If you ask people about education and what is important, many will say learning the different subjects. While this is true, this will not instantly happen. First, teachers need to get to know students. They need students to open up and share information about themselves. Second, teachers need to plan lessons that are appropriate for all students in the classroom. Third, teachers help students build relationships with each other. However, for any of this to happen, teachers know the importance of creating a safe space in the classroom. In order for students to open up, learn, participate, and interact, they need to feel safe.
Safe Zone from Day 1
When creating a safe class community, it is vital to start this on day one of the school year. By doing this, students will understand the importance and see it as part of the classroom expectations. Thus, students will feel that when they enter the classroom, they can relax and focus on learning. However, if they do not feel safe, their mind will not be focused on the content.
Safe versus Comfortable
When developing a safe space, it is important to differentiate between the terms safe and comfortable. Teachers want to build safe spaces, but these are not the same as comfortable spaces. In a safe place, students can put down their guard and open up to each other. They know that upon entering the classroom, they can be true to themselves. Thus, this means that students can just be part of the community. However, they may not always be comfortable at all times. There will be times when hard topics are discussed. Students will be able to share freely during community time. When this happens, things may be said that others did not know about or agree with. Thankfully, the safe classroom will ensure that students know they can respectfully disagree and still be friends.
4 Tips for Creating a Safe Space
Since it is so important to create a safe space in the classroom, here are some tips that can be implemented from the first day of school.
- Building Relationships
In order to build a safe classroom, students have to feel welcomed. They need to know their teacher is excited for them to be there. To do this, building relationships is key. This involves asking students how they are, treating them with respect, and
paying attention to what they say. For instance, if you ask them about their hobbies, make sure to pay attention. Then, as the year goes, ask them about their response again. Here, students will see that you listened and care for an update.
- Inviting Classroom Appearance
The expression “Don’t judge a book by its cover” holds a very valid point. Something can look bland or negative on the outside but be amazing on the inside. However, students deserve to walk into an inviting classroom. This means having everything organized, so students know where to find items they may need. Additionally, this means having flexible seating, if possible, or a creative desk arrangement. When the classroom is inviting, students will be ready to learn.
- Student Choice
A lot of what students learn each year is determined for them. They have to learn certain ways to solve problems and write sentences each year. However, in order for students to truly feel safe, they need to be able to have a say for themselves at times. When this happens, they see it as another way to open up and express their thoughts or interests. This is especially important for students who are uncomfortable verbalizing their opinion. Thus, allow students choice when possible in the classroom. For instance, allow students to pick a picture book or book at their reading level. Students can get cozy and read a good book. After this, small groups can even discuss their books. Or, provide a variety of writing prompts for students to express their own opinion. Here, students are still writing and practicing all of those skills. However, they are able to express their own thoughts versus being told what to write.
- Classroom Circle
Developing a classroom community is essential to creating a safe zone. Students will not feel safe if they do not feel comfortable around their classmates. Thus, it is vital to develop ways to build relationships with each other. One way to do this is to have a community circle when the day first starts. This can take anywhere from 5 to 25 minutes depending on the class size. To do this, have all of the students sit in a circle with nothing else around them. They do not need to be distracted by any assignments or technology. Then, establish norms as a class. For instance, when one person is talking, no one is interrupting. Also, this is a time to be open and honest versus judgemental. Then, develop a list of questions to ask each day. Examples include favorite food, favorite season, and favorite place to go. Allow one student to talk at a time and then go around the circle. By doing this, classmates can get to
know each other and start to build bonds with each other. As the year progresses, the questions can move to a deeper level.
Developing a safe place in the classroom is one key aspect of having a great year. If students do not feel safe, their minds will not be fully open to learning. Instead, it will be focused on the aspects that are making them uncomfortable. Therefore, set the stage for optimal learning on day one by incorporating techniques to ensure your classroom is always a safe zone.
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