Classroom Bulletin Board Backgrounds
When it comes to creating an engaging and visually appealing learning environment, classroom bulletin boards play a crucial role. The background of a bulletin board sets the stage for the information and displays that will be showcased. In this blog, we will explore the key aspects of classroom bulletin board backgrounds, with a specific focus on design, pictures, ideas, size, border, information, decor, and fabric. Let’s dive in!
Design: Setting the Tone for Learning
The design of your bulletin board background is the first thing that catches the eye of students as they enter the classroom. Get creative and select a design that aligns with the subject or theme you are teaching. Popular options include nature landscapes, vibrant patterns, or inspiring quotes. Remember, the design should be visually stimulating without overpowering the main content.
Pictures: Visualizing Learning
Pictures are a powerful tool in education. Incorporating relevant images on your bulletin board background can enhance the learning experience. Display diagrams, photographs, or illustrations that supplement the subject matter. Visual cues can help students better understand complex concepts and encourage active participation.
Size: Finding the Perfect Fit
Consider the size of your bulletin board when selecting a background. It should be proportionate to the available space and not overcrowd or dwarf other elements. Measure the dimensions of your bulletin board and choose a background that will fit seamlessly.
Border: Framing the Message
Adding a border to your bulletin board background can give it a polished and cohesive look. Consider using colorful borders that complement the theme or design. Borders can be as simple as solid colors or as intricate as patterned designs. Experiment with different border styles to find the one that resonates with your classroom aesthetics.
Information: Communicating with Clarity
Ensure that the information displayed on your bulletin board background is easily readable and well-organized. Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to structure information. Avoid cluttering the bulletin board with too much text. Instead, focus on key messages and important visuals that reinforce the learning objectives.
Decor: Engaging and Inspiring
A well-decorated bulletin board background can create an inviting and inspiring atmosphere in your classroom. Consider integrating three-dimensional elements, such as cutouts or raised displays to add depth and interest. Add student work or achievements to showcase their efforts and boost their sense of pride.
Fabric: Adding Texture and Versatility
Using fabric as a bulletin board background material can bring texture and versatility to your classroom decor. Fabrics come in various colors, patterns, and textures, allowing you to choose options that best suit your overall theme. You can experiment with different fabric materials such as burlap, felt, or even canvas to add a tactile element to your bulletin board.
Ideas: Inspiration from Every Angle
Brainstorming ideas for bulletin board backgrounds can be a fun and collaborative activity among educators. Encourage your colleagues to share their creative suggestions and exchange ideas. Look for inspiration in professional development forums, educational websites, or even Pinterest boards dedicated to classroom decorations.
Here is a roundup of some (maybe) new-to-you suggestions for how to cover the bulletin board before creating your back to school masterpiece!
Need a quick idea (or 18!) for a Back to School board? I’ve got you covered!
18 files in one spot!
Each includes directions, premade printable title letters, borders, and student name accents. You simply need a student roster and a printer. Easy and lots of choices!
Includes: Legos, shamrocks, writing, cookies, Tootsie Rolls, dogs, space, sunglasses, fish, gummy bears, buckets, rulers, calculators, owls, wild animals, bees, dinosaurs, and candy themes!
I love this board from Fourth Grade Florida Fun, which uses decorative fadeless paper instead of the standard butcher or roll paper your school most likely has on hand to use. It can really jazz up a bulletin board.
Basic fabric can be found in every color and pattern you could possibly want. Hit up the fabric store instead of the teacher supply store for this option. And it is usually pretty inexpensive too! Or use bed sheets!
Bulletin Board Decorations
Burlap is perfect for a western or rustic classroom theme – and you won’t be able to notice the pin or staple holes either! Love this one from Smitten with First!
Have some extra wrapping paper laying around? Fern Smith shows you how to jazz up a bulletin board and even better if you get it on clearance after the holidays!
Something more nontraditional: how about aluminum foil? Depending on your board topic, it might be perfect! I am thinking rainbow fish, a cookie sheet, or something else shiny.
Smilin’ in Second created her own “new” bulletin board by placing a plastic tablecloth over an old whiteboard – pretty snazzy!
Something as simple as adding white contact paper to a plain background can also completely change the look and feel, which is what Rowdy in First Grade did! {You could also use any other type of decorative tape on your choice of paper too!}
How about newspaper for a classroom news bulletin board?
Or wax paper? I can see this being super cute for a bulletin board where you have a winter scene.
I know a ton of teachers who simply just painted the background of their bulletin boards each year so they never had to think about covering them. No seams, wrinkles, or fading to contend with all year long.
Mrs. Teachnology just grabbed her favorite scrapbook paper patterns and created her own unique block style background.
Classroom Bulletin Board Borders
A shower curtain is also an easy way to find a pattern you love!
Need a quick idea? How about a color block of simple tissue paper? I think this idea from Cross Curricular Corner is gorgeous!
So this one is not really a background, but I was thinking about how you could use maps as a background and this came up on my search list from Lessons Learned. I thought it was amazing!
I know this is going to BLOW YOUR MIND, but my favorite bulletin board background? None at all. In fact, I rarely ever cover the background. I preferred the natural look of the cork. Once I tossed a cute border up around the edges and added my board content, the background wasn’t really even noticeable anyway.
Need something easy and cute to use as a border? I put together this free pack of glitter borders just for you! Simply print, cut, connect, laminate, and hang!
Designing an impressive bulletin board background is an essential part of creating an engaging learning environment. By focusing on design, pictures, ideas, size, border, information, decor, and fabric, you can elevate your classroom decor and make the bulletin board a captivating focal point. So, let your creativity flow and transform your bulletin boards into an educational masterpiece. Happy decorating!
Do you use something different on your bulletin boards? We would love to have even more suggestions in the comments below and thanks for sharing!
~Charity
I love so many of these! We have several smaller bulletin boards in our class. I like to find pics like these and spend the first few days of school letting them vote and discuss and design the bulletin board. it looks a little boring when they first come in but really creates some teamwork and ownership of the class for younger learners.