When it comes to batteries, you get what you pay for. We understand how tempting those great prices are at the Dollar Store, but unfortunately you’ll find yourself constantly replacing those off-brand batteries. All. Year. Long. We strongly encourage you to use name brands like Duracell and Energizer to really get the most walks out of each battery.
Go green!
Another option to consider is rechargeable batteries. While the initial investment might be more, this option is more affordable in the long run. Many adopters report great success with using rechargeable batteries and the manufacturer, Playaway, says they are a great option.
Delegate
Regardless of what kind of batteries you choose to use, consider making battery replacement a responsibility for one of your students. Remind students to check the battery level of their WalkKit before every walk and if the battery is very low, the student in charge can simply give them a new/recharged battery and toss out/recharge the old one. This leaves you to focus on other matters at hand and guarantees all students are able to finish listening to the podcast while out walking.
Ain’t too proud…
Finally, if you are able to make a wish list or request items on your supply list, consider asking parents to donate batteries so that your class can experience happy, uninterrupted trails throughout the school year!
Hello,
I am a high school after school coordinator who is interested in the Walking Classroom but I’ve noticed most of the information is geared toward the elementary level. How can I incorporate this activity into a high school setting and the students not be bored? We are preparing for a summer program in our SMART Lab in a few weeks and I would really like to get the students up and moving.
Hi Pam,
Thank you for your interest in The Walking Classroom. For now, our program targets 3rd through 8th grade students. We do have some students with special needs using the program in high school, but in general, the curriculum does not support students beyond the 8th grade. I’m sorry we couldn’t be of more help. Good luck with your SMART lab!