Teacher’s To-Do List For Creating Safe Space In Classroom
Creating a safe space in the classroom is essential for students well being and vital to their learning. Some students may not feel safe anywhere but school. If they are struggling to feel safe, it’s unlikely that they’ll have the mental energy to focus on their studies. Supportive learning environment are ones designed to develop students into responsible, safe, and resilient adults. So how do we go about constructing these environments for students to thrive?
Establishing Connections
The first step to transforming your classroom into a safe space is to know your students, their communities, and backgrounds. Studies show that forming these bonds and positive impressions with the students can engage them to perform well academically. Creating those relationships can transform a student’s day and create a safe space in the classroom.
An inclusive culture allows students to feel respected and valued in the classroom. We need to show that we care about how a student’s day is going. That way, they feel more inclined to engage with the material, voice their opinions and have a positive outlook on their education.
Having a check-in chart can help students assess their own feelings. It also gives you a better idea of how ready they are to learn. Opening up to an adult about academic struggles, bullying or problems at home can be extremely difficult. So once you’ve established that you have a vested interest in your student’s well being, they will be more likely to come to you with their issues.
Create your Safe Space Classroom
Writing stories, drawing, painting, and playing instruments not only provides a creative outlet for students but also fosters a sense of connection. When kids feel they can share their art in a classroom setting, they’re more confident and comfortable. This creates safe spaces in the classrooms.
Daily creative breaks allow students to express their feelings and become more at ease in their surroundings. It’s also a great idea to start class projects that the kids can work on creating together, that you can also use to display in the classroom. Students should be involved in choosing whatever medium works best for them in their classroom.
An Inviting Environment
Sitting at a desk all day can seem sterile and stiff to some students. Consider using alternative seating areas like bean bags, stools, cushions, or even the floor. Creating a physically comfortable environment can translate to more motivated and attentive kids. Use resources like Pinterest and Instagram to search for new ways to make your classroom more visually dynamic and exciting. The learning environment that you create can go a long way in making students feel safe, welcomed and free to be themselves.
Creating a safe space in your classroom may seem like a major challenge. There are many proactive steps we can take toward creating these safe spaces for our students.
How do you build supportive space in your classroom? Tweet us at @pikmykid and let us know how your school is fostering these types of environments.
