# data[].attributes.headline
Visuals for Supporting Individuals with ASD

# data[].attributes.subject
Visuals for Supporting Individuals with ASD

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Dealing with Covid-19 - Resources for Special Educators, Therapists, & Families by Carole Zangari

# data[].attributes.headline
Marzano Highly Engaged Classroom Materials

# data[].attributes.subject
Marzano Highly Engaged Classroom Materials

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Highly Engaged Classroom Reproducibles

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled.

# data[].attributes.headline
Conducting Community Building Circles Online

# data[].attributes.subject
Conducting Community Building Circles Online

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Community Building Restorative Practices Circles at Home and Virtually

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Dr. Catlin Tucker is available for in-person and virtual speaking engagements. She offers a variety of professional learning opportunities to help educators universally design blended learning experiences and transition to sustainable student-centered workflows.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dr. Catlin Tucker - Transform Your Classroom with Blended Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Dr. Catlin Tucker is a leading Blended Learning expert who has helped teachers all over the world to personalize instruction and shift to sustainable student-centered workflows.

# data[].attributes.headline
Keeping Students Engaged in Virtual Learning

# data[].attributes.subject
Keeping Students Engaged in Virtual Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An interactive activity with ideas for instruction and assessment, based on the principles of Universal Design for Learning.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Power of the Morning Meeting: 5 Steps Toward Changing Your Classroom and School Culture

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Edutopia blogger Lisa Dabbs shares her own transformative experience with the Morning Meeting model and suggests five steps for integrating this practice into the classroom.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Edutopia is a free source of information, inspiration, and practical strategies for learning and teaching in preK-12 education. We are published by the George Lucas Educational Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
"A choice board is a graphic organizer that allows students to choose how they will learn a concept. The choice board below has nine squares. (There is no minimum or maximum, however nine seems to be a good number.) Inside each square is an activity. Students can choose one or several activities to complete. Choice boards can be organized so students need to finish one square before moving to the next, they can be random, or can be organized in a specific way. The level of difficulty of the activities can vary or stay consistent."

Tic-Tac-Toe Boards and Menus are two different types of choice boards.

"A menu offers students a way to make decisions about what they will do in order to meet class requirements. A menu could be for a single lesson, a week-long lesson, or even a month-long period of study. Once the teacher has decided on what the essential understandings and/or skills are, she/he can begin to create a menu."

"Tic-Tac-Toe choice boards give students the opportunity to participate in multiple tasks that allow them to practice skills they've learned in class or to demonstrate and extend their understanding of concepts. From the board, students either choose or are assigned three adjacent or diagonal tasks to complete.

Choice boards address student readiness, interest, or learning preferences. They are easily adapted to a subject area."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Choice Boards, Menus, & Tic-Tac-Toe by Sarah Dillard

# data[].attributes.headline
Link to access downloadable examples of visual supports specific to remote learning

# data[].attributes.subject
Link to access downloadable examples of visual supports specific to remote learning

# data[].attributes.headline
Link to Watson Institute for free social skill lessons

# data[].attributes.subject
Link to Watson Institute for free social skill lessons

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Special Education Social Skills PowerPoints - Watson Institute

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
PowerPoints on social skills in special education were developed in response to current social research in the field of autism spectrum disorders.

# data[].attributes.headline
Using Polling in Google Classroom to Support Engagement

# data[].attributes.subject
Using Polling in Google Classroom to Support Engagement

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We also recently updated our Android and iOS mobile apps. Teachers can now draft any type of post or reuse existing posts from any of their classes. Android users also now have a notifications center, where they can see what's new in their classes. Plus, Android teachers can post to multiple classes.

Get in touch on Google+ or Twitter and let us know how you're using polling in your class.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
4 ways to use polling in Google Classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We also recently updated our Android and iOS mobile apps. Teachers can now draft any type of post or reuse existing posts from any of their classes. Android users also now have a notifications center, where they can see what's new in their classes. Plus, Android teachers can post to multiple classes.

# data[].attributes.headline
Free Interactive Learning Menus & Choice Boards

# data[].attributes.subject
Free Interactive Learning Menus & Choice Boards

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Differentiate with Learning Menus and Choice Boards

"...at its core, differentiated instruction means addressing ways in which students vary as learners." - Carol Ann Tomlinson

[Tweet "Interactive Learning Menus with @GoogleforEdu #edtech#gsuiteedu"]

What Are Learning Menus?

