The “old school” tool your classroom still needs

Hey Reader!

I remember my Sunday School teacher telling the story of Noah building the ark with a flannel board! As she told the story, we were allowed to add the boat, the animals, and Noah’s family. I remember moving the animals from the ark back out onto land at the end and then adding in the rainbow as a symbol of God’s faithfulness!

Flannel boards aren’t just “old school.”

They’re one of the simplest, most powerful tools you can use in early childhood classrooms.

What’s a flannel board?

A vertical piece of felt/flannel + story props.

  • Felt pieces stick naturally.
  • Laminated paper? Add Velcro.
  • Or swap for a magnet board.

Why use them?

👉 Engage learners. Visuals + interaction = more attention and retention especially when you include the children in using the props.
👉 Build sequencing skills. Adding pieces step by step helps kids understand “first this, then that.”
👉 Encourage movement. Use them as vertical centers so kids learn while standing, moving, meeting sensory needs.
👉 Highly portable. Perfect for hallways, transitions, or anywhere you need a quick retelling activity.

When was the last time you pulled out a flannel board in your classroom? Reply to this email and let us know your favorite story to tell using a flannel board.

Need a little more help? Check out these resources:

  • Click HERE for an in-depth video on how to use a Flannel Board in your classroom.
  • Make your own flannel board BOX – Click HERE!
  • Purchase completed flannel board sets HERE!

Cheering you on this week!

-Your ECCN team

P.S. If you don’t want to receive these weekly emails anymore, no hard feelings. Click HERE to be removed from this list. (You’ll still receive other emails from us based on past preferences.)

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR ALL FALL 2025 EVENTS!


West Texas (Lubbock) – October 18, 2025, prices increase Oct 4th!
Bryan/College Station – November 8, 2025, you still have time!
Houston (Pasadena) – January 24, 2026 registration is NOW OPEN!

San Antonio – February 7, 2026 registration is NOW OPEN!

SAVE THE DATE FOR DIRECTOR’S RETREAT — March 5-6 in Granbury, TX.

Similar Posts