You don't need to re-invent the wheel to get centers running smoothly. I'm going to walk you through the exact system I use in my classroom: free-flowing centers!

Here are the top 5 benefits I see in classrooms that transition to free-flowing centers:

01

Save time

If I had to choose just one benefit to highlight with this system, it would be this! Traditional centers require SO much time with planning, cutting/prepping materials, and even managing the process during class. Free-flowing centers will significantly reduce all of this time and allow you to focus more on your students.

02

Add flexibility to your daily schedule

You're just getting started with center time and as everyone is settling into their center *boom* a fire drill! Maybe there is a school assembly, a field trip, or any number of events that throw off your schedule. With free-flowing centers, you can easily accommodate these schedule disruptions and jump right back into the flow.

03

Keep kids engaged

Your students are able to work alongside their peers in a collaborative way which allows you to sneak in those super important social skill lessons! They select which activity they want to do and complete it in their own time. Remember you're still the TEACHER so you set the environment on their activities. 😉

04

Tons of opportunities for differentiation

Not only do free-flowing centers allow you to provide a wide range of skill choices, but they also allow for natural differentiation. No need for homogenous grouping as each student brings something valuable to the table. They learn best from their peers!

05

Encourage independence in kids

Your students will gain the confidence to make choices and work longer when they feel in control. They take responsibility for their own learning and you get back your planning time! Plus, sub plans become a lot easier to write since the kids will know every step.