Category: classroom-management

For routines, behavior systems, classroom tips.

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Amazon Testing Week Survival Kit for Teachers: Motivation, Rewards, and Classroom Tools

Testing season can be one of the most challenging times of the year for both teachers and students. Long testing blocks, changes in routine, and the pressure to perform can leave everyone feeling a little more stressed than usual. Over the years, many teachers have discovered that a few simple tools and small rewards can make a big difference in helping students stay motivated, focused, and confident during testing week.

Whether it’s offering a small reward after a testing session, providing calming tools for students who feel anxious, or simply making sure the classroom is set up with the right supplies, thoughtful preparation can help testing days run much more smoothly.

Below you’ll find a collection of classroom-tested ideas and helpful tools that many teachers use to support their students during testing week. From motivation and rewards to calming strategies and practical classroom supplies, these resources can help create a positive testing environment where students feel encouraged to do their best.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.

Small Rewards to Keep Students Motivated During Testing Week

Testing week can feel long for elementary students, and a little encouragement can go a long way. Many teachers like to offer small rewards or motivational tools throughout the week to help students stay positive and confident. These simple items can make testing feel a little less stressful and give students something to look forward to after each testing session.

Motivational Stickers

Motivational stickers are a classic classroom reward that students still love. Teachers can give them out after each testing session or use them to recognize students who show effort and perseverance. Stickers with encouraging messages can also reinforce a positive mindset during testing week.

→ Motivational Stickers
https://amzn.to/4lvKevf

Affirmation Stickers

Affirmation stickers are another great option for testing week. Many of these feature encouraging phrases like “You’ve Got This” or “Believe in Yourself,” which can help students feel confident before and after a test. Teachers often place them on student work folders, testing booklets, or reward charts.

→ Affirmation Stickers
https://amzn.to/4scby4h

Mini Fidget Toy Pack

Short breaks between testing sessions can help students reset and refocus. A small pack of mini fidget toys can be a great reward option and can also help students release nervous energy. Teachers often let students choose one after completing a test section or use them as a calm-down break tool.

→ Mini Fidget Toys
https://amzn.to/470GJqH

Affirmation Stress Balls

Stress balls are another simple tool that can help students relax during testing week. These affirmation stress balls combine a calming sensory tool with encouraging messages. Students can squeeze them during breaks to release tension and refocus before the next test session.

→ Affirmation Stress Balls
https://amzn.to/3NfHJ3v

Student Goal Setting Chart

A goal-setting chart is a great way to help students stay motivated throughout the testing period. Teachers can have students set a personal goal for focus, effort, or perseverance each day. Watching their progress on the chart can help students stay engaged and proud of their hard work.

→ Goal Setting Chart
https://amzn.to/4bcrUUs

Testing-Themed Pencils

Testing-themed pencils are a fun and inexpensive reward option. Many sets include encouraging phrases like “Do Your Best” or “You’re Awesome.” Teachers often give these out at the start of testing week or as a small reward after completing a test.

→ Testing Pencils
https://amzn.to/3P9zQxe

Inspirational Wristbands

Inspirational wristbands are another fun way to boost student confidence during testing week. Students enjoy wearing them as a reminder to stay positive and keep trying their best. They also work well as a simple reward at the end of testing or as part of a small encouragement kit.

→ Inspirational Wristbands
https://amzn.to/4lADQTA

Tools to Help Students Stay Calm and Focused During Testing

Testing week can bring extra nerves and restlessness for many students. Having a few calming and focus tools available can help students regulate their emotions and stay engaged throughout long testing sessions. These tools are especially helpful for students who benefit from quiet movement or sensory supports.

Chair Bands for Fidgety Feet

Chair bands are a simple way to support students who need a little movement while they work. These bands stretch across the legs of a chair, allowing students to gently push or bounce their feet while staying seated. Many teachers find that this small movement helps students stay focused during longer testing periods.

→ Chair Bands for Fidgety Feet
https://amzn.to/4bkZ1Ek

Silicone Worry Stones

Worry stones are quiet sensory tools that students can rub with their fingers to help calm anxious feelings. Silicone versions are especially classroom-friendly because they are silent and easy to clean. These can be a great option to offer students during testing breaks or as part of a calm-down space.

