Did you ever have one of those moments where you are just like, “Why didn’t I think of this sooner?” That was me before I discovered how to create my own DIY Timer Clipboard.
As a special education teacher, I am constantly collecting data… all sorts of data… especially data that requires the use of a timer. How I never thought to DIY myself a timer clipboard is beyond me.
Luckily, a few weeks ago I discovered that this was actually a thing… a clipboard with a timer… and it blew my mind. I almost bought one, and then the teacher in me (you know, the one that likes to save money on certain things just so I can use the rest to build my classroom library) was like, “Girl make one!”
So when I saw a blank clipboard at the store the other day, it reminded me. The clipboard cost me $2 at WalMart and the timer was $5 at Target.
The only other supply needed is hook and loop Velcro.
I decided to use hook Velcro strips and loop Velcro coins. (Feiner Supply has great prices on bulk Velcro).
I am right handed, so I decided to attach the Velcro on the top right side.
I didn’t make the strips go all the way to the end for whatever reason.
I’m sure it will eventually bother the minor OCD in me.
Open the timer.
To make sure that I could change the batteries when needed, I chose Velcro coins. I attached 4 coins – two on either side, so that it was durable enough to withstand being in a life skills classroom.
Attach it and you’re done!
The size of the timer is perfect for daily use of this clipboard. I might make a few more for inclusion and resource data collection.
One of the great things about this DIY is that you can literally use any size or color of clipboard. You could even decorate this clipboard before attaching the timer. Or have your students decorate it. So many options!
You can grab this data collection sheet inside of my IEP Binder, along with over 100+ other editable data collection sheets.
Linda Gillikin says
July 10, 2018 at 1:40 pmFound out about your website page from my friend who works as a sped teacher. I’m excited as this year will be my first year as a sped teacher myself. I will be working as an inclusion classroom teacher with kindergarten and first grade. I come to this late in life and thought I would never have my own classroom. I am now 65 and I’m going to be able to affect in a positive way special education children. I have worked for over five years as a substitute teacher teaching in all areas. I enjoy middle school, high school and elementary. The special education kids have been my favorite placement to work. I will miss being in the lives of these students they have made such a difference in my life. I’m hoping that now that I have a school from my home that I couldn’t make the best difference. I will miss being in the lives of the students they have made such a difference in my life. I’m hoping that now that I have a school from my home that I could make the best difference in these kids lives. I have so much to give, if possible could you please let me know the most important things I will need for my new classroom. I’m confused as to what a conclusion classroom would need.
Helen says
September 20, 2018 at 1:34 amGosh! I just wanted to say “thank you”! That’s a great idea!