IT'S ALL ABOUT CHOICE! Learning menus (aka choice boards) are a form of differentiated learning that gives students a menu or choice of learning activities. Learning menus and choice boards can be created in a variety of styles and mediums. They've been around for a long time and originated in a static, paper format. But with digital tools, we can bring the menus to life with interactivity and creation. Menus can be a simple list, a tic-tac-toe or bingo-style game, or get as creative and intricate as you like. Check out my Pinterest board for ideas.

Learning Menus Can Be Used with Any Age Group

I have found that menus and choice boards tend to be more popular among elementary teachers, but I used them in my middle school classroom, and now I use them in professional learning workshops with adults. Any grade level can use learning menus!

Learning Menus Can Be Used in Any Subject Area

Since learning menus are so flexible, they can easily be created and adapted for just about any subject area. So no excuses! Any teacher who is willing to try can make use of this student-centered strategy.

[Tweet "Any teacher who is willing to try can make use of this student-centered strategy. #edtech"]

Are Learning Menus Hyperdocs the Same Thing?

No, but they could be part of a Hyperdoc assignment. I love Hyperdocs! But these two are not one in the same. Keep in mind the definition of learning menus stated above. It is simply a menu of choices from which students can choose. Student choice is the big idea behind learning menus and choice boards.

A Hyperdoc is a complete packaged assignment that also meets some additional criteria. A Hyperdoc doesn't have to include choice, but it could. To learn more about Hyperdocs, visit their site or read the AMAZING book by Lisa Highfill, Sarah Landis, and Kelly Hilton.

Creating a Tic-Tac-Toe Learning Menu in Google Docs

One easy way to dip your toes into the learning menu water is a Tic-Tac-Toe menu. A Tic-Tac-Toe can be used for anything from short activities to more long-term projects, both assessment FOR learning (formative) and assessment OF learning (summative).

Below is an example of a Novel Unit Tic-Tac-Toe menu that I created as a summative project. It was created in Google Docs, nothing fancy, just a table and some color. Depending on how you want to use, you can add links, rubrics, images, video and more. (Click here to use my blank tic-tac-toe template.)
CLICK HERE to use the Novel Study Tic-Tac-Toe template. On mobile? CLICK HERE to make a copy.
Learning Menu Design

Remember when you are creating a learning menu to align it with your learning goals! First, I use the middle square as my non-negotiable, the one activity that I want every student to complete. This could be reading an article, watching a video, or in this case; every student will write a summary and add it to a collaborative Google Slide deck where they will also add links to their other projects. Everything in one place!

Some teachers also make the middle square a free space where students can propose their own ideas to demonstrate their learning. LOVE THIS IDEA!

I had some students who would try to find the easiest or fastest way to complete the tasks. But if you pay attention to the learning design, you can design it so that it gives choice and flexible learning paths, not just an easy completion grade.

I use the color to guide the learning design. Because I use the middle square as a non-negotiable, I control how they make the tic-tac-toe just a little bit more. Every student will do the middle square and one from the blue and one from the yellow. In this summative example, students are mostly creating, but in the example below, you will see how it can also work for activities that guide the learning.

Below is a professional learning example that I designed for teaching Google Chrome. As a trainer, I typically have very mixed groups in my training sessions (multiple grade levels, subject areas, and tech savviness). I usually address general skills, and apps and extensions that are applicable across all grade levels and subject areas as a whole group.

Then I move into an activity like the Chrome PD Tic-Tac-Toe learning menu to allow teachers to dig deeper into their own subject areas and grade levels AND move at a pace that is comfortable for their level and learning style.
CLICK HERE to use my Chrome PD Tic-Tac-Toe template. On mobile? CLICK HERE to make a copy of the template.
Other Types of Learning Menus

As I said, a tic-tac-toe is just one type of menu. It happens to be a favorite of mine because they are easy to design and are not too overwhelming. But I have used many other types of menus, and I have been curating ideas on this Learning Menu Pinterest Board.

Digital Menu for Student Creation with Google Slides by Tommy Spall

Below is a Google Slide example of a learning menu that takes on the look of a restaurant menu from my friend, Tommy Spall. Follow him @TommySpall. (You can thank me later!) Click here to make a copy of Tommy's template that includes linked slides to lots of Googley projects and room for you to make it your own. (If you are on mobile and having trouble with the template link, try this make a copy link.)

Professional Development BINGO Board by Amber Teamann and Melinda Miller

Another option is to make it a full out BINGO board, like in this example from my friend Amber Teamann and her collaborator Melinda Miller. (Follow them at @8Amber8 and @MMiller7571, and yes, you will thank me for this one, too!)

