This year, I decided to make some unused classroom spaces into small interactive centers that could serve as the perfect little transition activities or warm-ups. Instead of hanging pictures or decorations in these spaces, I wanted them to have a purpose. Below are some examples of how you can turn those unused spaces into workspaces, while still creating fun, eye-catching decorations for your classroom.
Oil drip pans are AMAZING giant magnet trays. I’m sure they serve a wonderful purpose with mechanics; however, they are pretty spectacular for teachers as well. We attached this baby to the back of a shelf and it is it’s own little center. Right now, I have beginning sound sorts up on ours from my beginning sounds clothespin pack, but I change it all the time!
We have a few of these lower shelves around our classroom. I put some of my sorting tasks out on them, covered with contact paper, and added some containers to make it a standing work station. Another perfect little transition activity for students. In the picture above, I am using the jar sort from my colors clothespin sorting activities.
Do you have any unconventional centers in your classroom? I’m always looking for more ideas!