→ Silicone Worry Stones
https://amzn.to/4bK8W7K

Sensory Rings

Sensory rings are another quiet fidget option that many students enjoy. These small rings can be rolled up and down a finger to provide gentle sensory input without causing distractions. Because they are small and silent, they work well during testing or independent work time.

→ Sensory Rings
https://amzn.to/4bplIHz

Maze Breathing Boards

Breathing boards help guide students through slow, controlled breathing patterns that can reduce stress and help them refocus. Maze-style breathing boards are especially engaging for elementary students because they can trace the path while practicing deep breaths. These work well as part of a short calming routine before testing begins.

→ Maze Breathing Boards
https://amzn.to/4sJUulR

Printable Calm Down Strategy Cards

Having calming strategies readily available can make it easier for students to manage testing anxiety. These printable SEL strategy cards provide simple techniques students can use when they feel overwhelmed, such as deep breathing, grounding exercises, or positive self-talk.

→ Printable SEL Strategy Cards
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Printable-SEL-Strategy-Cards-for-K3-13766964

Calming Strategy Choice Boards

Choice boards give students a visual way to choose a calming strategy that works best for them. These boards can be placed in a calm-down corner or used before testing begins to help students select a strategy that helps them feel ready and focused.

→ Calming Strategy Choice Boards
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategy-Choice-Boards-and-Mini-Menus-SEL-Tools-for-Calm-Down-Corner-13868696

Calming Sensory Strips

Calming strips attach directly to a student’s desk and provide a textured surface for quiet sensory input. Students can run their fingers across the strip while working, which can help reduce fidgeting and increase focus. Because they stay on the desk, they are an easy and discreet classroom tool.

→ Calming Sensory Strips
https://amzn.to/4luNfvy

Practical Testing Tools Teachers Love

In addition to motivating and calming students, having the right classroom tools can make testing week run much more smoothly. These practical items help create a focused testing environment while also making it easier for teachers to manage the logistics of longer testing blocks.

Visual Countdown Timers

Visual timers are one of the most helpful tools for testing week. Instead of repeatedly asking how much time remains, students can easily see the countdown and pace themselves. Teachers often use these timers to signal testing time, breaks, or transitions between sections.

→ Visual Countdown Timer
https://amzn.to/4sfwQxU

→ Alternative Visual Timer Option
https://amzn.to/3P1MYo5

Testing Privacy Folders

Privacy folders help reduce distractions and keep student work confidential during testing. Many classrooms already use them for assessments, but they are especially helpful during state testing periods. Colorful folders can also make it easy to organize materials by class or testing group.

→ Multi-Colored Privacy Folders
https://amzn.to/40wTuWo

→ Black Privacy Folders
https://amzn.to/3Nqehb5

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Some students focus better when outside sounds are minimized. Noise-cancelling headphones can help block distractions and create a quieter testing experience, especially in classrooms where multiple groups may be working at the same time.

→ Noise-Cancelling Headphones
https://amzn.to/4sPlhgP

Heavy-Duty Pencil Sharpener

A reliable pencil sharpener is a must during testing week. Students often need freshly sharpened pencils before a test begins, and a sturdy classroom sharpener helps avoid interruptions. Many teachers keep one sharpened-pencil station available so students are ready before testing starts.

→ Heavy-Duty Pencil Sharpener
https://amzn.to/40xLCDT

Teacher Testing Week Survival Essentials

Testing week can be just as exhausting for teachers as it is for students. Long testing blocks, schedule changes, and the pressure of helping students do their best can make the week feel especially busy. Having a few small comforts at your desk can make the days run a little smoother.

Insulated Coffee Mug

A good insulated mug is a lifesaver during testing week. With long mornings of monitoring tests, it’s nice to have coffee that actually stays warm. Many teachers love mugs with fun sayings like “Chaos Coordinator,” which perfectly describes testing week in many classrooms.

→ Chaos Coordinator Insulated Coffee Mug
https://amzn.to/4uqSyR7

Water Bottle

Staying hydrated during long testing days is just as important as staying caffeinated. A durable water bottle at your desk makes it easy to take quick sips between monitoring and helping students.

