Desk Pets for the win!

I was needing a special reward to use for reading practice time.  This particular year I had several fool allergies and I wanted a break from the acceptable Skittle treat.  Usually throughout the year, I use M&Ms and Hershey Kisses and in the spring, I use Sweet tarts and jelly beans.  Several teachers shared the idea of desk pets and I developed my own use.  To say it was a hit is an understatement!  I ordered a pack of erasers that were animals and food from Amazon.  About once a week, I specified at the beginning of our reading group time that I would be giving out desk pets for those students who followed along during our reading time and didn't get lost.  This encouraged students to engage in following with their eyes and fingers as other children read.  When it was their turn to read, they knew where we were.  That is a big deal when learning to read and keeping focus when others are reading.  I picked up little containers at the Dollar Tree that I re-used each year.  When the little container was too full, I switched to a bigger container (house).  I used little pieces of felt for blankets.  After group time was done, students had a chance to pick out one item from my box.  These turned out to be highly coveted and guarded and a lot less sugary!

Soon...they were playing imaginatively together during free times.  Reuse and recycle the little containers each year.  Write names on containers with a Sharpie and it is easily removed with an alcohol wipe.  Parents love to donate to your classroom!  Create a classroom wishlist or share specific needs you are looking for each year.