Amber and Melinda are both elementary school principals. They issued this BINGO PD Challenge to her teachers over the summer, and I thought it might inspire you with some other options for choice and challenges in your classroom or professional learning. You can learn more details about PD Bingo in Amber's blog post.

Using G Suite to Create Learning Menus

The possibilities are truly endless! Consider all the ways you could use G Suite to create learning menus and the extended activities and links. Try thinking of the ways you could create menus using these G Suite tools:

Google Docs

Google Slides

Google Drawings

Google Sheets

Google My Maps

Google Sites

How to Use Google Templates and Assign in Google Classroom

If you enjoyed this post, you will love the more in-depth look at the power of choice boards and more examples in this post and podcast episode.

© Shake Up Learning 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kasey Bell and Shake Up Learning with appropriate and specific direction to the original content on ShakeUpLearning.com. See: Copyright Policy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Interactive Learning Menus (Choice Boards) Using Google Docs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
I love learning menus, and it is one of my favorite ways to incorporate student choice and to differentiate learning. And with digital tools like G Suite for Education, it's super easy to make menus interactive, digital, and more dynamic! Digital Differentiation offers teachers and students many ways to reach all learners.

# data[].attributes.headline
Student Incentives for Distance Learning List

# data[].attributes.subject
Student Incentives for Distance Learning List

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Technology has made it easier to continue education even when it's not possible to physically be in the classroom. Distance learning, or eLearning, has been a mainstay of post-secondary education for many years now. It allows working adults to pursue a degree and remain employed. But for many teachers and students in elementary, middle, and high school, distance learning is not typically part of the school environment.

Distance Learning and PBIS

When circumstances force teachers and students out of the classroom and into an eLearning situation, it can be challenging to stay on track. Maintaining your PBIS initiative might feel impossible in times like these, but you CAN offer PBIS incentives during distance learning! PBIS Rewards makes it easy for you to reward your students anywhere - even when they're not in your physical classroom. Keep connected with your students, award points, and let your students redeem their earnings, all virtually!

Need some ideas for PBIS incentives to use with distance learning?

We've got you covered! You can use these incentive ideas to keep your students engaged and make the most of your time in the virtual classroom.

Some of these distance learning incentives are designed to work in a digital classroom environment, and their effectiveness may depend on your school's approach to eLearning. For example, "Lunch with the Assistant Principal" would be a virtual lunch meeting via Google Hangout, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, GoToMeeting... however you may be connecting with your students. As schools everywhere adjust and adapt to new methods of learning, distance learning incentives can help maintain a sense of togetherness within the school community.

Have an idea for PBIS incentives for distance learning? Share it and we'll add it to the list!

Students get to change their virtual backgrounds on Zoom.

Simply click on the arrow next to Start Video and change your virtual background or add your own image. Students will be motivated to log in to see their classmates' new backgrounds (Minecraft, lollipops, etc!)

Price: Free
Value:
Category: Privilege

Submitted by: Kelly Gordon (Flourtown)

Choose Video Conferencing Virtual Background

Student chooses the virtual background the teacher will use during video conferencing with the class

Price: Free

Category: Privilege

This was our end-of-summer party. I ordered Mickey Mouse ears (Girls & Boys), gift bags, and treats (cotton candy, cracker jacks, ring pops, Mickey Mouse Goldfish crackers, etc.). I delivered them to my students. If you have too many to deliver, you could mail the ears only.

I Zoom shared the 12 most exciting Disney Virtual rides... along with the parade and fireworks at the end. We had a wonderful day at the park. I gave trivia information in between rides and shows. There is also a video taking you into the park and on the monorail.

Everything was purchased on Amazon. About $5 a child for ears/treats. $1.50 per child for ears only.

Price: Bulk

Category: Privilege

Submitted by: Robin Gray (Friendship Ideal Academy)

Students can enter into a monthly drawing/raffle to win a Door Dash lunch delivery.

In distance learning, this can be delivered to their home, instead of to them at the school.

Price: $5 or More

Category: Tangible

Submitted by: Esperanza Soria (Wrenn Middle School, TX)

Send a laptop sticker to students with a personalized message. You can buy laptop stickers in bulk for as low as $5. Consider school branded laptop stickers.

If in distance learning, the sticker and message can be mailed to the student.

Price: Inexpensive
Value:
Category: Tangible

Submitted by: Jacquelin Camacho (Wheeling, IL)

Online Book Reading

Read a book online to your students. Have them choose from an approved selection.

