Teacher's of TikTok #tips

Introduction

As teachers, finding the right prizes to incentivize students can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. However, it's essential to recognize which prizes can fall flat or even become a burden in the classroom. Here’s a rundown of some popular prizes that my kids absolutely hate or that I do not recommend under any circumstance.

Pez Dispensers

Pez dispensers might seem like a fun prize, but without the accompanying candy, they lose their appeal. Children are not interested in the dispenser itself; they want the candy that comes with it. Unfortunately, since I can’t keep candy in the classroom due to the ongoing sugar ant problem, Pez dispensers are officially on the “do not buy” list.

Magic Towels

Many teachers are familiar with magic towels, which can be purchased for a low price from places like Dollar Tree. However, these have been sitting in my collection since I began teaching, and due to their lack of engagement and excitement for students, they are getting donated. They simply aren't worth keeping.

Bubbles

Bubbles might seem like a fun idea, but I would not recommend them under any circumstance. They’re messy, they leak, and if you pick up the cheap ones from stores like Dollar Tree, you’ll likely find that they just don't work well. I’ve learned that these can lead to more trouble than they’re worth.

Erasers

Five Below offers a wide variety of cute erasers that are designed to come apart, but in reality, they become a hassle. Every time a child picks one up, it usually breaks apart, leading them to spend unnecessary time putting it back together. Unless you have a very good way to store and manage them, I recommend avoiding these as prizes altogether.

In summary, it's crucial to consider the practicality and longevity of the prizes we choose for our classrooms. Items that might initially seem appealing can quickly become sources of frustration for both educators and students.

Keywords

• Pez dispensers
• Magic towels
• Bubbles
• Erasers
• Classroom prizes

FAQ

Q: What should I do with unwanted prizes?
A: It’s a good idea to donate any unwanted or ineffective prizes, as they can still bring joy to others.

Q: What kind of prizes do students enjoy?
A: Consider items that are more functional or engaging, like stickers, pens, or small toys that don't require assembly.

Q: Can I offer edible treats as prizes?
A: While candy can be a hit, be cautious about storing it in classroom settings to avoid attracting pests.

Q: Why are some prizes not worth buying?
A: Some prizes can create messes, require maintenance, or fail to hold students’ interest, making them ineffective as incentives.