120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (2024)

Are you incredibly excited to decorate your classroom in new ways each year? Do you like to change up the theme of your classroom every so many months? Perhaps you are an avid camper/nature enthusiast and what you really want is to bring the outdoors in with an animal theme or an indoor campsite. If you are a fan of travel but don’t have the time or funds to do much traveling, or you simply want to expose your students to geography, why not try a global expedition? You can foster a love of reading in your classroom or library through a classroom theme that is modeled on a beloved book or character. Even television shows, movies, or video games can be used to transform your classroom. We are also loving classroom themes that bring positivity and light like inspirational quotes or anti-bullying messages. Regardless of your preference, you’ll love this roundup of classroom themes and decorating ideas.

Nature and Animal Classroom Themes

Check out our list of outdoorsy themes and then, if you’re still curious, see 14 Soothing Nature-Themed Classroom Ideas.

Jurassic Park/Dinosaur

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (1)

Let’s face it, kids love dinosaurs. Regardless of whether they’ve seen the Jurassic Park movies, they will get a kick out of going back in history to a time when dinosaurs ruled the land.

Camping

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (2)

Pick up a small tent and use it as the centerpiece of an amazing camping classroom. The tent itself doubles as a reading nook or calm-down corner.

See more: Brilliant Ideas for a Classroom Camping Theme

Cactus/Succulent/Plants

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (3)

ADVERTISEMENT

Succulents and cacti are super trendy right now, and they make really fun decorations for your classroom. Bonus points for keeping a few real plants alive on the windowsill!

See more: Super Sharp Cactus Classroom Theme Ideas

Owls

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (4)

Whooo doesn’t love owls? This cool DIY reading nook is the perfect inspiration for an owl classroom theme. You can also make sweet owls out of paper lanterns to hang from the ceiling.

See more: Owl-Themed Classroom Ideas That Are a Real Hoot

Enchanted Forest

Whether you put a fairy-tale spin on it or just focus on the different woodland creatures, a forest theme is a fun and engaging way to dress up your learning space.

See more: Enchanting Forest-Theme Classroom Ideas

Sunshine

Hello, sunshine! This incredibly cheerful style is bright and happy without being too cute. Even if your classroom lacks windows, every day will feel like summer.

See more: Sunshine Classroom Theme Ideas

Jungle

If you go for a jungle theme, you can include all sorts of fun animals like lions, elephants, and plenty of monkeys. Hang some faux vines from the ceiling for an extra cool touch.

See more: Wild and Crazy Jungle Classroom Theme Ideas

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is another plant that’s right on trend, and it has such a calming vibe. Plus, it’s the koala’s favorite food, so it gives you an excuse to make a koala your classroom mascot.

See more: Cute and Calming Eucalyptus Classroom Decor Ideas

Beach

Every day can feel like a vacation when you plan a beach theme. Tip: Shop end-of-summer sales for lots of decoration deals just in time for school to start!

See more: Sand-sational Beach-Themed Classroom Ideas

More Nature/Animal Theme Ideas

  • Woodland
  • Butterfly
  • Animal prints
  • Sunflower
  • National parks
  • Under the sea
  • Ocean
  • Garden
  • Cow
  • Mountain
  • Safari
  • Dog
  • Cat
  • Frog
  • Farm
  • Zoo
  • Bee
  • Ladybug
  • Stars

Sports and Game Themes

Whether you choose a mix of sports or focus on one personal favorite, there are so many ways to incorporate this theme into your room. Go team!

  • Football
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Volleyball
  • Candyland
  • Board Games (A Monopoly classroom theme is a teacher favorite!)
  • eSports (Video Gaming)

You can also check out our All-Star Ideas for a Sports-Themed Classroom.

Food Themes

Donuts

Is there any sweeter theme than donuts? Sprinkle your classroom with kindness and joy with these delightful decorations.

See more: Donuts Are the Sweetest Classroom Theme, and We’re Here to Prove It

More Food Classroom Themes

  • Ice cream
  • Pineapple
  • Starbucks
  • Coffee shop
  • Lemon
  • Apple
  • Candy
  • Cafe

Reading/Book Classroom Themes

Eric Carle

Eric Carle books are a staple of childhood and for good reason: They combine delightful, easy-to-read stories with beautiful illustrations. His stories make for the perfect jumping-off point for a classroom theme whether you are using large pom-poms to assemble a Very Hungry Caterpillar or adding suns and flowers to represent those in The Tiny Seed. There are a lot of great ideas to be found on this fun and engaging theme.

Mo Willems

Mo Willems has so many beloved book characters, like the pigeon from Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and, of course, Piggy and Elephant. Places like Etsy have so many Mo Willems–themed decals, you can really get into plastering your classroom with everyone’s favorite friends.

More Reading Themes

  • Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
  • Fairy tales
  • Winnie-the-Pooh
  • Pete the Cat
  • Alice in Wonderland

Movie, Television, and Music Themes

Hollywood

Let your students walk the red carpet every single day with a star-studded Hollywood theme. Lights, camera, learning!

