8 Classroom Management Tools for Your Teachers

Every teacher needs tools they can rely on to support them throughout their day-to-day tasks in the classroom.
By 
Katie Neumeier
 | 
July 20, 2022

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

Classroom Management is an essential part of every K-12 classroom. Not only does it help to build the foundation of an efficiently run physical space, but it also ensures that every student is receiving what they need in order to maximize learning and development.

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

quote icon

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

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About the Event

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

Register Now

About the Event

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

About the Presenter

Katherine Neumeier has spent the last 8 years in education working with Title I schools to build strong classroom practices and close academic gaps with English Language Learners and Special Populations. She has taught across multiple grade levels as well as coached educators, served as a reading specialist, and built an intervention program from the ground up. Integrating EdTech platforms as well as utilizing behavior management tools such as Liveschool have transformed and supported her role as an educator. She earned a bachelor's degree from St. Mary's University and a M.Ed from The University of St. Thomas.

Classroom Management is an essential part of every K-12 classroom. Not only does it help to build the foundation of an efficiently run physical space, but it also ensures that every student is receiving what they need in order to maximize learning and development.

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

All Reward Ideas for Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Snack Pack
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Silly School Leader
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Firebird of the Month
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Video Game Rewards
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Partner Work
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Family Feast
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Amazing Race
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Trip to the Treasure Box
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Glow Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Locker Choice
Grades 9-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch with an Admin
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Morning Meeting Leader
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Messenger
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Karaoke Night
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Final Fridays
Grades K-8
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Elementary School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Art Contest
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
School Spirit Day
Grades K-12
School
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snacks
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Toys
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch with an Admin
Grades K-8
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Cut the Principal’s Tie
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Messenger
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Podcast
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Movie Posters
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Line Leader
Grades K-5
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Career Day
Grades 3-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Family Feast
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Read Across America
Grades K-8
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Drop Lowest Quiz
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Snowball Fights (& Popsicles!)
Grades K-8
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY

All Event Ideas for Schools

All Free Reward Ideas for Schools

🎉
👑
🎁
School Assembly
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
🎉
👑
🎁
Camp Read Away
🎉
👑
🎁
Seating Choice
🎉
👑
🎁
Student Messenger
🎉
👑
🎁
Meet the Teacher
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Concert
🎉
👑
🎁
Play Games
🎉
👑
🎁
Tutor
🎉
👑
🎁
Art Contest
🎉
👑
🎁
House Induction
🎉
👑
🎁
Brain Break

All Reward Ideas for High School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Donate $1
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Positive Note or Call Home
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Amazing Race
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Virtual Talent Show. 🎤
Grades 3-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Firebird of the Month
Grades K-12
Student
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Game Week
Grades 9-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Tech Time
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Free Dress
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Ice Cream Sundae Party
Grades K-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
School Supplies & Merch
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Stairway Messages
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Holidays Around the World
Grades K-12
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Bonfire
Grades 9-12
Class/House
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Water Bottle Stickers
Grades 6-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Holiday Delivery
Grades K-12
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY

All Reward Ideas for Middle School Students

🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Reservations
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Uber by a Principal
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Glow Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Play Games
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Pie a Teacher
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Certificate of Achievement
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Lunch Fast Pass
Grades 3-8
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Loudspeaker Shoutout
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Get-to-Know-You Bingo
Grades 6-12
Class/House
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Sports Tickets
Grades 3-12
Student
Tangible
Deluxe
🎉
👑
🎁
Teacher Q&A
Grades K-12
Class/House
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Dress Up or Down Day
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Toys
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
STEM Field Day
Grades K-8
School
Event
Low Cost/DIY
🎉
👑
🎁
Meme Party
Grades 6-12
School
Event
Free
🎉
👑
🎁
Class Pet
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe

All Student Reward & Incentive Ideas

💰
🎨
Gift Cards
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Partner Work
Grades 3-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
School Assembly
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Toys
Grades K-8
Student
Tangible
Low Cost/DIY
💰
🎨
Extra Recess
Grades K-5
Class/House
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Class Pet
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Deluxe
💰
🎨
Seating Choice
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Create the Seating Chart
Grades 6-12
Student
Privilege
Free
💰
🎨
Free Dress
Grades K-12
Student
Privilege
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Classroom Management is an essential part of every K-12 classroom. Not only does it help to build the foundation of an efficiently run physical space, but it also ensures that every student is receiving what they need in order to maximize learning and development.

It goes without saying that teachers are the queens and kings of multi-tasking, but we are not alone when it comes to guaranteeing that our classrooms are run as smoothly and effectively as we need them to. 

Every teacher needs specific management tools that they can rely on to support them as they dive into their difficult day-to-day tasks in the classroom. 

Why Classroom Management Tools Are Important

Classroom management tools:

  • Simplify duties in the classroom
  • Create smooth processes
  • Engage and motivate learners
  • Save time and energy
  • Provide diverse options for every student

So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore these classroom management examples and hopefully add a few to your teacher tool belt that you can start using today!

The Ultimate List of Classroom Management Tools

We’ll cover tools for:

  • Attention-Grabbing 
  • Pacing
  • Noise Monitoring
  • Behavior Tracking
  • Incorporating Movement
  • Boosting Engagement
  • Differentiating Instruction
  • Fostering Collaboration

Together, these create active and hands-on learning experiences that students and teachers love.

1. For Attention-Grabbing

The Chime

What it is: One easy way to replace all the “1, 2, 3, eyes on me” and “bring it back” is with a chime or other sound effect. 