→ Teacher Water Bottle
https://amzn.to/3NEjT1q

Desk Snack Organizer

Testing schedules can make it hard to find time for a real break, so having a few quick snacks nearby can help keep your energy up throughout the day. A small desk snack organizer makes it easy to keep granola bars, trail mix, or other quick snacks within reach.

→ Snack Organizer Option 1
https://amzn.to/4rAr5tA

→ Snack Organizer Option 2
https://amzn.to/4lrYpkK

Desk Fan

Classrooms can start to feel warm during spring testing season, especially when students are working quietly for long periods of time. A small desk fan can help keep your workspace comfortable during those long testing blocks.

→ Desk Fan Option 1
https://amzn.to/4shtk64

→ Desk Fan Option 2
https://amzn.to/4cOhA6g

Comfortable Chair Cushion

Sitting and monitoring testing for extended periods can take a toll. A comfortable chair cushion can add extra support and make long testing sessions much easier on your back.

→ Chair Cushion Option 1
https://amzn.to/40wU72c

→ Chair Cushion Option 2
https://amzn.to/4lsaSVD

Motivational Teacher T-Shirts

Sometimes the best way to survive testing week is with a little humor and positivity. Motivational teacher t-shirts are a fun way to bring some encouragement to the classroom and remind students (and yourself!) that everyone is doing their best.

→ Motivational Teacher T-Shirt
https://amzn.to/4sce8XV

→ Teacher Encouragement Shirt
https://amzn.to/40xXW75

→ Teacher Inspiration Shirt
https://amzn.to/4luQS4R

→ Positive Teacher Shirt
https://amzn.to/4uqSbG9

Testing season can feel overwhelming, but a few small tools and thoughtful supports can make a big difference for both teachers and students. From motivational rewards to calming tools and practical classroom supplies, these items can help create a positive testing environment where students feel encouraged to do their best.

Whether you’re preparing for state testing or simply looking for ways to make testing week run more smoothly, having a few of these resources ready can help everyone feel a little more prepared and confident.

Save This Post for Later

Testing week always seems to sneak up quickly, and it can be helpful to have a list of ideas ready when you’re preparing your classroom. If you’re planning ahead for testing season, be sure to save this post so you can easily come back to it when you’re getting ready for testing week.

📌 Pin this post to your “Teacher Ideas,” “Testing Week,” or “Classroom Management” Pinterest boards so you have these ideas handy when you need them!

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A Simple SEL Routine That Builds Connection in Under 5 Minutes a Day

Back-to-school season is the perfect time to set the tone for connection and emotional safety in your classroom. One simple but powerful tool I’ve used over the years is the student check-in — a quick, intentional moment that helps kids pause, reflect, and feel seen.

Whether you’re building your classroom community from scratch or looking to strengthen your existing routines, incorporating daily and weekly check-ins can make a big difference in how students show up, both emotionally and academically.

Why Use Student Check-Ins?

Student check-ins create space for:

  • 🌟 Self-awareness – Students begin to notice and name their emotions.
  • 💬 Student voice – They know their feelings matter and are heard.
  • 🧘‍♀️ Emotional regulation – A consistent routine helps them manage ups and downs.
  • 🤝 Classroom community – Students learn that everyone has good days and hard days.

Best of all? They don’t take long — just a few minutes a day!

What’s Inside the Editable Student Check-In Toolkit

I created this toolkit to make it easy for teachers to get started (or to level up their existing SEL routines). It includes both daily and weekly check-in templates that are simple, age-appropriate, and completely editable to meet your students’ needs.

Here’s what’s included:

✔️ Daily check-in slips (with and without prompts)
✔️ Weekly reflection forms to support goal setting
✔️ Google Slides and printable PDF versions
✔️ Fully editable fields for total flexibility
✔️ Simple, student-friendly design
✔️ Great for calm down corners, morning meetings, or independent work time

How I Use This in My Classroom

I love using the daily check-in as a soft start to our morning. Students grab a slip, circle how they’re feeling, and add a sentence or doodle to share more. On Fridays, we shift to the weekly reflection — where students choose one thing they’re proud of or set a goal for the week ahead.