See more: Oscar-Worthy Hollywood Theme Classroom Ideas

More Movie, Television, and Music Themes

  • Disney
  • Movies
  • Sesame Street
  • Marvel
  • Little Mermaid
  • Minion
  • Finding Nemo
  • Super Mario
  • Toy Story
  • Sponge Bob
  • Mickey Mouse
  • Star Wars
  • Snoopy
  • Pokemon
  • Rock and roll

Color Classroom Themes

Glow in the Dark

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (5)

Kids love all things glow-in-the-dark so why not try this fun theme for your classroom? You can get really creative with black lights and glow-in-the-dark paints for classroom signs and bulletin boards.

Rainbow or Boho Rainbow

This is actually a really easy theme, since all you need are lots of bright-colored decorations and school supplies. You’ll really appreciate the vivid hues when the darkest days of winter arrive.

See more: Rainbow Bulletin Board Ideas To Brighten Your Classroom

Bright Ideas for Dark Classrooms

If you love classroom glow days, why not bring more lights to your space year-round? It’s such an easy and inexpensive way to brighten up any room.

See more: Ways To Brighten Your Classroom During the Dreary Winter Months

More Color Themes

  • Polka dots
  • Black and white
  • Green
  • Blue
  • Purple
  • Pastel
  • Colorful
  • Confetti
  • Crayon

Seasonal Classroom Themes

If you like to change up your classroom themes throughout the year, consider doing it seasonally. You can also get creative by featuring summer themes during the winter, when dark, gloomy days seem endless, as a reminder that brighter days are ahead!

  • Winter
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Fall
  • Nautical
  • Tropical

Travel Themes

World Traveler

Geography teachers aren’t the only ones who will love these travel-themed ideas. Hit the thrift store for old suitcases and globes to dress up your space.

See more: Travel Classroom Theme Ideas

Space

To infinity and beyond! Their feet may be on the ground, but students’ imaginations can soar to space with this exciting theme.

See more: Out of This World Space-Themed Classroom Ideas

More Travel Themes

  • Travel
  • Hot-air balloon
  • Around the world
  • Adventure
  • Western

STEM Themes

Science

Periodic table on the ceiling? Why not?! A science theme encourages students to experiment, explore, and seek out new information.

See more: Best Science Classroom Decor Ideas

Math

Need a new theme? Count on math to add in some fun! Math might not be everyone’s favorite subject, but unique classroom decorations can help kids see how important it really is.

See more: Math Bulletin Board Ideas That Make Learning Fun

More STEM Themes

  • LEGO
  • Construction

Even More Theme Ideas

Be the …

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (6)

Spy Classroom

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (7)

Farmhouse

Barnyard themes with piggies and moo cows are terrific for little ones. But when you’re ready for something a little more grown up, switch to farmhouse decor instead.

See more: Simple Ways To Bring Farmhouse Decor Into Your Classroom

Superhero

Make every student feel like they’ve got superpowers with this incredible theme. The time to be awesome is now!

See more: Pow! Superhero Classroom Theme Ideas

Bitmoji

This is the kind of theme you can really use at any age. Students will get a kick out of seeing your face scattered around the room, especially when you use some of the sillier Bitmoji options.

See more: Super Creative Ways To Use Bitmojis in Your Classroom

Burlap

Need an inexpensive way to add a little flair? Burlap is a budget fabric that provides a lot of texture and interest. Plus, it’s durable, so you know it will last from year to year.

See more: Budget-Friendly Burlap Decor Ideas To Dress Up Your Classroom

Anti-Bullying

Want to promote an anti-bullying atmosphere? Use it as inspiration for classroom decor! The more kids see it, the more they’ll believe it.

See more: Anti-Bullying Posters, Decor, and Incentives You Can Buy on Amazon

Inspiring Quotes

Fill a big empty wall with some of your favorite quotes. This is one of the best ways to deal with cement block walls, whether you use paint or vinyl letters.

See more: Our All-Time Favorite Classroom Quotes

Collections

Take what you collect and turn it into classroom decorations! Just be careful—once kids realize you love something, they’ll likely bring you more and more for your collection.

See more: Cool, Cute (and Even a Little Crazy) Teacher Collections

Calming Classroom

Create a sense of calm with neutral colors and cozy touches like a big area rug. Keep clutter to a minimum, and don’t forget that empty spaces are restful for the eyes.

See more: Ways To Bring Some Calm to Your Classroom Decor This Year

Preschool

Welcome the littlest learners with bright colors and over-the-top decorations that will delight all their senses. Include lots of interactive elements around the room, and don’t forget plenty of dress-up clothes so kids can get into the spirit of things.

See more: Preschool Classroom Themes Perfect for Little Learners

Middle School

Middle school is a time to grow up a bit, so avoid overly cutesy classroom themes. Instead, look for ways to make the environment comfortable, while also including inspirational decor that supports the subject/s you teach.

