How Flat Teachers Are Closing The Distance

One thing became abundantly clear when teachers were thrust into distance learning – our kids missed us. Kindergarten and elementary school children, in particular, need the comfort of their teacher’s presence. But unfortunately, eye contact, touch and one-on-one support are complicated to manage in a virtual space. Fortunately, if teachers are anything, they are innovative. And this is how the Flat teacher came to be.

What Is A Flat Teacher?
Why Send A Flat Teacher To Your Students?
How Do You Create A Flat Teacher Project
Flat Teacher Inspiration
Flat Teacher FAQs

What Is A Flat Teacher?

A flat teacher is printed, a card version of you. You students can cut it out and keep it close to them while learning from home during school closures. The idea was based on the character ‘Flat Stanley’, a 1965 book character that inspired the Flat Stanley Project in the mid-90s. Paper cutouts of the characters were used to encourage reading and improve literacy skills.

Why Send A Flat Teacher To Your Students?

Distance learning was tough on kids. They missed us, and in all fairness, we missed them too. However, by sending a flat teacher to your students, you are creating a sense of connection and reminding them that you are still present in their lives, albeit remotely. Much like a security blanket or favorite toy, many of your students will take great comfort in being able to carry their flat teacher around.

How Do You Create A Flat Teacher Project

You can create a perfect mini-me with a bit of technology, a printer, a laminator and a sense of humor.

Step 1: Create Your Teacher

The first thing you need to do is download the Bitmoji app. A few years ago, everyone’s news feeds were bombarded with cute avatars depicting themselves in various situations. You can customize your ‘flat teacher you’ to include all your recognizable features and quirks – even your permanently attached coffee cup and frazzled ‘I’ve been grading papers all night’ hairdo. And don’t panic if you are a technophobe – it’s straightforward and self-explanatory.

Once you have designed your avatar, save it to your gallery, and you’ll find little cartoon versions of you in hundreds of situations and poses.

Choose the one you think is best for your Flat teacher project, and print out a copy for each student.

Carefully cut out your avatars, and place them in a safe place where they won’t crumple or tear.

Top Tips

Choose slightly thicker paper or card to print your avatar on if possible. It will make it that little bit hardier and able to withstand being carried around.
If you have access to a laminator, then do it. It’s a great way to ensure your flat teacher’s longevity.
Color printing can be costly, and not everyone has a color printer at home, but color is always best if you can make a plan. It brings the avatar to life, making it all the more exciting for your students.
Alternatively, tell your students to add color themselves as an add-on activity. If it has been laminated, they can use permanent markers.

Step 2: Writing A Letter

Before you are ready to send your flat teacher to your students, write them a letter explaining that you miss them and have found a way to stay close.

You have a creative license here and can add anything you like, but there are a few things that you should always include.

Make sure you personalize it by including their name.
Tell them how much you miss them.
Explain the purpose of your Flat teacher avatar.
Include an adventure or activity you would like them to share with their flat teacher.

Here is a template to help you:

Hello (Student name), it’s me, (Your name).

I have missed you, and I know you miss me too. So, I figured out the perfect way for us to be together. I have sent you a ‘mini-me’, and I’d love to stay close to you during all your online lessons.

I’d also love to have some fun with you after school. So please introduce me to your family, pets and toys so we can get to know each other.

I’d love to join you on your next family outing, even if it is to the grocery store or the park.

Soon, we’ll be back together, and I really can’t wait – but for now, keep your flat teacher close and know that you are missed.

Keep up the excellent work and the fantastic attitude!

(Your name)

Pop your flat teacher in a large enough envelope, along with your letter and let your students know there is a surprise on the way.

Step 3: Take It Further With These Creative Ideas

· Instead of a letter, why not write a poem to make it a little more playful. If you are not a natural poet, plenty of online examples can help you.

· Get your students to involve their flat teachers in formal activities. For example, if they are conducting science experiments at home, they must explain their method to your avatar as they go.

· Encourage reading by asking your students to read to their flat teacher daily.

· Let your students create a photo journal of their flat teacher in fun and amusing situations. Maybe their flat teacher is peeking out from the cereal boxes in the supermarket or having a cup of tea with Grandma. If they venture out to a farm or petting zoo, their flat teacher can be part of some exciting images.

· Let your students create a ‘flat student’ that they can send to you. They don’t need the fancy tech – handmade is fine. Their letter to you is an excellent opportunity for creative writing.

· Why not include a ‘flat pet’ in your pack if you have a classroom pet?