Primary Teacher Friends Podcast

Hey there, teacher friend!The last couple episodes, we've talked about SuperStar Teachers and what sets them apart from even the great teachers. Today, let's get even more specific about what exactly makes a teacher a SuperStar and how to claim that identity. It's not about the recognition, but don't we want to make an impact so big people do appreciate us?Today I'm going to:Define what a SuperStar Teacher isOutline the qualities of a SuperStar TeacherGuide you on how to become a SuperStar TeacherI'm working really hard on a training that will be ready soon. The SuperStar Teacher Strategy is a PD that you'll actually enjoy, because it will give you the actions to take to become a SuperStar Teacher. If you want to join the waitlist and be the first to hear when it's open, head over HERE.In the meantime, if you missed any of the last three episodes below, they're also about SuperStar Teachers and will give you a great place to start for this new school year.The BEST Teachers DO THISManagement v. Relationships: Which is KING?3 Ways to Make Families LOVE YouTeacher, are you ready to be a SuperStar? You're already pretty awesome, and I'd love to see you keep growing. So come back for the next episode, and I hope to see you in the SuperStar Teacher Strategy soon.Keep making your difference, teacher friend!

Teacher friend, I hope you're enjoying our series on relationships. If you missed the first two episodes, be sure to check them out.Today, I'm sharing three of my favorite tactics to build strong, beautiful relationships with the families of your students, including my all-time #1 tip.I know relationships are important, and I know you know that, too. But some years, like last year for me, a lot of stuff happens and although the effort I put into building these connections served me well, I'm not satisfied with those results for this year.So, here are three ways I'll be connecting with students' families! Want to join me? If you want more action items to take like today's episode, think about joining the waitlist for The Superstar Teacher Strategy. That just means you'll be notified first when it's ready!All right teacher, let's do this!Links from today's episode:Episode 1: The BEST Teachers DO THISEpisode 2: Management v. Relationships: Which is KING?Burnout Buster Series Part 2: Find Your WhyThe Superstar Teacher Strategy

Hey there, teacher friend! We're about to dive into another episode about relationships. If you missed last week's episode, go back and catch it! We talked about how the best teachers make relationships a priority.Today, we're going to look at how classroom management and relationships are related. I used to think they were pretty much the same.They're not!Let's make sure we understand the difference between them, and how they work together, so we can use them both effectively.Are you ready? Let's do it!I'd love to hear from you! What did you think about today's episode? Send a quick email and we'll chat! toni@teachertoni.com

Hey there, teacher friend! How's that best summer ever going?I hope you've been able to get some rest and renewal like we talked about in our Best Summer Ever! series (Episode 1 is here in case you missed it).Now about the start to the new school year...I know, I know, it's only JULY but I can't help myself! I love education, and I want us to have an awesome school year.https://teacher-toni.ck.page/87efd11e92Since we're here and dedicating time to being better teachers, why not try to be the best? The best teachers I know have something in common. I won't spoil it here, but I'm sure you already know it's important, too. Now, we just have to figure out how to grow in that area!That's what we're going to start working on today. If today's episode is helpful, think about joining the waitlist for my upcoming PD, the SuperStar Teacher Strategy. That doesn't mean a commitment, just that you'll be the first to know when it's available.Are you ready to take another step toward being one of the BEST teachers?Let's do it!SuperStar Teacher Strategy Waitlist

Teacher, we're on the last episode of our series! This might be the most important one, because it will be key to making sure you're energized in August for the start of a new year.Let's look at things that aren't serving us well and work on them. If it didn't work for you this past year, expect the same this year. But don't worry! I've got you. Here's how we're going to fix some of those problem areas for a better start this year. If you want accountability, email me your answers to the assignment in the podcast (toni@teachertoni.com) and I'll send you back some motivation!By the way, I have a seven-day SuperStar Teacher course coming up in June, and the wait list is open! If one of your areas for improvement is relationships with students and their families, we can work on that together. If you want to sign up for more information, just go to the link below!Now, let's wrap up this series and get you on to your BEST SUMMER EVER!Helpful Links:SuperStar Teacher WaitlistBEST SUMMER EVER: Part 2 - Rest BEST SUMMER EVER: Part 1 - Routine Summer in Sight:- Part 1: Purpose- Part 2: Passion- Part 3: PerseveranceFinish With Joy:- Part 1: Joy-Rooted Reflection- Part 2: Eliminate for Joy- Part 3: Joy-Centered Design- Part 4: Joy-Guided Development