Read, Wonder, and Learn! Favorite Authors & Illustrators Share Resources for Learning Anywhere - Spring 2020

Price: Free
Value:
Category: Privilege

Teachers can create personalized backgrounds for students based on the qualities they wish to recognize.

This is easy to do using Canva, a digital product/print creating platform that has a free upgrade for educators. Educators can use already created Zoom templates and individualize them to match the student.

Price: Free
Value:
Category: Recognition

Submitted by: Tiffany Garbiso (Santa Ana High School)

Student(s) can redeem this rewards and get a fun, silly, or energetic photo ( or video) with their friends that is shared by the teacher or school. This could even be shared via social media by the school, PBIS team, or teachers.

See example on Instagram

Price: Free
Value:
Category: Privilege

Submitted by: Mrs. Ashton, Rio Vista Elementary in Anaheim, CA

Students can have their picture/photo/video (if allowed by a parent/guardian) shared as a social media shout out on the school's social media account(s).

This would have to be verified by the teacher in order to have the student's name/picture/video release.

Price: Free
Value:
Category: Recognition

Submitted by: Samantha McBride (Houston, TX)

Spirit Week

Participate in a Spirit Day activity, i.e.:

Elementary:  Monday - Wear Pajamas, Tuesday - Crazy Hair, Wednesday - Crazy Socks, Thursday - Dress Like Your Teacher, Friday - Hat Day

Secondary: Monday - Wear Pajamas, Tuesday - Wear School Colors, Wednesday - Crazy Socks, Thursday - College Gear, Friday - Hat Day  Being on time for video lessons

Price: Free

Category: Privilege

Spoon Balancing Challenge

Students can challenge the teacher or other students with the spoon balancing challenge. Place the spoon on the bridge of your nose so that the handle is pointing down towards the floor and whoever can get the spoon to stay on their nose for the longest period of time wins!

In distance learning, this can be adjusted to be during a Zoom/Classroom video session.

Price: Free
Value:
Category: Privilege

Allow students add X test points for use on a future test of their choice.

Price: Free

Category: Privilege
Value:
Submitted by: Maria Price, Nimitz Sr High School, Houston, TX

Share Your Incentive for Distance Learning

Do you have an incentive idea for distance learning that would be a great addition to our list?
Share Your Idea
Here are some related articles you may find interesting:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This list of incentives for distance learning is a great asset for your PBIS program and virtual PBIS implementation. Have one to add? Share it.

# data[].attributes.headline
Quick tip on visuals for virtual learning

# data[].attributes.subject
Quick tip on visuals for virtual learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Quick Tip for Autism: Visuals for Virtual Learning - Linda Hodgdon

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This video is about students with autism and virtual learning with visual strategies. Transitioning to virtual Unfortunately, many teachers and families had a challenging beginning to virtual classrooms and overall life when the Covid 19 emergency began. But with another school year beginning, everyone has an opportunity to try again.

# data[].attributes.headline
Zone of Regulation materials for distance learning

# data[].attributes.subject
Zone of Regulation materials for distance learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
THE ZONES OF REGULATION: A SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING PATHWAY TO REGULATION

# data[].attributes.headline
Virtual, In-Person and Hybrid Learning Stories

# data[].attributes.subject
Virtual, In-Person and Hybrid Learning Stories

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
FREE Virtual Math Manipulatives for Chromebook and Computer Users

Base ten blocks, spinners, geoboards, fraction circles...These are all types of math manipulatives that teachers have readily available to help teach mathematical problem solving and reasoning. These physical objects help engage our learners through a hands-on approach. I love any and all hands-on activities.

However, these physical objects come with a price tag. They also require clean up time and a little detective work. You know, where have all of the purple bear counters disappeared to?

Once again, I love any and all hand-on activities. But I also love virtual manipulatives. Just to clarify, virtual manipulatives are different from interactives. Virtual manipulatives are open ended and do not prompt students to answer certain questions. YOU, the teacher, get to decide on the problems students answer using the manipulatives. YOU also can give students the opportunity to form their own mathematical problems using virtual manipulative representations. I like how these tools give students the ability to create mathematical representations and then write or type their thinking all on the same canvas. They even can save their work to their device to share with YOU and their peers.

Dreambox published THIS article that discusses how virtual manipulatives have "unique characteristics that go beyond the capabilities of physical manipulatives."

