How to Make a Substitute Teaching Supply Bag
Substitute teaching can be scary. You may know nothing at all about the classroom you are about to walk into, and once you get there, you wish you had about 20 different things on hand. Having a magic bag you can pull almost anything out of may seem like the ultimate solution, and in a way it is. Most substitute teachers bring along bags, but many times the bags contain too little of what they need and too much of what they do not. Make your own ultimate supply bag, and never leave the house unprepared again.
Instructions
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Choose a bag that is right for you. Ensure that the bag is comfortable over your arm, as many bags can be too large and heavy, creating a strain on your shoulder. Also, pay mind to the professionalism of your bag. Children take cues regarding how to treat their new teacher from how he presents himself. Stick to a bag that is plain and comfortable and has many pockets in which to store things.
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Collect all materials you may need throughout your day. Pens, pencils, paper, rulers, calculators, tape and a miniature stapler are basics. Although most schools do not expect their substitutes to bring their own supplies, many are undersupplied. Also, instead of wasting time searching for supplies throughout the room, you have them at your disposal, which proves handy during those first few, often rushed, lessons. Always remember red pens for marking work.
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Organize any lesson plans you have in a binder, and keep them in your bag at all times. The smaller the amount of supplies needed in a lesson, the better. Try to weed out lessons that require too much room or movement throughout the classroom, as you never know what the layout of the classroom will be. Any lessons you come across that effectively combine entertainment and learning are keepers. Students often have an adverse reaction to new teachers, so providing them with a little bit of fun while still offering structure is exactly what you need to keep the classroom in order. Also, always carry a few books to read to the class, as they make for good filler if you are stuck with nothing to do.
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Include some stickers, stamps or anything else that can be used as a reward. Many classrooms employ the reward system as a behavior-management tool, and keeping with this routine can be very helpful.
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Remember yourself, and always bring along whatever items you need. Nutritional snacks, a bottle of water, your favorite book or a journal to write in all help you destress throughout your day. Hand lotion, a hairbrush and sanitary wipes can help you feel fresh the whole day through.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean out your bag consistently to avoid clutter.
Remove all odorous materials (such as fragrance, cigarettes or strong-smelling food), as children tend to be more sensitive to odors than adults.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit loveļ½„janine: Flickr.com
