21 Vibrant & Inspiring Second Grade Classroom Ideas

Real-life inspiration!

Collage of second grade classroom ideas including pink themed.

Ready to transform your classroom into a learning environment that’s fun and engaging for you and your students? Say no more! We’ve done the research to get you motivated to take on a fantastic and affordable makeover. Check out this list of 21 vibrant and inspiring second grade classroom ideas to help you get started!

1. Know your classroom rules

Colorful second grade classroom bulletin board with the teacher's rules

Set the tone by letting your students know exactly what you expect in your second grade classroom.

Source: @shinelikeateacher‘s classroom rules

2. Make it chic, but affordable

Chic affordable classroom decoration with black and white carpet and pink chairs

Yes, you can absolutely replicate this posh look by raiding the budget sections at Target, TJ Maxx, and even Five Below!

Source: @cma1291

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3. Show them your support

Reading nook in a second grade classroom with shelves and motivation signage

Let your students know that they can “follow their arrow” wherever it points and you’ll be right there cheering them on!

Source: @starbsandstars

4. Make math fun!

Light colored wall in classroom sharing second grade classroom math decorations

Math can be intimidating, but this adorable wall makes it feel more accessible!

Source: @the_teacher_effect

5. Create a safe space

Calming classroom corner with string lights, fluffy pillow, and books

We all hit rough patches throughout our day, so give your students a space where they can decompress.

Source: @primary_pov

6. Offer some inspiration

Yellow classroom wall with inspiration posters on clipboards

Who doesn’t need a sweet reminder to keep going and reach higher?

Source: @youclevermonkey

7. Life’s better with pom poms

Fresh classroom decorations utilizing bright colors and pompoms from the ceiling

Even the most drab classrooms can get a boost from hanging some fun decorations.

Source: @theittybittyteacher

8. Give them a soft place to land

Carpet in a classroom with polka dots on for kids to sit on

Adding a plush rug (dark colors hide A LOT) to your library area makes it feel cozier.

Source: @theartofsecondgrade

9. Reading Corners Are The Best

Classroom reading corner with shelving and a pink chair

Give your students multiple seating options, kind words, and good books.

Source: @endlesselementary

10. Elevate your flexible seating

Flexible seating in a classroom corner with black and white carpet, a coffee table, and green chairs

Don’t shy away from elegant decor for your fabulous second grade classroom!

Source: @clutterfreeclassroom

11. Focus on setting goals

Student illustrations of books hanging on a classroom wall

Dedicate an entire space to support your students’ dreams!

Source: @mshodgin

12. Recycle, reuse, re-purpose!

Repurposed tire that has been painted white with cushions to make a chair in a classroom

Get creative about your DIY classroom decor. This old tire makes a unique seat!

Source: @dreamteachlove

13. Keep it simple

Simple reading corner in a classroom with shelving and milk crates turned upside down to make a seat

You don’t have to spend tons of money or clutter your room to create a great space.

Source: @lyndseyslearners‘s simple reading corner

14. No cubby? No problem!

File folders on students' desks because the classroom doesn't have cubbies

Use tabletop organizers to help kids keep track of their work.

Source: @lyndseyslearners‘s tabletop organizers

15. Go with classic and understated

Reading area in a second grade classroom with two chairs, books on shelves, and a carpet

Give your students a neutral reading space and let their imaginations soar!

Source: @simply_caffeinatedinsecond

16. Let them explore

Second grade classroom wall space decorations

What do they want to see? How do they want to sit? Create a second grade classroom with options.

Source: @stylishin2nd

17. Make it magical

Corner of a classroom with books, decorations, and seating for kids

Cute little accents and string lights add some whimsy to your classroom.

Source: @adie_teaches

18. Get Hooked On Book Nooks

Book nook by a classroom window with books and seating

Providing a wonderful reading nook can help students get hooked on books.

Source: @hookedonbooksabc

19. Up, up and away!

Bright decorations, including paper balloons in a classroom

Use bright colors to make STEM topics more exciting (we love those hot air balloons, too)!

Source: @lifebetweensummers

20. Use your wall space

Classroom prepared to welcome students with lots of colorful decorations

Short on floor space? Use your walls to create informative and engaging sections of content.

Source: @fancypantsteacher

21. Show some love

Second grade classroom featuring a sign that says "YOU ARE LOVED!"

We can’t control what happens outside our classroom, but we can let our students know that they are loved when they are with us.

Source: @shinelikeateacher shows some love

Plus check out the ultimate checklist for setting up your second grade classroom.

If these ideas inspired you, join our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group and come talk with the very teachers who suggested them!

22 Vibrant & Inspiring Second Grade Classroom Ideas