See more: Fabulous Middle School Classroom Decorating Ideas

High School

Personalized touches make a classroom more welcoming for kids of any age. Think about how you can create a comfortable space to support students while they learn.

See more: Creative Decorating Ideas for High School Classrooms

Minimalist

Some teachers and students thrive best when you keep distractions to a minimum. You can still make your room a comfortable and engaging place to learn, with a lot less effort.

See more: A Minimalist’s Guide to Classroom Design

Additional Classroom Themes To Consider

  • Boho
  • Stars
  • Smiley faces
  • Cowboy
  • Groovy
  • Gnome
  • Chalkboard
  • Circus
  • Retro

Classroom themes usually last all year, but you’ll still need to change out your bulletin boards. See Interactive Bulletin Boards To Engage Students at Every Level.

Plus, get all the latest teaching news and ideas when you sign up for our free newsletters!

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher's Style (2024)

FAQs

What is an example of a classroom theme? ›

Wow! Check out this list of more than 60 elementary classroom themes that make planning, designing & decorating your learning environment quick & easy! Some of the most popular are jungle, camping, hollywood, superhero, bee, travel, western, nautical, sports, pirate, circus, beach & space theme.

What are themes and examples? ›

In creative writing, theme is the core underlying idea or message that the writer wants to communicate to the reader. For example, “the power of social status,” “the destructive nature of love,” or “the fallibility of the human condition” are all common themes.

What is an example of theme teaching? ›

For example, a theme might be "animals," and activities might include reading books about animals, making animal crafts, and visiting a local zoo. Educators incorporate a theme into all aspects of the curriculum, including math, science, and language arts.

What is the best classroom style? ›

Authoritative Classroom Management Style

However, unlike authoritarian teachers, they also have a high level of student involvement. Authoritative teachers are firm, yet fair. They set up rules and consistently enforce them, but they also value their students' input.

What is the best theme for school? ›

Themes such as "Reach for the Stars" and "Together We Achieve More" are potent reminders of the goals students and teachers strive to achieve. Implementing these themes school-wide can enhance teamwork, boost morale, and promote a supportive environment where all students feel empowered to contribute their best.

What is the most effective classroom layout? ›

The highest communication interactions between professors and students typically occurs with students in the first row or along the middle of the classroom. Students in back rows are more likely to be less engaged.

How can I look attractive in class? ›

A basic makeup routine each morning before school may help you look your best all day long. Use a concealer that matches your skin tone to cover up blemishes, then blend it in with a makeup sponge. Use powder makeup brushes to apply powdered blush or powdered bronzer. Use a makeup sponge for cream or liquid products.

How should an ideal classroom look like? ›

Keep materials ready and abundant- including books so students can engage in casual reading whenever they have time. 2. Create a place where students can meet and feel secure. Students learn from each other and need a consistent environment where face-to-face interactions happen organically.

How can I spice up my classroom? ›

Resources
  1. Think Carefully About Student Desk Arrangement. ...
  2. Consider Teacher Workspace. ...
  3. Decorate With Houseplants. ...
  4. Create Collaborative Spaces. ...
  5. Create Freely Accessible Supply Spaces. ...
  6. Be Intentional About White-Wall Space. ...
  7. Plan Storage Spaces. ...
  8. Provide Opportunities for Students to Move.

What are creative themes? ›

What is a creative theme? Creative themes are the foundations of the campaign that help keep things consistent throughout the project. It's the “big idea” that delivers a memorable message to capture your audience's attention typically through a headline, tagline and visuals.

What are themes and ideas? ›

The main idea of a text only applies to that specific text. It lists the characters' or subjects' names and plot points that are unique to the story or article. Themes are general. The same theme could apply to different texts with different characters or plot points.

What are themes in teaching and learning? ›

Themes in teaching involve the concepts or big ideas learning is centered around. Teachers choose themes based on different criteria than ideas being fun and colorful; they want students to think about what they think, or be metacognitive.

Which example is an example of a theme? ›

Some examples of themes in literature are love, redemption, forgiveness, coming of age, revenge, good vs evil, bravery and hardship.

What is a theme based class? ›

Thematic teaching (also known as thematic instruction) is the selecting and highlighting of a theme through an instructional unit or module, course, or multiple courses. It is often interdisciplinary, highlighting the relationship of knowledge across academic disciplines and everyday life.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Nathanial Hackett

Last Updated:

Views: 6263

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Nathanial Hackett

Birthday: 1997-10-09

Address: Apt. 935 264 Abshire Canyon, South Nerissachester, NM 01800

Phone: +9752624861224

Job: Forward Technology Assistant

Hobby: Listening to music, Shopping, Vacation, Baton twirling, Flower arranging, Blacksmithing, Do it yourself

Introduction: My name is Nathanial Hackett, I am a lovely, curious, smiling, lively, thoughtful, courageous, lively person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.