There are so many things to consider when planning a self-contained classroom layout. It’s a good idea to consider these things BEFORE moving things around your classroom. If you don’t, that’s okay. Once you get to know your kids, you will have a better idea of what works.  It’s also a good idea to keep the mindset that your classroom layout will change. Try not to get too comfortable with how your classroom layout looks. There is a high probability that you will have to pivot and reorganize your layout. So without further ado, Here is a list of things you should consider when planning your classroom layout.
Where are the electrical outlets?
There are many reasons why you need to know where the electrical outlets are. First of all, you need to know where the classroom phone plugs in. I like to put my teacher desk by the phone. Next, you need a place to charge student iPads or laptops. Finally, you may need an outlet easily accessible to plug in your laminator or glue gun for prepping materials.
How and Where will I store supplies?
Deciding whether you want students to have individual supplies or students and staff to share all supplies in a central location is essential. I like having a game-plan before school on how the supplies will be organized. Sometimes it’s vital to take student behavior into account. If I have students who throw objects when frustrated, I like to keep supplies out of reach until needed. These magnetic storage pockets are perfect to keep supplies accessible but out of reach (affiliate link). Â
How many stations/centers do I need?
Center time is a major part of the day in a self-contained classroom. First, you should try to group students by ability level. Then, determine how many paraprofessionals you have. Finally, you can determine how many independent centers you will need. For example, if you have 5 groups of students with 3 paraprofessionals, you could have the following stations: 3 para-run stations, 1 teacher run station, and 1 independent station. Â
where will students keep personal items?
Will they keep their things in their desks? In organizers on top of their desks? In their cubbies? One year my classroom didn’t have cubbies, so I created my own by zip tieing milk crates together.
How Will I organize data?
There are many ways to organize data and you will find what works for you. There is no right or wrong way, but make sure you have a system in place! You could keep data sheets on a clipboard and organize by student or goal area. Furthermore, you could create data binders for each student. Finally, digital data might be for you! Check out my guide on how to take data using google forms by clicking the button below. Â
Where will students take a break?
There are two main options for a break area. In the past, I have had students take a break in their own desk area. They had a bin of reinforcers available to them in their individual spot. This was especially true during Covid. It might also be a good idea to have a classroom relax area with cozy chairs and leisure items. In order to reduce clutter in the classroom, create a choice board of available break items. Then, keep the items in a locked cabinet. Only retrieve the items when a student requests.
One of my students’ favorite parts of our relaxation area is the mermaid fabric wall. Check out this blog post that gives you ideas for a sensory wall.
Do I need a "safe spot" in my classroom?
If you teach students with significant behaviors, it is important to think about a “safe spot” in your classroom. This is different than the relaxation area for students and is only utilized to keep students and staff safe. Think about if you need to do a restraint (which is used as a last resort) or a student needs a small, quiet location that is free of objects and furniture that could be dangerous. This area does not need to be big, but I usually scope out a flat, blank wall. A flat, blank wall is necessary if you need to provide a safety restraint and it’s also a non-stimulating area for a student to go to when they are dysregulated.
Where do I need visuals and schedules displayed?
A self-contained classroom requires many visuals and visual schedules to run effectively. It’s vital to keep in mind that we only want to display FUNCTIONAL visuals. Too many visuals are almost as detrimental as not enough visuals. Let’s think about what visuals you need. Most visual schedules should be posted where the student completes the activity. For example, the morning routine schedule should be close to the classroom entrance. Some classrooms keep individual schedules at a central location for students to come to at each transition. However, you might want to keep each student’s schedule at their desk. Here are some examples of visuals in a self-contained classroom.
- individual schedules
- class schedule
- morning routine visuals
- dismissal routine visuals
- handwashing routine visuals
- toileting routine visuals
- independent work routine visuals
- behavior support visuals
If you’re looking to add some of these visuals to your classroom layout quickly, check out some of my resources on TpT.
Well, that’s my list to get you started on an awesome classroom layout! Just remember, be flexible and know that your plan will change once you get to know your students.