Classroom Magic #5: Have a Classroom Playlist

At the beginning of the year, ask each student to submit a song “for our classroom playlist.” (You submit one, too!)

Since there may be duplicates—which isn’t necessarily a bad thing—you might want to ask them to submit two or three. Later in the year, when the list gets overplayed, have them submit new songs.

Create the playlist. Then play it when kids enter the classroom, are working independently (or in groups)—you’ll sense when the time is right. I’ve even played music during testing as a way to get students to relax.

Warning: Kids, especially teenagers, can be really weird about music. Translation: They can be mean and insulting. For example: “This song sucks,” “I hate this song,” or “Who chose this? This group is so lame.”

So you’ll need to teach them how to, if not embrace, at least respect each other’s tastes.

Don’t yuck my yum! Meaning, if I like something that’s not hurting you, please don’t make me feel bad about it.

For example, if I like chocolate chip ice cream, and you don’t, you don’t have to lie and say you do. Just don’t say anything.

Or ask me why I like it. If I’m a Swiftie and you’re not, you can ask me why I like Taylor. But please don’t rip her. It makes me not want to be around you.

Once that lesson is learned, the classroom playlist can be wonderful for the classroom vibe, a unifier, a source of joy, and a reason for kids to want to come to your class.