Attention Getters & Transitions

I really love using sounds for transitions in the classroom! They are a good way to gain students' attention without shouting. In my classroom, I use a few sounds which go as follows:

Chimes - This is how I call my kids to the carpet.  Every time.  I don't say a word; I just ding the chimes.  If I am across the room and I want the kids to come to the carpet, I ask a student to ring the chimes for me.  I purchased my chimes about 10 years ago, from a local lady whose husband makes them, but I have seen them on Amazon.

Wireless Door Bell - I use my bell when I want the kids to clean up centers, quiet reading, inside recess, or any games/activities we may be doing in class.  Again, I do not say a peep; I just ring the bell.  Sometimes, I'll ask a student to ring it for me. This year, I'll be trying something new: a wireless door bell!  The reason for this is because many times when I want my class to clean up, I am across the room and the bell is on my desk.  I like the idea of clipping the doorbell button on my name badge so it's on me for whenever I need it.  Anything to free up more time in the day is good with me!  

Push bell - I use this when I'd like kids to come to the front of the room.  This is a nice option to have, because sometimes I get tired of sitting on the carpet.  We come to the front of the room when we are watching a Brain Pop, or doing something on my large white board.

In addition to my fun "toys," I also use attention-grabbers.  These are quick and fun callbacks that I do with my class. The kids love them!  I teach them these the first few weeks of school.  You can grab them by clicking the cover page below.  If you are short on space, print two to a page for smaller posters.

They are great for auditory learners and save you a lot of unnecessary talking/raising your voice!