Does anyone have any hot tips on organizing file folder games?

Question

My file cabinet is overflowing with file folder games, but the previous teacher didn't organize them very well. Some are in folders with loose pieces, some are in ziplock bags etc. I would like to use a system that is consistant so they aren't all over the place. Also, how do you file them: by skills, alphabetically or how?

Answer 1

The first task is to go through and see which folders have missing pieces.  Separate into a separate container until you have a chance to replace the pieces.  Most likely she got them out of a book of file folder games and you will be able to find the patterns...check your local library. Ours has multiple file folder game books.

I place pieces in a baggie and velcro or paper clip them INSIDE the folder so that they do not get stuck on another folder and pulled off.  How frusterating!  :-)  The children are quite capable of replacing the pieces back in the bag.

I organize by theme mostly and place each folder game into the theme box that I have.  

At the local library they have two containers and the folder games are organized by title and level.  

If you have multiple out at one time, I would suggest one of those office wire racks...I can't think of the name but folders go in them and it short in the front and tall in the back so that you can see all the "labels".

A tip...for those games that you have the space to do it... It's great to attach velcro right to the folder because it's so frusterating for the children when they bump it and the pieces go askew :-)  I also find that there is a sensory attraction with velcro :-)  Some of the kids that wouldn't normally use these games by choice will do it just so they can attach and take off the pieces and hear the velcro :-)

Good luck!  How lucky you are!  After a little organization you will use them aplenty!

Answer 2

The best way to keep the pieces together is to Velcro the baggie of pieces to the file folder game. I keep mine organized by skill, then by level of difficulty within the skill.

File folders games are such a great tool. You are lucky that the other teacher left them for you! Enjoy!