10 Classroom Essentials I Can’t Teach Without

There are so many great tools out there that can make our teaching easier and learning more fun for our students. Recently, a teacher friend asked me, "If you had to start over with a completely empty classroom, what would you get first?" It got me thinking about the things in my classroom I really can’t teach without. Here are 10 of my favorites:

1. Paddle Whiteboards

I love my paddle whiteboards. They are a fun way to review, check for understanding, and let students jot down ideas. I picked my original set up at Dollar Tree but they are also available on Amazon.

2. Small Whiteboard Markers with Built-In Erasers

With those whiteboards, you need an easy way for students to write. I love these skinny whiteboard markers because they are affordable, come with their own eraser, and are the same width as a pencil, helping students practice their pencil grip. They come in various styles and colors. I buy mine from Amazon.

3. Lap Desks with Legs

I love my lap desks. They give students the flexibility to choose where they will work while providing a good surface. We use these during our literacy block for writing. I also like to use these at snack time to keep tables clear so I can set up the next activity while my students eat. I’ve seen some at Dollarama, but I bought mine at Michaels because they are better quality and last longer. They often go on sale. Available at Michaels

4. Veggie Trays

Okay, this one sounds odd, but they are very useful. Empty vegetable trays are great for sorting activities, storing loose parts for story workshops and math time, and organizing crafting materials for art projects. You can find uncovered ones at the dollar store or on Amazon in various colors. My favorite ones are the clear ones with lids.

5. Pocket Charts

This one might feel a little obvious, but I use pocket charts every day with my students. We love to play games with them, like my mitten game, and they are great for displaying words and playing with sentences. Some of mine came from Scholastic bonus cash, and others I bought off Amazon.

• Small for daily schedules: Amazon

• Tent style for small group learning: Amazon

• Large for centers and games: Amazon

6. Cafeteria Trays

Early in my career, I was given a set of these. We use them all the time. They keep messes off tables, help distribute materials quickly, and provide a surface for drying projects. Check them out on Amazon

7. Buttons, Beads, Gems, and Shiny Things

There are many great manipulatives out there, but these have always been a favorite in my class. They work as counters, bingo chips, and loose parts. I have an extensive collection, with some from thrift stores and others from the dollar store. Dollar Tree is great for these kinds of things.

Tip: Every September, I send out a letter to parents asking for beads, buttons, gems, and old costume jewelry, along with other items they might have lying around the house. It’s a great way to build your collection without spending any money.

8. Scrapbook Storage Bins

Storing all my math and literacy centers has always been a challenge. I started using these bins a few years ago, and they work like magic. They keep all the pieces together and make cleanup easy for students.

• Photo holder style for card sets: Available at Michaels

• 12x12 style for games: Available at Michaels

Pro tip: Michaels offers a teacher discount on all your purchases! Bring your teaching license and school ID to get the deal.

9. Magnetic Rolling Whiteboard with Hooks and Storage

This one is on the pricey side, but I don’t know if I could teach without one. They are great for carpet time instruction, literacy and math centers, and holding various teaching tools. Unlike mounted whiteboards, they are low and at students' level, making lessons more interactive.

• Available on Scholastic

• Also available on Staples

Pro tip: If you belong to the Scholastic book club you can earn free credits to buy things with Scholastics. This would be one way to get one of these for less!

10. Dry Erase Vinyl Circles

I have tried many ways to label tables and mark important spots in my room, but these are my favorite. They last all year (years if you treat them well) and are removable if you need to change things up. I have some at my teaching table that students can write on during lessons, and I use them to designate table colors to make it easier for young students to find their spots. One also marks the beginning of our lineup at the door. You can make your own if you have a Cricut, or buy a premade set. Find them on Amazon

Bonus: Bluetooth Speaker with Microphone and Disco Lights

Okay, so I guess I could live without this one, but I love using it! I turn on some music and the disco ball for spontaneous dance parties. We use the microphones for presentations, and when we need a quiet break, I turn on the light with some classical music. Students love to lie down and watch the lights move on the ceiling. These are so much fun. Mine is the Party Rocker from London Drugs, but this one is similar: Amazon

If you're thinking about buying any of these items on Amazon, I would really appreciate it if you used the links in this blog post. When you do, I get a small credit at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

So what did I learn at school today? My classroom is full of great tools I’ve collected over the years, but if I had to start over, I could make do with the items on this list and a good printer. 😊

What are your must-have classroom items? What would be the first things you bought if you had to start over?