Teacher Friend, summer break is an amazing perk of our profession. We work hard, and we need it! So let's make the most of it.Part 2 of this series is all about finding ways to exchange habits that don't serve us well with alternatives that are more restful.After all, when we go back to school in August, we need to be recharged physically and emotionally for our next group of students.So, let's break down those habits that are stealing our rest. Are you ready?

Teacher Friend, summer is coming! I can smell the honeysuckle, taste the lemonade, and hear the alarm clock waking me up!Wait, did I miss something??Nope! Because guess what? The way to have your best summer EVER is to use routines! Don't worry, I'm not here to crash your dreams of rest and relaxation. I'm actually going to help you find more of it while having a fulfilling summer that gets you ready for the start of the next school year.This doesn't mean a rigid, down to the minute schedule. Actually, I recommend NOT planning your summer that way. I have another technique for you instead.So, are you ready to start this series on making this the best summer ever? Let's do it!If you want more encouragement and a community around you, check out our Facebook group!

Hey there, Teacher! Today's topic is a heavy one, but I truly believe that it is worth considering. It's easy to go through the routine of first bell, morning classes, special classes, lunch, recess, and bus duty and lose track of what we're doing along the way.Today, let's reverse engineer your teacher eulogy. This will put in crystal clear perspective what is important to you as a teacher so you can focus on those aspects during your day.Are you ready for this quick episode? Let's go!Ready for some more motivation and encouragement? Try these episodes:Three Gifts I Appreciate Because of the 2022 FloodEmbrace These Three Positive Teacher TraitsMy Untold Joyful Teacher SecretsMy 2-Step Process to Tackle Teacher OverwhelmMy Heart's Letter to Primary Teachers

Teacher, it's coming! It's almost here! The end of the school year!We've worked so hard all year that it would be a shame to not celebrate, don't you think? It's our last chance to connect with our students' families and acknowledge all the progress of this year.Today, let's plan an end of year Grand Family Finale. It can be as simple or in-depth as you choose, but I'll share some points to consider in your celebration.When I taught kindergarten, I hosted an Alphabet Parade, and it was one of the most enjoyable events I've organized. There's a resource for that down below as well as some other posts on family relationships.Teacher, this is our chance to put an epic finish line banner at the end of this year. Let's do it!Resources in today's episode:Bookmark & Picture Gift Memento Alphabet Parade TpT resourceAlphabet Parade blog postMy Secret Weapon to Supercharge Family Connections blog post or podcast episode Building Parent Partnerships blog post or podcast episodeNurturing Parent Partnerships blog post or podcast episode3 Ways to Make Sure Parents Love You blog post or podcast episode5 Tips for Giving Bad News to Parents blog post or podcast episode

Teacher, it's time for some strategies! If you missed the last episode, make sure and listen to Part 1 first. If you're ready for actions you can take, this short and sweet episode will get you started.Today, we're talking about how to actively handle this situation.Investigate - Take an honest look at what is going on. Ask people with experience for guidance.Plan - It's going to take some thought to create an environment for this full-sun flower to thrive.Implement - The best plan in the world won't do any good if you don't start (and stick to) it!Teacher, I believe in you. Let's get you ready to navigate having students who make you want to quit!Links mentioned:The Kid Who Makes You Want to Quit: Part 1My Secret Weapon to Nurture Student Connections - Podcast and Blog PostBe a Tiny Human Tamer - Podcast and Blog PostUndeniable Reasons to Quit Teaching - Podcast and Blog Post