There are lots of iPad apps for math manipulatives (ex. Schoolkit Math). Some of the web tools mentioned below come in the form of iPad apps. But let's take a look at a few FREE web tools for our Chromebook/computer users.

Glencoe Math

One of my FAVORITE virtual manipulatives websites is Glencoe Math by McGraw Hill. I posted this quick little video on my Facebook page and Instagram account that got some action:

There are TONS of different manipulatives and story boards for PreK-8th grade.

Toy Theater

Toy Theater has a wonderful bank of virtual manipulatives with lots of options.

McGraw Hill

McGraw Hill has another small selection of virtual manipulatives.

Students can select to show a notepad that they can type in number sentences and various types of math problems.

The Math Learning Center

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

iTools has several easy to use math manipulatives for a variety of grade levels:

Taking it a Step Further:

Since virtual manipulatives give students the ability to save their work (you can always take screenshots if the app/website doesn't have a "save" option), have them take it a step further by sharing their work with one another. By engaging in collaborative learning, students are exposed to a variety of different ways of thinking. We all know there isn't just one way to solve a problem! Regardless of the type of device students use they can share their canvas by posting it to Google Classroom, Seesaw, a virtual wall (Padlet, BoardThing, Dotstorming), make a video to post to Flipgrid, add to a collaborative Google Slides presentation, upload to their blog/website, etc.. They could even add their creations to a digital notebook to document their learning throughout the year.

Like everything else we do, balance it key. Switch it up! Keep students engaged by using hands-on manipulatives one day and virtual manipulatives another day.

Follow me on Pinterest to get more techie ideas:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
FREE Virtual Math Manipulatives for Chromebook and Computer Users

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
FREE Virtual Math Manipulatives for Chromebook and Computer Users

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
I have compiled some of my favorite virtual math manipulative web apps in this one resource that I hope you and your students can use this year!

👆You can share that link in Google Classroom, Seesaw, your LMS, etc.

Students will be able to click on the laptops to visit five different virtual manipulative sites. The individual manipulatives that appear on the bookshelf are also hyperlinked to that specific tool.

Most of the manipulatives will work on any device with a web-browser.

Math Learning Center does provide Apple & Chrome store downloads. Also, they have recently launched a sharing option which allows educators to pose problems and investigations for students using an 8-character code or link! Students can even share their thinking with their teachers and classmates. Right now the sharing feature is available on Number Pieces, Number Rack, Number Line, Number Fames and Math Clock. More coming soon!

The link above automatically launches the slide in "present" mode. I will update the file if any of the tools stop working.
I have had a few requests for the iframe embed code for teachers to add to their LMS. Here it is for you to copy:
Need more digital math resources? Check out these resources in my TpT Store:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A Collection of Virtual Math Manipulatives

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
I have compiled some of my favorite virtual math manipulative web apps in this one resource that I hope you and your students can use this year! 👆You can share that link in Google Classroom, Seesaw, your LMS, etc. Students will be able to click on the laptops to visit five different virtual manipulative sites.

# data[].attributes.headline
Strategic Participation in Online Class Meetings

# data[].attributes.subject
Strategic Participation in Online Class Meetings

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Strategic Participation in Online Classes for Students with SSN

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
NEW stories added!

These coronavirus social stories explain in a non-threatening way about the COVID-19 / coronavirus, how to prevent / washing hands, and the possibility of school closures.

1) About COVID-19

2) Stopping Germs

2) Washing Hands

3) School Closures

4) Distance Learning

5) Being Flexible with School Work at Home

6) When Loved Ones are Sick

7) Quarantined Family Members

8) I am Sick

9) Wearing a Mask

10) Mask Expectations (including classroom)

11) Mask Expectations (not needed in classroom)

12) Things I can do to Stop Germs

Stories are available with symbol support (and the first 3 also available without symbol support)

Great social story for special education, inclusion, and any students who might be feeling concerned and anxious about the COVID-19 virus.

Need home packets? Search #homepackets to find printable 2 week lesson packets on math, reading and writing.

*Due to the nature of this situation, this resource can be shared with parents digitally over email, or any means necessary to help students!

_______

Widgit symbols used with permission.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
FREE Coronavirus / COVID-19 Social Stories

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NEW stories added!These coronavirus social stories explain in a non-threatening way about the COVID-19 / coronavirus, how to prevent / washing hands, and the possibility of school closures.1) About COVID-192) Stopping Germs2) Washing Hands3) School Closures4) Distance Learning5) Being Flexible with ...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Welcome to our Social Emotional Learning Activities page. Below you will find free resources - lessons, activities, and printables - in the following skill areas: Communication, Cooperation, Emotion Regulation, Empathy, Impulse Control, and Social Initiation.

