An Apple a Day Linky: Classroom Management

I'm linking up with my bloggy buddy, Leigh, from The Applicious Teacher today to discuss Classroom Management.

I've created a new classroom management plan to match my owl theme this year, so I'll share that in a bit.  But, first thing's first.  I start off the year trying to build a community of Bucket Fillers.  I have a Bucket Filler Brigade unit available on TPT.  We read several Bucket Filler books and create a class anchor chart about Bucket Fillers vs. Bucket Dippers.  

All of the anchor chart parts are available in my packet. 

We also participate in some brainstorming activities and role play scenarios (also included in the packet):

 We complete a bucket filler/bucket dipper sort and students create their own sort with a bucket craftivity.

After we build this understanding of bucket fillers and bucket dippers, the rest of the year is centered around this concept.  I redirect student choices by reminding them that we are bucket fillers.  They continually remind each other of this concept, too.  You can purchase my Bucket Filler Brigade packet here:

The second aspect of my classroom management plan involves my OwlStanding behavior Clip Chart system (just created to match my owl theme this year)!

It is similar to a standard clip chart and features both a monthly and weekly behavior tracking log for parents to sign.  Students simply color in where they clipped for the day, and there is a parent explanation sheet to remind parents what each color stands for.  Students who don't land on orange, yellow or pink (pinkish red) receive a treat from the prize box at the end of the month.  I also let students pick a prize if they clip all the way up to the top of the chart!

The clip chart can be purchased {HERE}!

 

Plus, I've created OWL binders to help manage my classroom this year.  These are take home notebooks (three ring binders) where everything is stored for parents and students to have homework resources, school calendar and lunch menu, homework, reading log, room for parent notes, behavior tracking sheet, and more.  You can purchase them {Here}!

They also include an owl newsletter which is editable PLUS 12 monthly themed newsletter which are also editable.

So that, in a nutshell, is how I plan to keep my classroom running smoothly this coming school year.  Now go link up with Leigh and inspire us with YOUR ideas! :)