As a former elementary PE and special education teacher with over 20 years of experience, I know firsthand the joys and challenges of managing a classroom. Creating a positive learning environment while keeping young students engaged and focused can feel like a balancing act. Here are my top 5 classroom management hacks that can help you streamline your day, minimize distractions, and maximize learning time. And, of course, one of these hacks features my invention, Training Ties—a tool that makes teaching shoe-tying a breeze!
1. Use Visual Cues for Smooth Transitions
Transitions between activities can often be a source of chaos in the classroom. Visual cues, like signs or images, can be a helpful way to communicate what’s expected without needing to raise your voice. Create a set of visuals or signals that represent common transitions, such as going from independent work to group activities or preparing to go outside for recess.
For example, you could use colored cards—blue for “quiet time,” green for “group work,” and red for “line up.” Hold up the corresponding card when it’s time to transition. This technique keeps students visually engaged and provides non-verbal prompts that reinforce behavior expectations.
2. Incorporate Movement Breaks
Young children have tons of energy, and asking them to sit still for long periods can lead to restlessness and distraction. Integrating quick, structured movement breaks into your schedule can help release pent-up energy and improve focus.
Try activities like “Simon Says,” short stretches, or even a one-minute dance party to reset their energy. You can schedule these breaks between subjects or any time you feel the class starting to lose focus. Not only does this make the classroom more enjoyable, but it also boosts productivity and helps children channel their energy more effectively.
3. Empower Kids with Training Ties to Teach Independence
One of the most common interruptions in elementary classrooms? Untied shoelaces! Training Ties, a product I developed, is a tool that makes teaching shoe-tying simple and quick. Instead of taking weeks to teach this life skill, I found that with Training Ties, over 90% of my students were able to tie their shoes after just one lesson!
Training Ties stay on the shoe, keeping laces tied throughout the day, so you don’t have to worry about repeated interruptions for tying laces. This tool fosters independence, builds confidence, and even makes recess safer as students are less likely to trip over untied laces. Give your students (and yourself) a break from constant shoe-tying—check out Training Ties here and see how this simple hack can transform your classroom routine.
4. Create Classroom Jobs to Promote Responsibility
Assigning classroom jobs can do wonders for creating a sense of ownership and responsibility among students. Classroom jobs, such as “line leader,” “equipment manager,” or “paper passer,” give students a role in the classroom environment and reduce your workload.
Rotate these jobs weekly to ensure each child gets a chance to contribute and learn different skills. You’ll find that students take pride in their tasks and that having extra hands to help with routine duties can free up time for you to focus on teaching.
5. Establish Clear Routines and Expectations
One of the best ways to manage a classroom is by setting clear, consistent routines. Students thrive on predictability, and knowing what to expect helps them feel secure and ready to learn. Whether it’s a morning greeting, a signal to quiet down, or a checklist for cleaning up, routines provide structure that students can rely on.
Be sure to communicate these routines and expectations regularly, especially at the beginning of the school year. You might even consider creating a visual schedule so students can see what’s coming next. Establishing these habits early on minimizes the need for repeated instructions and empowers students to take charge of their own behavior.
Classroom management doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. With the right strategies in place, you can create an organized, focused, and engaging environment that benefits both you and your students. Try these five hacks to see which ones work best for your classroom. And don’t forget—Training Ties can be a game-changer for making your life (and your students’ lives) a little easier when it comes to shoe-tying. Happy teaching!