Storage and organization seem to be continual problems for many preschool teachers. I had many card games scattered around here and there, and I was sick and tired of searching for them when I needed them. I had to get my act together and find a way for card storage and ways to organize all those card games to save time and my sanity!
Classroom Card Game Storage
I am all about finding smart teaching hacks that help me save time and frustration. In the past I have used plastic zip top bags to store my many card games. But the bags don’t last and eventually cards end up scattered all over the place. I have also used old VHS cases to store card games but those are more difficult to come by now.
Here are a few ideas for storing your card games.
Plastic Food Storage Container
For my shape memory card game, I bought two sets of shape cards at the dollar store. I also found a plastic container that was the perfect size. I typed the instructions to the game on a mailing label and attached the label to the inside lid of the box. This game can be easily stored or easily added to a center or work box.
Soap Dish Storage Container
Sometimes I create my own card games like the one pictured above using student pictures and names. To create this game I cut index cards to fit inside a soap dish that I purchased at Walmart for $1. I use this memory game at the beginning of the year to help students get to know each other and learn each other’s names. I printed the instructions for this game on a mailing label and attached the label to the bottom of the soap dish.
Lunch Box Card Storage Container
I found these cute lunch boxes at the Target Dollar Spot that are perfect for storing card games. Place a label on the outside of the box to remind you what game is stored inside.
Card Game Ideas
Now that you have great storage containers, how do you use those card games? Here are some ideas for using flash cards and card games:
- Put them in centers
- Have students play the games with big buddies (upper grade friends that visit the classroom)
- Have volunteers use them in one-on-one tutoring sessions
- Send them home in Buddy Bags
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More Organization Ideas
