I don’t think I can survive without visiting Ikea at least once a year (more, if possible). Ikea never ceases to amaze me with their budget-conscious decor and innovative use of space. Speaking of space, teachers love the place because the endless options to organize and decorate even the tiniest corner with bright, fun decor! I don’t think I’ve ever met a classroom teacher who didn’t love Ikea. One of the best (and cheapest) items they have for the classroom are the Tolsby frames– they are so good that we rounded up five ingenious ways to use them in the classroom! Check out a few of these hacks and tag us on Instagram in any new hacks you come up with! I’d love to add them to the list!
The 4×8 plastic frame is only 99 cents (why can’t the dollar stores make things like this?!?)
1. Make a suncatcher
This looks like a simple project to make with young kids. I even want to make one myself!
2. Make a flashcard holder
Get the free download of these perfectly-sized alphabet cards here, or use your own variety!
3. Display nature finds to inspire beautiful art!
Need some more ideas on how to start a Nature Table? See my post here!
4. Make a countdown calendar
This particular example is for Advent, but get creative and make a countdown for any special day!
5. Center Directions for the classroom
When kids work at independent centers, they can still use some direction! These little frames are perfect for spelling out what needs to be done.
How else would you use the Tolsby Frame? How many are you going to buy on your next Ikea trip? 😉
What size rings for the flip index card stands?
I use my frames for center/station signs. I use them for special directions in centers/stations. I also have my kids’ photos on a book ring insideone of the frames. We do Conscious Discipline at our school. We display absent friendss photos to wish them well.
I love these ideas! Thanks for the recommendation!
For Mother’s Day one year I used these frames and the flower cards from Ikea (that were on clearance) along with pictures of the students holding a #i♡u sign. It was really cute!
What a great gift! That one goes above and beyond the normal Mother’s Day gifts I’ve seen! <3
The bright color frames with center directions look different than the ones iveseen at IKEA? Where are they from?
I believe those are from Michael’s craft store.
I grabbed one from my tray when we were observing minibeasts in the outdoor area. I popped a snail on the perspex so the children could see the ripples (they look like moving stripes) in its foot as it moved along. Very interesting!
That is such a cool idea! And one my boys would LOVE!!
Do you have an editable version of the centre directions that you would be willing to share? Or know where I can get something like these? Thank you!