The PBIS World Book

Turn Desk Around

Why should I do it:

  • Reduces distractions
  • Reduces interruptions
  • Helps students focus
  • Keeps students from constantly reaching in their desk to get items and play with them
  • Reduces fidgeting with objects
  • Reduces extra activity of going in and out of the desk
  • Gives students an opportunity to get up and move when they have to get something out of their desk
  • Reduces time students spend trying to look for and find things in their desks
  • Reduces clutter and disorganization

When should I do it:

  • When a student is frequently getting things out of their desk
  • When students have cluttered and disorganized desks
  • When students are frequently distracted with objects in their desks or playing in their desks
  • When students need frequent opportunities to get up and move
  • When students are distracted by their desks and objects in it

How do I do it:

  • Have the student turn their desk around so they cannot access their belongings in the desk without getting out of their seat and walking around to the desk opening
  • Help the student develop a routine where they get out only the supplies they need for each subject