DIY Stress Balls for Your Classroom
Stress can be a common problem among students, but luckily there are simple and fun solutions like DIY stress balls. These stress balls can not only help students to relax and relieve tension, but also provide a creative and hands-on activity for the classroom. In this article, we will explore different methods of making DIY stress balls that you can incorporate into your classroom.
1. Balloon Stress Balls
One of the easiest and most popular methods of making DIY stress balls is by using balloons. Here’s how you can do it:
– Materials needed:
– Balloons (preferably latex)
– Flour or rice
– Funnel or spoon
– Instructions:
1. Start by stretching the balloon gently to loosen it up.
2. Using a funnel or a spoon, fill the balloon with flour or rice. Adjust the amount based on the desired firmness.
3. Tie a knot at the end of the balloon to secure the filling.
4. Repeat the process with more balloons until you have enough stress balls for your classroom.
2. Playdough Stress Balls
Another creative option is to make stress balls using playdough. This allows students to
personalize their stress balls with different colors and add an extra sensory element. Here’s how you can make playdough stress balls:
– Materials needed:
– Playdough (store-bought or homemade)
– Ziplock bags or small containers
– Instructions:
1. Divide the playdough into small portions, one for each stress ball.
2. Encourage students to knead and shape their playdough into a ball or any other desired shape.
3. Once the playdough is shaped, place it inside a Ziplock bag or a small container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
4. Repeat the process with more portions of playdough to create multiple stress balls.
3. Sock Stress Balls
If you’re looking for a cost-effective and eco-friendly option, sock stress balls are a great choice. Students can use their old or mismatched socks to create unique stress balls. Here’s how they can be made:
– Materials needed:
– Socks (old or mismatched)
– Rubber bands or string
– Filling material (such as rice, flour, or beans)
– Instructions:
1. Take a sock and fill it with your desired filling material. Adjust the amount based on your preferred firmness.
2. Secure the sock tightly at the open end using a rubber band or string.
3. Trim off any excess sock material to create a neater ball shape.
4. Repeat the process with more socks to make additional stress balls.
Incorporating DIY stress balls into your classroom not only helps students manage stress but also encourages creativity and enhances focus. Students can use these stress balls during quiet reading time, test preparation, or whenever they feel the need for a calming activity. Remember to encourage students to take care of their stress balls and keep them in a designated area.
By introducing DIY stress balls into your classroom, you are providing a simple yet effective tool for stress relief and promoting a positive learning environment. Give these methods a try and watch as your students find a sense of relaxation and enjoyment during their school day.