I’ve found that giving students regular opportunities to check in helps build trust — not just with me, but within the classroom as a whole. It normalizes emotions and opens the door for meaningful conversations.

Tips for Making It Work in Your Routine

  • 💡 Model first: Share your own example as a morning check-in.
  • ⏱️ Keep it quick: This doesn’t need to take more than 5 minutes.
  • 🎨 Give choice: Let students write, draw, or choose emojis.
  • 🗂️ Collect or keep private: Some teachers collect check-ins; others let students keep them in folders or journals.
  • 🧩 Use for small groups: These check-ins can also help you decide who might need a quick one-on-one or a calming strategy.

Ready to Try It?

If you’re looking for a simple way to boost SEL and build student connection, the Editable Student Check-In Toolkit is ready to go. Just print or assign it in Google Slides — and you’ve got an easy-to-use tool that supports emotional wellness all year long.

👉 Grab the Check-In Toolkit on TPT

On Pinterest? Pin it for later!

https://pin.it/6oM2ZtFzb

I’d love to hear other ideas How do you help students manage their emotions?

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Helping Students Take Ownership: Why I Use Self-Reflection Forms in My Classroom

As teachers, we wear a lot of hats—educator, counselor, cheerleader, problem solver. And one of the most powerful things we can do for our students is help them develop the skills to reflect on their actions and grow from them.

That’s why I started using self-reflection forms as a regular part of my classroom routine.

🌱 Why Self-Reflection Matters

In the hustle of a school day, it’s easy to default to consequences when a student makes a poor choice. But I’ve learned that when students are given a safe, structured way to think about what happened, how it impacted others, and what they could do differently next time—they begin to take real ownership.

Self-reflection builds:

  • Emotional intelligence
  • Empathy
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Self-regulation

And let’s be honest: kids are way more likely to change their behavior when they feel understood and supported—not shamed.

🧠 What’s Included in the Self-Reflection Form

The form I use is simple, student-friendly, and developmentally appropriate for elementary students. It guides them through questions like:

  • What happened? (with space to draw or write)
  • How do you feel about it?
  • How did your actions affect others—and yourself?
  • What will you do next time?

I also include sample scenarios and a filled-in example so students know what thoughtful reflection looks like.

✨ You can grab the form I use in my classroom right here on my TPT page.

📚 When I Use It

Here are a few times the reflection form comes in handy:

  • After a disruption or conflict
  • During restorative conversations
  • In a calm-down corner
  • During a class meeting or check-in
  • As part of a behavior plan

Sometimes students fill it out on their own. Other times, we do it together. Either way, it creates space for learning and connection.

💡 Final Thoughts

Giving students the tools to reflect doesn’t just help them make better choices—it shows them that mistakes are part of learning, and they’re capable of growth.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, low-prep way to support social-emotional learning and accountability in your classroom, I hope you’ll give this form a try!

👉 Click here to grab the Student Self-Reflection Form on TPT or send me a message for a free sample!

Let me know if you want to hear more about fostering self-regulation in the classroom!

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How to Make Your Classroom Feel Like a Home Away From Home

Whether you’re setting up your classroom for the first time or are a seasoned teacher like me, chances are you spend a lot of time thinking about your space. After 20 years in the classroom, I’ve gone through it all—classroom themes, color-coded centers, inspirational posters, and anchor charts galore.

But lately, I’ve shifted my mindset. And after years of trial and error, I’ve discovered a style that finally feels just right.

Less is More

Yep, I’ve realized that the less I put on the walls, shelves, and tables, the more at peace I feel. My current aesthetic? Think cozy, calm, and intentional—a “home away from home.”

We spend a big chunk of our lives in our classrooms. So why not make it feel warm and welcoming, like a place where we actually want to be?

Need some inspiration? I’m sharing a few of the small changes I’ve made to help create a calm, homey environment—along with links to some of my favorite finds and ideas for organizing it all.

1. Warm, Cozy Lighting

Let’s be honest—those harsh fluorescent lights don’t exactly scream “comfort.” At home, we use soft lamps, warm tones, and ambient lighting. Why not bring that vibe into the classroom?

Try this:

Pro Tip: Assign a class job called “Electrician” to handle the lights. Kids LOVE it—especially with a remote control.

