As students settle into their new classroom, they may have all sorts of nerves. For instance, many need time to warm up to a new teacher and routines. Students are also nervous about who they will sit by at lunch and play with at recess. So, teachers work hard to help students get to know…
As teachers plan for the new school year, they often make needed purchases. These items may be something they wished they had last year or saw this summer. Either way, teachers do everything they can to create a welcoming, supportive environment for students. So, I am excited to share my classroom must-haves for back to…
Teachers handle so much each day! Yes, the main priority is on teaching students through amazing lessons. However, there is so much that goes on behind the scenes. This includes determining the right differentiation for each student, completing paperwork, and communicating with parents. By the end of the day, teachers leave exhausted. Unfortunately, this often…
After so many years of doing the same activity, teachers often switch things up. This keeps lessons fresh and exciting while incorporating student interest. Honestly, it makes sense that students want a change just as teachers do. Since they follow the same daily schedule and complete the same style of activities each day, they look…
Elementary students go through so much every year. While learning is fun and exciting, it is also exhausting. Additionally, our youngest students are learning all about friendship, teamwork, and following structured routines. To help reduce feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, teachers work hard to create extra-fun days that students look forward to. For instance, a…
When students start a new school year, they are so excited to see their friends again. However, they are also nervous for various reasons. Some may have ended the previous school year feeling left out. Or, some students may be new and not know anybody. Honestly, students experience so many emotions at the start of…
Looking for a way to spruce up your classroom for Halloween? Need some spooky activity inspiration? Fall/winter is such an exciting time of the year, especially when it comes to the holidays. One of the first ones that comes our way in October is Halloween! And while it is a festive time, teachers know that…
Reading fluency is an important skill for all students, even children just learning the alphabet and letter sounds. Fluency is the ability of students to read texts effortlessly without having to pause. Speed, accuracy, and proper pronunciation are the three key components of reading fluency. Several types of reading skills go into developing fluency in…
It’s back to school season, teachers! You know what that means… Lots of introductions, icebreakers, and getting to know your new students on a personal and academic level. It also means that students will begin to build their classroom community, setting the tone for the rest of the school year! I am a firm believer…
I love doing classroom transformations! They are a great way to keep interest levels up. The students are engaged throughout the day, and they are making memories that last a lifetime. These are the types of things that my students remember from 1st grade. I am WAY TOO BUSY to spend a lot of time…
If you’ve been around here for awhile, you’ve probably come across my Bat Cave Day Classroom Transformation. It is one of my absolute favorite days in my classroom. My first graders get so excited and talk about it for the rest of the school year. One of the questions that I am usually asked is,…
As teachers, we know the importance of building classroom community and having our students engaged in classroom discussions. These Roll and Talk boards are the perfect way to get your students talking with each other. These can be used in partners, small group, or whole group discussions.
