So, you are probably thinking by now that I really like classroom themes. Truth is, I don’t think themes are really necessary and they are not for everyone. Some years, I have had themes and some years, I haven’t. Themes can be fun, but beware, they can turn on you quickly. My friend, Tara, created an amazing patriotic classroom last year. Everything in her room was red, white, and blue. She created a huge American flag across the length of her classroom and decorated everything in the same color combination. By the time we reached May she hated it! I would laugh every time she told me that she wanted to rip it all down! By June, she did it – she pulled it all down and was relieved to get rid of it all. Tara was living in a space that didn’t fit her personality and her favorite colors weren’t represented.

My friend, Mary from Texas, emailed me and asked her to come up with a theme for her. After I looked at her classroom, I knew a theme would not suit her. Her walls were filled with student work and art. It was obvious that the theme would look a little ridiculous with her child-centered classroom. Together, we decided that we should just choose a pretty color combination that compliments the existing colors in her room. Pretty paper and pretty border would work best with her teaching style.

A cute and inviting classroom doesn’t necessarily need a theme. I am a huge believer in making your space represent who you are. Remember, your classroom is like your second home. If you decide to choose a theme, make sure it is something you love and would enjoy living in for an entire school year.

Tara now has a new theme this school year – an ocean theme. She created a classroom with beautiful blues and greens – her favorite colors. She made this theme represent a part of her personality. Take it from the girl who lives next door to her (me), she is so much happier when she walks into her new classroom!!! Make your room represent YOU!

Happy Decorating!
Melanie
xoxo