I am a huge advocate for a calm classroom environment. I want students to feel like the classroom is a safe place to learn and grow. A simple way I create this is by using videos I have found online!
When is the best time to use videos like these?
Have one playing when:
- Students enter the classroom
- Transition times
- After a high-energy activity (PE, recess, class game)
- Dismissal time
- During tests or independent work time
What are the benefits of these videos?
I get complimented frequently about how calm and quiet my classroom is. Students have plenty of opportunities to move and speak, of course, but we are overall a quiet room. The videos create a calm environment which is beneficial to both the students and me. The light music in the background also helps to eliminate side conversations. The images on the screen are soothing and give students something to focus on when they need a little break.
Do students get distracted by the videos?
If it’s a brand-new video, students may watch a few minutes just to see what it is. Most of the videos are the same image or loop the same sequence over and over, so students stop watching once they get an idea of what it is.
Are they able to focus?
Yes! I have found that a little background noise not only helps them focus, but it reduces other distractions as well. Students will request a video if I have forgotten to start one.
Do students ever fall asleep?
Every now and then. I mostly use these videos to help students lower their energy levels and focus. If they are already tired, we get up and take movement breaks. These are perfect to play at the end of the day during dismissal time. They help my students pack up and exit quietly, and they also help my bus group enter quietly.
Disclaimer: Some of these videos have ads, but most are at the beginning. I usually mute it until the ad is over and then turn off annotations by clicking the “settings” icon. If random adds start popping up in the middle of our favorite videos, I’ll stop using that one and search for something similar to it. : )
Videos for warmer weather:
Videos for colder weather:
Videos for anytime:
What videos do you love to play in your classroom? I’m always looking for new ones, so please share in the comments below!
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