2. Community Supply Sharing

Community supplies not only reduce the clutter and “my stuff” drama, they also create a sense of shared responsibility and trust.

How I organize it:

💡 I’ve also used mason jars for markers and pencils—it’s both functional and decorative.

3. Ditch the Desk

I know, it sounds wild. But ditching my teacher desk was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I now use a floor table and comfy chair, which opens up the space and feels so much more inviting.

Need funding? Ask your principal or PTA! You’d be surprised what they’re willing to support if you just ask.

4. Cozy Classroom Touches

These small details make a big difference in the overall feel of your room:

  • Family Photo Wall: Use twine and mini clothespins to hang family photos students bring in.
  • Class Photographer Job: One student documents classroom moments. Print a few each month to add to a photo album that stays on the bookshelf.
  • Plants: They clean the air and add beauty. Assign a “Class Botanist” to care for them.
  • Area Rugs: Think home-style, not classroom-themed. A rug can define a space and soften the room.

Final Thoughts

Making your classroom feel like a second home doesn’t mean sacrificing professionalism or function—it means embracing simplicity and warmth to create a space where you and your students feel safe, calm, and inspired.

You deserve to enjoy the space you spend so much time in. And your students? They’ll feel the difference too.

Share your classroom styling tips with us- we love to share ideas!

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The One Daily Activity That Changed My Classroom Culture

What brings me the most joy as a teacher?
Building a strong community of learners.

In my opinion, you can’t expect students to do their best unless they feel safe, supported, and connected—not only to you, their teacher, but to each other. That’s why I spend a lot (like… A LOT) of time intentionally building a classroom community.

Because when your students trust, value, and respect each other, you set the stage for truly meaningful learning to happen.

💬 The Game-Changer: Question of the Day

There’s one activity I’ve used for years that completely shifts the tone of my classroom:
Question of the Day.

It’s one of our favorite moments. The students can’t wait to see what the question will be, and let’s be honest—they love any opportunity to talk about themselves. (Don’t we all?)

At the beginning of the school year—or whenever you start this routine—begin with light, low-stakes questions that are easy for everyone to answer. Think:

  • “What’s your favorite food?”
  • “If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?”

These simple prompts help students feel safe, ease social anxiety, and give everyone a voice in a supportive environment. As the year goes on, you can begin to ask more thoughtful, reflective, or community-focused questions that relate to what’s happening in the classroom.

🧠 Examples of Thoughtful Questions:

Here are some of my go-to prompts that spark discussion and build connection:

  • “What is something that currently brings you joy?”
  • “On a scale from 1 to 5 (1 = blah, 5 = AMAZING), how are you feeling today? Why?”
  • “Tell us something you don’t think any of us know about you.”
  • “Tell us something good—anything!”
  • “It’s lunch time and you notice someone sitting alone looking sad. What do you do?”
  • “What do you do when you’re feeling worried? Share a tip that helps you relax.”

You can also use these moments to invite students into the decision-making process:

“Yesterday was really noisy during our work cycle and many people were distracted. Do you have ideas that might help us stay focused today?”

Giving students ownership over their classroom experience empowers them to take responsibility and builds community in real time.

🪑 What It Looks Like in My Classroom

We gather together once a day in a circle. It’s important to make sure everyone can see each other and make eye contact—this small detail builds connection and encourages active listening.

We use a “talking ball” to take turns speaking. It can be any soft item that’s easy to pass and signals who has the floor.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Using a visual cue like this makes turn-taking smoother and keeps the routine consistent and respectful.

⭐ Key Takeaways

Even on the busiest days—when the schedule is full, time feels short, and you’re juggling a thousand priorities—make space for student voices. This practice will:

  • Help students feel seen and heard
  • Build peer empathy and understanding
  • Teach listening, turn-taking, and respectful conversation
  • And most importantly, create a classroom community that feels like a team

When students feel like they belong, everything else—academic engagement, behavior, motivation—gets easier.

So go ahead. Add a Question of the Day into your morning meeting, closing circle, or transition time.
It might just become your favorite part of the day, too.

I can help you get started: check out my TPT page for some free samples and question ideas!

Click Here for a full set of ready to go question cards