A smooth morning sets the tone for the entire school day. If you'r looking for a simple, low-prep way to welcome students and build independence, then morning bins adr a game-changer. In this post I will show you a quick guide to setting up your quiet morning bin routine so that it runs itself--day after day!
Create a Clear, Visual System for Your Morning Quiet Bins
Start with two things:
1. A Display Board that shows each bin number and the student names assigned to that bin.2. A designated space--cubbies, shelves or a table--to store the actual bins.
When students walk in, they simpley check the chart, grab the matching bin, and get started.
Group Students for Easy Collaboration
Pair students in groups of two. I you have an uneven number or a larger class, groups of three work perfectly. Edit your mane tags, group students strategically, and assign ea h group to a bin.
Build Your Board
Place bin numbers across the top of your chart. under each number, list the students in that group. This lets students see their bin number and partners with one quick glance--no confusion, no questions.
Number Your Bins
Once your chart is ready, label your physical bins with matching numbers. The consistent labeling connects the board, the bins, and the routine so that student operate independently from day one.
Fill Your Bins
Place the task cards in your bins strategically. At first, use cards that are super simple for all students and only need a super brief 'how-to' explanation that works for the whole class.
Also place dry-erase markers and erasers for each student in a pencil case for quick and easy organization.
The Routine
At this point everything is super simple. Explain your behavior expectations during bin usage, and explain to kids how to glance at the board and match their bin to their number and how to know who their partner is. Create a system so that kids know who will pick up the bin and who will put it back, making sure that everyone understands that they are responsible to clean up all their materials. Kids love to work on the rug, floor, and sometimes even at tables. Decide where each group will work, and let them know.
Once you have explained everything, let the kids have a run at it. Give yourself a tad extra time when first starting this routine, but within a week, it should be smooth rolling! I suggest that you switch out tasks on a weekly basis, but keep partners the same for about 1 month.
Need a Spanish Morning Quiet Bin Set?
If you are looking for a set so that you can get started, then check out this resource on TpT! It has everything that you need to get started, including a digital display board. Even if you are a pro at using morning bins, this set has some fun stuff for you, including printables!
CLICK HERE to see the set in my Teachers pay Teachers store today!
I hope you love this system as much as I do!