These resources are age-appropriate for elementary and middle school students and are typically used in a classroom or a small group setting. And in most cases, if materials are required for the activity, they are items that you already have in your classroom or office.

As you will see below, many of the SEL activities and lesson plans include characters from our game-based, social emotional learning curriculum. And if you are using, or plan to use the online games, these activities will reinforce the learning that occurs during gameplay.

Note: You may reproduce or reuse these lessons with students via other platforms like Google Classroom as needed, and if appropriate, please share this page on your school website so other educators may also benefit. We add new lessons on a regular basis, so make sure to check back frequently.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
75 Free Social Emotional Learning Activities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to our Social Emotional Learning Activities page. Below you will find free resources - lessons, activities, and printables - in the following skill areas: Communication, Cooperation, Emotion Regulation, Empathy, Impulse Control, and Social Initiation. These resources are age-appropriate for elementary and middle school students and are typically used in a classroom or a small group setting.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
On this page, you will find 5 fun classroom incentives that you can use during your distant learning endeavors in grades K-2. With the FREE Virtual Rewards BUNDLE included below and a little prep time, you can implement these strategies as soon as today.

Watch the Video of this Content

Digital Learning: An Unexpected Journey

Our careers have shifted in unimaginable ways as our World has found itself in a pandemic. Weeks ago, I recall waking up to go to work (after a long winter of seldom snow-days) and counting down the days until Spring Break. Facebook was filled with memes that confirmed other Teachers were feeling my struggle. Little did any of us know that our Spring Break would turn into an extended, unwelcomed break from our classrooms and little learners.

Teachers have held their ground, though. We are all searching for new outlets to do the only thing we know how to do: teach little people. While I'm still contemplating on new ways to help my fellow teachers is this new area, I know one thing will still ring true: kids are kids and we need their engagement in our new, distant learning endeavors.

So, I've used some creativity to prepare some virtual classroom rewards that may help you. Keep in mind though, these tools are also extremely effective in the regular classroom. Even if you don't need them now, you can always plan to implement them in your regular classroom when we are blessed to be re-united with our schools again.

Virtual Classroom Rewards

These rewards are non-tangible and designed to spark joy among students in Kindergarten, First and Second Grade. As you will notice, they are very simple in nature. Their power lies within your ability to use your Priamary Teacher hype and make them magical.

Reward #1: Make-A-Masterpiece (Mystery Picture)

What it is: Have you ever played mystery picture? Basically, the pieces are hidden and you work to reveal an end product. The same is true for this strategy. You take parts of a picture and slowly add them together to show a masterpiece. It is engaging to see what the end product will be and curiosity is a big factor here!

How to use it: Remember, your hype is key! To use this strategy (that is very popular with online teaching ESL programs like VIPKid), tell your students what they are working to build. Slowly add pieces to your masterpiece at different points of your lesson. Use phrases like, "As soon as we finish this task, we will add another part of our masterpiece!"

What you'll get in the free BUNDLE are three masterpieces to get you started, all with an Ice-Cream theme that kids love!

Reward #2: The Giggle Box

I love this strategy because humor is highly engaging. As I mentioned in this article about Sight Word Engagement, humor is a top-engagement strategy for K-2 students. This specific strategy will be a student favorite, I promise!

What it is: Simply put, the Giggle Box is a box of jokes! I created this idea after realizing how much my students love jokes and the opportunity to laugh-out-loud. LOL!

How to use it: After some easy prep, your Giggle Box will be ready for action. Simply pull it out and tell students that it contains jokes so funny, they'll laugh their socks off. Use your "sacred jewel" voice- so students really feel how special it is. Think of good points in your online-teaching to pull it out (at the end of one task as a transition to another is perfect.) After reading the joke, laugh hysterically and watch your students respond in the same way.

In your free Virtual Classroom Rewards BUNDLE, you'll find all you need to make your own Giggle Box. It includes 26 of the funniest and most age-appropriate jokes I could find.

Reward #3: Silly Face Challenge

You'll have to be ready to work your face muscles on this one. Remember, humor is highly engaging and produces lasting memory. Your students will adore this easy trick!

What it is: Seemingly, it is a stack of cards with silly faces on them. But, with our magical Primary Teacher powers though, this stack of cards is a "challenge" for students to be silly and mirror those sill faces.