The most cost-effective chimes are found on amazon and they take minimal effort to incorporate into your day-to-day. 

If a physical chime is not something you are interested in using, try another sound effect like a noise button or clip from a specific song.

Pros: quick, consistent, easy to teach expectations around and implement, least invasive way to gain student attention

Cons: younger students may grow tired of the same sound effect, costs some money initially

2. For Pacing

Virtual Timers 

What it is: A great tool to help you have better pacing is a timer. This timer can either be physical or virtual and you can use it at literally any point in your day, regardless of activity. 

If you choose a physical option check out the Kadams Time Tracker on Amazon. 

I would opt for displaying a virtual timer on the board for students to view because this will help them to practice time management and self-regulation. 

A website that has various themed timers to choose from is Online Stopwatch – pictured below – but you could also find preset timers through a quick search on youtube.

classroom time examples

Pros: supports both teacher and student pacing and time-management, easy to implement, versatile, promotes self-regulation 

Cons: requires the teacher to manage, timer themes can be distracting to some learners (yoda, rockets, etc.)

3. Monitor Noise

Bouncy Balls

What it is: A fabulous tool to help you monitor the noise levels but also shift that responsibility from you to the students is called Bouncy Balls. 

Essentially it is a free, virtual noise tracker. You choose from several different themes, are able to manually set the desired nose level, and it even gives an audible sound effect if students pass the noise limit. 

Displaying Bouncy Balls on the board will help students monitor themselves and self-regulate their voices during partner or group work time. 

bouncy balls in classroom

Pros: free to use, versatile, shifts responsibility from teacher to students, promotes self-regulation and management, creates a calmer learning environment 

Cons: difficult for students who struggle with self-control, can be more distracting than helpful, requires a lot of practice and conversations with students around correct usage

4. Behavior Tracking

Liveschool

What it is: LiveSchool is a fantastic tool that helps you track disruptive behavior, communicate them with other key stakeholders in real-time, and provide ways to reward and reinforce positive student behavior. 

When displayed, you are able to see every student in a class on one screen. From there, you award them points as you observe pre-determined behaviors (like Being kind, showing integrity, staying on task, etc.) LiveSchool is user-friendly and has so many wonderful features for teachers, students, and families. It supports PBIS, token economy, and SEL initiatives.

student points for behavior tracking

Pros: works for any classroom K-12, tracks and rewards behaviors all in one system, facilitates parent/teacher communication, easy to navigate 

Cons: requires a subscription (even though it is well worth it), accompanying teacher phone app is only built out for the iPhone

5. Incorporating Movement

GoNoodle 

What it is: Movement, or brain breaks, should be incorporated periodically to give students a chance to refocus, digest information, and relax. 

A tool you could use for these brain breaks is the site GoNoodle. On the site, there are hundreds of different categorized videos that run from two to five minutes long and incorporate singing, dancing, workout routines, and breathing exercises. 

These brain breaks are assured to get your students moving and re-energized!

gonoodle

Pros: free account, no prep, offers a variety of options, videos are a perfect length of time, provides students with a break to refocus themselves 

Cons: only suitable for Elementary and Middle school students, requires a steady internet connection

6. Boosting Engagement

Stick Pick

What it is: Stick Pick is a tool you can use to put the fun back into answering questions. 

Within the app, students’ names are uploaded as virtual “popsicle sticks in a can” and as you pose questions, you would use the app to choose a student to answer. Stick Pick offers other features as well that support higher-order thinking and track responses.

If you are looking for a simpler version and use LiveSchool, the randomizer feature might be a better fit.

stick pick for classrooms

Pros: works K-12, virtual, offers varying levels of questions and question starters, monitors and tracks progress and participation

Cons: costs money to use, app is only for iPhone and iPad users, can be tricky to use with fidelity. 

7. Differentiating Instruction & Providing Feedback

Nearpod

What it is: Nearpod is an engaging, interactive platform that is used to create synchronous and asynchronous lessons that include videos, games, and quizzes in different formats. 

There are various features within the software to differentiate material and give feedback in real-time. The interactive tools, resources, and content are easy to navigate and manage!

nearpod platform

Pros: user friendly for any content area K-12, engaging for teachers and students, highly interactive, perfect for differentiation 

Cons: requires a subscription after a certain amount of data used, training on the platform and all of its features is recommended

8. Fostering Collaboration

Parlay

What it is: This tool is most commonly used to help create small groups and facilitate written or verbal discussions. 

Parlay’s functions can be used both in-person and online and will transform the way you approach and implement habits of discussion in your classroom. 

This tool will be most useful for middle or high school teachers but offers support to all teachers across every content area.

parlay ideas in the classroom

Pros: free to start using, student-driven, promotes deep and meaningful discussion, assessment and feedback tool

Cons: not the best fit for elementary students, requires a subscription after a certain point

Classroom Management Tools & Your School

In conclusion, there are a variety of options when it comes to tools you can use to support classroom management and student success.  Exploring these options will be of benefit to both you and your students this school year! 

Let’s Recap…

Problem: Grabbing Student Attention

  • Solution: The Chime
  • Where to Find It: Amazon

Problem: Managing Pacing

Problem: Noise Monitoring

Problem: Behavior Tracking

Problem: Incorporating Movement

Problem: Boosting Engagement

Problem: Differentiating Instruction

Problem: Fostering Collaboration

Happy teaching :)

You can also further your research by checking out our list of the best classroom management articles.

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Want more ideas?

Rewards that Rock 🎸 has 100+ rewards, incentives, and event ideas to build your school culture.
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