraic thinking. Win-win!
I want all students to feel successful in the art room, so I created a standards-based Daffodil Collage lesson to do just that! The lesson includes an artist study, student reflection, and more, so push your artists to their full potential.
Follow along on my Instagram page for more tips on teaching the Whole Child in the art room!
Connecting art and content together doesn’t have to be mind-boggling. I’ve made it simple with 25 math and ELA art lesson starters - for free! Plus, I included 15 worksheets for students to reflect on their art-making journey.