Help me give my students whiteboard markers to create a calming space to create in.
FULLY FUNDED! Mr. Kaplan's classroom raised $329
This project is fully funded
Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Project
Whiteboard markers offer a surprisingly versatile tool for fostering a calming classroom environment. Beyond their traditional use for instruction, they can facilitate creative expression and mindfulness. One effective approach is to dedicate a portion of the whiteboard or provide individual mini-whiteboards for "calm down drawing." Students can use the markers to doodle, create abstract designs, or draw images that represent positive emotions. The act of drawing, especially when focused on simple, repetitive patterns, can be incredibly grounding, allowing students to channel their energy and reduce stress. The smooth glide of the marker and the ease of erasing also provide a sense of control and freedom, which can be particularly beneficial for anxious students.
Teachers can draw simple mandalas or geometric patterns on the board, inviting students to trace or color them in with different colored markers.
This activity encourages focused attention and promotes a sense of tranquility. Additionally, simple breathing exercises can be visually represented on the whiteboard. For example, drawing a line that slowly rises and falls can help students visualize and regulate their breath. Using different colors to represent inhale and exhale can heighten the sensory experience, making the exercise more engaging and effective. By incorporating these visual cues, teachers can create a calming atmosphere and provide students with tangible tools for self-regulation.
A designated "calm corner" in the classroom could feature a large whiteboard where students can contribute to a collective mural. This could involve drawing nature scenes, abstract patterns, or positive affirmations. The shared creative experience can promote a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. By integrating these creative and mindful practices into the classroom routine, whiteboard markers can become a valuable asset in creating a more peaceful and supportive learning environment.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Kaplan and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
