Mrs. Humphrey's Classroom Edit display name

Atkinson Elementary School
Portland, OR

Past projects 1

Tools to Help with Learning
Funded Dec 18, 2016
When we received the packages all the kids were excited and very curious. They were shocked that people we hadn't met donated money for "tools" for our classroom. While opening the packages the kids were saying "ooo" and "ahh." They were eager to try these new "tools." As a class we shared and created rules for our new "tools." Each table got a special "toolbox" for the new items. Children share using pencil grips, stress reliever fidgets and other tools. In addition to the table tools, we got some larger items that didn't fit on a table.
The beanbag and cushions are very popular. Every few days we select new students to use these tools. The beanbag provides a comfortable and special place for children to learn. The cushions do magical work. Children who were slouched over, easily distracted seem to have increased their attention and engagement.
Overall, we have noticed a huge difference in the students' ability to focus and attend to tasks longer. At times, students feelings can range and change throughout a day and the fidgets have helped with students get in the "green" zone ready to learn. They are so proud of themselves when they are able to select a tool that helps calm them down and assist in learning. Thank you for your generosity.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Humphrey

First graders work really hard everyday and could use a variety of tools to help them. I have children who demonstrate difficulties sitting at their desks and carpet time on a daily basis. Sensory tools can help children focus and attend to tasks. Giving students a tool can make the world of a difference and I am hoping that having a variety of tools available in the classroom will help engage my students. Bean bags provide a calm area where children can sit and read a book or listen to instruction. Providing an option other than a chair will help my students who are very active. Sitting on a traditional chair can be difficult for many students and I want to provide wobble chairs as another option. A slant board will help some of my students with appropriate placement and make writing more comfortable. Again, I have very active 1st graders who would benefit from fidgets, such as pencil toppers and tools that they can hold while listening to me read a story. We write daily and I have noticed that many of my students have an incorrect pencil grip while writing. It is important to teach them a helpful way to hold a pencil and the specific pencil grips I am asking for have been successful in my classroom before. In the past, our schools OT has lent them to us, but I have to return them at the end of the year. I would like to have our own supply in our classroom. Lastly, I meet with small reading groups everyday and would like to have stools around our reading table. A reading phone would be a nice addition to help with fluency, comprehension and accuracy.

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Mrs. Humphrey's Classroom Edit display name

Past projects 1

Tools to Help with Learning

About my class

About my class

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season! Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.

Mrs. Humphrey's Classroom Edit display name

Past projects 1

Tools to Help with Learning

About my class

About my class

Share this classroom

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season!
Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.