Planning to be out is pretty much on every teacher’s list of things she would rather NOT do. It’s hard to put into words every little thing that we do for every single minute of the day. Follow along below to learn how to plan for a substitute teacher. Please note, that I realize that … Read more
My students love secret messages – you know, using a special code to figure out what the message is. And, since it’s December, and I’m trying desperately to keep my kids engaged, why not have December Secret Messages? What are December Secret Messages? Students use a special key to crack the code, and solve the … Read more
If you’re looking for the easiest classroom slime recipe that is easy for teachers and students, doesn’t require a ton of ingredients, you’re in the right place! For the last several years, my students have been crazy for slime. I have been crazy about avoiding making slime in the classroom because I’ve never found a … Read more
If you’re looking for an easy back to school student gift you’re in the right place! I recently posted this picture on my Instagram account (follow me), and I got lots of requests to make it available! Aside from a welcoming smile, and warm environment, I think a small gift to give students is a … Read more
A few years ago, I wrote about the best planner I have EVER used, and I felt like it was probably time to give an update. You can read about it HERE. So here’s the question: Is an Erin Condren Teacher Lesson Planner really worth the money? I’ve been using an Erin Condren TLP for … Read more
I have all the heart eyes for author, Maria Dismondy! Her books are powerful, and offer real-life examples of how students can take ownership of solving their own problems. Throughout this post, you’ll find Amazon Affiliate links. This means I receive a small commission if you purchase something through that link, at no extra cost … Read more
I sort of feel like Groundhog Day is one of those “holidays” the sometimes gets overlooked, but it covers so many different teaching and learning opportunities, it’s worth taking some time to incorporate it into your lessons. I especially love THIS informational reading mini-unit. Throughout this post, you’ll find Amazon Affiliate links. This means I … Read more
I wanted to share how I use (and have used for several years) a token economy in my classroom. I taught at different PBIS/PBS schools for 7 years, and a token economy is the perfect addition to what your school is already doing! I’ve used this system in 1st, 2nd, and 4th grades, and absolutely … Read more
As part of our folktale unit in 2nd grade, we spend about two weeks reading different versions of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. There are LOTS of different Goldilocks books out there, and a ton of activities you can do with those books. I’m sharing a few of my favorite Goldilocks books, and a few … Read more
I’m going to keep this short, and to the point. I wanted my students to write about what they’re thankful for, but I didn’t just want a plain list. I thought having them try to think of something they’re thankful for that begins with each letter of the alphabet would be more fun, and add … Read more
It’s no secret that I am a MAJOR fan of class jobs – I mean…many hands make light work, right? Aside from having 20 or so helpers around the classroom, there’s a whole bunch of other reasons I think class jobs are super important: Helps build a sense of community…this is OUR classroom Gives students … Read more
It’s official…the aliens have arrived, and taken over my sweet little first graders. It actually happened a couple of weeks ago. #facepalm I needed to get my kiddos under control and keep the calm #likeyesterday. So you know all those adorable stickers at Target that are only $1??? Well, I buy them like I need … Read more