How to use it: Choose a task and tell students that upon completion, you will pull a Silly Face Challenge card. Use your hype language: "I bet you'll never be able to do this one!" and "Holy Moly! This one is hilarious!" Show the card and watch silly faces on your video-conference OR just make the face yourself as a reward to students who may be watching your pre-recorded videos. Encourage them to do it along with you and then laugh like a hyena to boost their enjoyment.

Reward #4: Library of Silly Sounds

What it is: Kids love crazy sounds. I've realized this through the years. So, I have created a library of Silly Sounds to share at different times of my lesson as a reward for engagement.

How to use it: At designated times in your lesson, choose a silly sound to share OR let a student choose a number. After hearing the sound, erupt with laughter (this is they hype they need) and then tell them you can't wait for the next one.

Technology Note: This reward requires a little tech, so be sure to do a little research before using. This freebie requires Microsoft PowerPoint. A quick Google search of "How to display PowerPoint in _______ (Zoom, Flipgrid, Google Classroom, etc.)" should help you get it up and running. Alternatively, you could also hook this file to an extra device (with speakers) and hold it during your video lesson. Just be sure the volume is high-enough for students to hear the sound.

Reward #5: Class Cheers Choice Board

Do you use classroom cheers in your regular classroom? I do and they can be a huge incentive to students. Digital Learning makes it a little different, but you can still use this simple strategy to encourage high-engagement.

What it is: Class cheers are a verbal and physical response prompted by the Teacher. I've noticed that they give students a welcomed opportunity to be loud and spontaneous. I teach my students a lot of cheers and when we do them together, we all feel connected and as part of a team. If you need to learn some class cheers, I have included a choice board of my top 12 favorite cheers and directions on how to use them.

How to use it: First of all, hype them up. Don't do a half-hearted display here. Make them feel special. Be excited about them and make it rewarding by allowing your students to pick a cheer that everyone will use. This is when your Class Cheer Choice Board will come in handy because each cheer is represented by a picture for easy student choice.

Get your FREE Virtual Rewards BUNDLE here!

Looks like you're ready to get going! My hope is that these free items help you during this difficult transition! Download the full bundle right here! (Click the image and go straight over to the product page.)

Join the Primary Teacher Friends Facebook Community!

We are looking for passionate educators just like you to collaborate with! We want you there! Follow this link and join today!

I hope you've found something here that will bring extra joy and peace to your classroom.

Toni is a self-proclaimed little people fanatic. She loves all things Primary Education and thrives on opportunities to provide fellow Teachers with actionable training, resources and advice. Her biggest contribution to the field of education is her undying belief that every child can learn and achieve with a caring advocate to guide them. As Educators have transformed her life, she now works to transform the lives of others through the same passageway. You can find more articles like this on her blog and keep up with her latest training videos on the Teacher Toni Facebook page.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Virtual Classroom Rewards for K-2: How to Engage Students in Distance Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
On this page, you will find 5 fun classroom incentives that you can use during your distant learning endeavors in grades K-2. With the FREE Virtual Rewards BUNDLE included below and a little prep time, you can implement these strategies as soon as today.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Fun still matters! 🎉

One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it's a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

That hasn't changed. How many of us have had a Zoom party with our friends? Done a fitness lesson over video? Watched a live concert? As human beings, we love connecting with others. Add that to the list of things that Covid-19 can't change.

We have to think outside the box about how we create celebrations and rewards for our students' hard work. We will need to get creative and use digital tools to replicate some of the magic of our in-person live events. We will need to enlist parents, to help bring important celebrations home to students in a meaningful way.

At the end of the day, a big part of what makes a school celebration fun is the opportunity to see trusted adults letting loose and having fun. Students light up to see their Principal with a pie on their face. Or when a favorite teacher attempts a favorite TikTok dance. Our imagination has always been key to celebrating progress in a way that inspires students. That's still true today.

Let's look at 10 ideas you and your team can put into practice to make this time as fun and rewarding as possible for students. Rewards with an asterisk (*) have a financial cost - the rest can be done for free or on a low budget:

This reward can be run for a homeroom, a grade, a house, or an entire school. Plan an agenda that will be fun for students, like:

Invite students to wear school or House colors

Sing your school song or House chants

Fun updates or shoutouts from designated school leaders

Do a dance together (Not sure? Ask a student what's popular!)

Remember - short and sweet is better than an awkward ending. Leave students excited for the next party with a fun, planned agenda.

