A classroom whose walls are well-planned, well-organized, and colorful is an inviting classroom for students beginning the school year. Classroom decorations not only make white walls look fun, they also divide the classroom space into different learning areas. Here are a few ideas for creative wall decorations for the holidays or for back to school classroom set up.
Background Theme Paper
Use wallpaper or theme paper to create a mood or complement a unit in science or social studies. Make a geology corner with rock wallpaper and a cabinet full of rock samples. In the spring, use garden paper to set off a butterfly rearing area and growing plants.
Wall Decals for the Classroom Reading Area
Removable wall decals are ideal for an elementary school reading nook. For those who can’t paint on the walls, or for those who find painting difficult, decals are a great wall art alternative. Choose from numerous characters from children’s books, or create a garden, jungle, or underwater scene. Paint and wallpaper stores are a good place to find these decals.
Online Auctions or Garage Sales
Bulk online auctions or garage sales can be a good source of creative classroom décor. Paper, posters, and other flat items are often sold in bulk. For example, purchase a group of old records, tapes, and CDs for wall decorations to enhance an area where the children listen to books.
Posters From Government and Nonprofit Agencies
One cheap source of wall art is the poster. There are some beautiful posters out there, and many of them are free. Source printable posters or order them by mail. Local and national government agencies often have health and science posters. Nonprofits have posters relevant to their cause, such as free sign language posters from organizations that advocate for the deaf.
The Gallery of Children’s Art
One beautiful decoration is made by the children themselves. As the year progresses, set aside a bulletin board, glass cabinet, or other space to create a gallery of the children’s art. If possible, design this as a gallery. Highlight it with lights and create a sign that goes on top. Label the children’s art work with their name and the title of the work.
Fall, Halloween, Christmas, and Spring Decorations
While teacher stores are good sources of quality seasonal decorations, try party stores for more options. Party stores have Halloween and Christmas backdrops and wall decorations and also sell decorations for holidays like Chinese New Year and Groundhog Day. To save on the cost of decorations, purchase them after the holiday season has ended and save them for next year.
Creating a warm classroom environment is important at back to school time and at any time of the year. Walls that highlight student interests encourage students to engage with class units. Focusing on student art and writing makes students proud to be part of their own art gallery. A well-decorated classroom creates a visually stimulating environment where children to learn.
Tricia Edgar - Tricia Edgar is a gardener, environmental educator, and science writer from the Pacific Northwest.
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