Free Art

What type of behavior management program do you incorporate in your classroom?  Both of my schools incorporate a Positive Behavior System and I tie my management to that program.  In both schools, PBS is based on three focus points.  In my classroom, students are expected to observed the points and as a group can earn three squares on a behavior chart each week.  If all three squares are filled; they earn a free art class in 7 weeks.  My first classes achieved free art this week.  I have several art games, drawing books and old favorite creative toys such as blocks, spiral graph, a felt board, Wild Wooly, and etch-a-sketch for students to use freely during this class period.  I love watching the choices they make when given the opportunity to freely explore.  Here are a few photos from yesterday's creativity.  Regardless of age, the boys are always drawn to the blocks.  Future architects in the making, I predict!

Do you have Free Art?

Each quarter my students have the opportunity to earn a free art day based on how they manage their behavior as a group in the art room. Classes can earn up to three squares on the free art chart based on  behavior during instruction time, creative time and clean-up.  It is possible to earn a free art period per quarter.  The motivation for free art is the opportunity to create freely for a class period.  I have a number of kids drawing books for them to pattern after, a few art bases games and some wonderful dice games from Expressive Monkey, as well as some blocks and a felt board.  I try to move around the room and join various groups for a period of time to play games, draw, and visit with them.  I am often surprised and delighted by some of the work my students create for these free days.  It's also a great way to deal with the off days just prior to vacation when you know your students might be lacking in a focus for real instruction.