2. Lunch with Teacher 👋🏼 ‍

Technology gives us the amazing opportunity to have a 1:1, or small group, lunch with students. Students can redeem this reward to have lunch with a favorite teacher or school leader over video chat.

Use this time to build or maintain your relationship.

Learn about how students are spending their time - favorite music, video games, or hobbies.

Share age-appropriate updates on how you are adjusting to more time at home.

Bonus: If your budget allows, this reward can include food delivered to the student!

By now, you have probably seen amazing videos of "drive by" birthday parties and distance celebrations. There are many safe options for reconnecting with students face-to-face:

Create a caravan of teachers to parade by students' homes with music, costumes, or just a big smile and wave.

Have a distanced visit to a student's home to create some personal connection.

If your team includes a natural performer, you can even create a reward for an in-person song or dance.

4*. Video Game Rewards 🎮

We can't deny it - video games are part of our students' lives. Many video games have "bucks" that students can use to redeem new rewards or accessories in the game. Fortnite V-Bucks are one of the most in-demand with students today. You can also ask your students for what games they love.

5*. Food Delivery Gift Cards 🍔

If your community has access to companies like Postmates, UberEats, and Doordash, these companies offer gift cards that can be a great way to reward students with their favorite restaurants during a time that they may have less ability to dine in. If your community has favorite restaurants, bookstores, or toy stores, these are also great opportunities.

6*. Raffle 🎟️

Raffles are a great way to reward students. In a raffle, the more tickets a student buys, the better their chances of winning! Here are things to consider when raffling:

Survey students for exciting items. Big ticket items like an iPad Mini or popular headphones can draw student excitement.

Consider recruiting support from local businesses to purchase the items.

Market your raffle continuously on social media. Encourage teachers to mention the raffle during check-ins and communications with students.

When it's time to raffle the items, make a big deal of it! A great approach is to create a video of drawing the winner so that every student can take part in the suspense.

7*. Creativity Care Package 🎨

This is a stressful time for students, and a care package can give them the tools to release their energy. Think about constructive toys or supplies like puzzles, sidewalk chalk, or cards. Encourage students to share a picture of what they do with their creativity!

8. Social Media Takeover 💁🏽

Invite a student to create content to share on your official school social media! There are endless ways to use this reward - here are just a few ideas:

An age-appropriate TikTok challenge.

Emcee your virtual party.

Provide a student with school announcements; let them create a video that puts their personal spin on it!

A virtual talent show can be conducted live, or, even better, over social media! Create a hashtag for students and prompts for them to share, like...

Sing their favorite song.

Perform a dance.

Show off a martial arts move.

10. Silly School Leader 😂

This reward is not for the faint-of-heart! With that said, there's something magical about a trusted adult doing something truly silly for students to enjoy. Here are some of the best versions we've seen:

Let a student pick a TikTok dance to do in front of the whole school.

Let a student pick a wacky haircut or hair color to debut - live!

Let a student write a funny (and appropriate!) message to be recorded and shared with the school.

More Tips for Virtual Rewards

Create a process for how rewards will be redeemed using LiveSchool points. For example:

Rewards are redeemable every other Friday.

Two days before (Wednesday), the Assistant Principal will share an update with the latest rewards options available.

One day before (Thursday), students should email their homeroom teacher with their reward selection!

You can determine pricing by reviewing student points balances. You can use student bank account balances to determine appropriate prices

In LiveSchool, you can...

And of course, plan for the logistics of your reward. A helpful approach: Who? What? When? Where? How? Coordinate with your team for a smooth and engaging experience!

Share Your Ideas!

We'd love to hear from you - how are you maintaining fun and celebration during distance learning? Share your ideas with @whyliveschool!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Reward & Incentive Ideas for Distance Learning | Article

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
One of the biggest tragedies of Covid-19 is the fun that students will not get to have with trusted adults. There is no greater feeling than weeks of hard work capped off with a huge celebration. Whether it's a field trip, a dance, a House party, or whatever makes your school unique, we all love to have fun with our students.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Enter names, spin wheel to pick a random winner. Customize look and feel, save and share wheels.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Social Stories for Young and Old on Covid 19 - HMEA's Autism Resource Central

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Facebook page opens in new window Twitter page opens in new window Instagram page opens in new window Linkedin page opens in new window YouTube page opens in new window

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Rules of the Digital Classroom: Proper Etiquette for Online Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get access to files anywhere through secure cloud storage and file backup for your photos, videos, files and more with Google Drive.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Distance Learning & Hyrid Matrix Examples