Teacher, today's topic is an icky subject, but it's so important. That's because it has, or will, happen to all of us! You know that kid, or kids, that make you want to quit? It hurts my heart to admit it, but it happens!When this kid gains ground in your thoughts so much that your reactions are based more on feelings than thoughts, it's time for a reset. Maybe you can't fix the situation. What you can control is yourself.I'm here to tell you that thoughts are powerful. Come with me for a mindset shift that won't make everything glitter and rainbows, but it will give you motivation, purpose, and help you finish the year with that child with impact.Don't forget to come back for Part 2 for strategies!https://teachertoni.com/

Teacher Friend, I see you over there caring for everyone in your teaching world. You place so much value on your students, their families, your coworkers, and your administrators. That's a good thing!But what happens when you try to do so many things for so many people? Overwhelm. Burnout. Those might as well be four letter words, and you don't need any part of them!So how about we set some boundaries together? This is teacher selfcare, and it isn't selfish at all. When you're at your best for the things that you do, you and the people you are pouring into are better off.Let's do it!If you need more like this, check out these posts:Burnout Buster Series Part 1: Anchor ThoughtsMy 2-Step Process to Tackle Teacher OverwhelmCore Beliefs of the Most Effective Primary TeachersFind Your Teacher CheerleadersDear Tired TeacherSelf Care for the Primary Teacher's Soul

Hello Teacher Friend! It's been a while, but I am back, and I'm so happy to get to talk with you again. I'm going to share why I've been away and how I've grown in the meantime.Today I'm sharing three tips for teaching in harmony.Be in harmony with your timeSee the harmony in every dayBe in harmony with your purpose and passionReady to talk about what each of these mean for you? Let's dive right in and make you a more joyful teacher TODAY!If you're not on the Teacher Toni email list, join HERE to stay up to date on episodes, content offerings, and what's in store for us in this grand adventure that is teaching.Let's do it!www.teachertoni.com/subscribe

Now that we've got a solid foundation under us, let's add on the other layers of classroom management so that our teacher sunflower can sink its roots deep down and thrive.It all started with last episode's bedrock principles. Now, we're going to talk about three other layers of classroom management that will lead to a joyful, efficient, wonderful place for our students, and ourselves, to thrive.The key is to choose one layer at a time to focus on. Don't get overwhelmed by trying to tackle them all at once. Pick the one that needs the most work and start there. You can do it!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post (with illustration of Layers of Joyful Management Framework)Last week's blog postJoyful Teacher Academy waitlist

If classroom management is a big, scary, eyeballs all over the place, monster of a blob to you, then this episode is for you! To be honest, my first few years of teaching, I thought a prize box and candy were the key to classroom management.I have learned better.And today, I'm going to help you on your journey to taming classroom management. I'm going to show you the framework I use that keeps my students well managed, engaged, and adds to my teacher joy. We'll start with the most fundamental aspect of classroom management and next week we'll work our way up.I promise, you can tame the classroom management blob too!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postJoyful Teacher Academy waitlist

Teacher, last week we talked about building connections with our students' families. While these may be the most important connections, that doesn't mean we focus on our students any less.Today's strategy will not only help us build connections with students, it will actually strengthen those connections with families, and it gives them a lifelong skill.Depression and anxiety are major problems in our country, and they are affecting our precious students as well. One of the culprits is negative self-talk. I used to do it, and I'm betting you do or did too. It's natural, but it is not helpful.I'm going to share how we can teach our students to combat that while they are young. Imagine being able to encourage themselves from childhood!Are you ready? (Don't forget to grab your FREE downloads below!)Links in today's episode:Today's blog postLast week's blog post - Family ConnectionsClassroom Mantra Starter KitSEL ToolkitSEL blog postJoyful Teacher Academy Waitlist

Hey there, teacher! How about a secret weapon to deepen those relationships with the families of your students? This is super effective, and it isn't complicated at all!Today I'm sharing three strategies to use your voice to connect with families. Think about how powerful a conversation is with someone you care about. Now imagine that your students' families get to hear your voice regularly.I'm going to show you how to make this efficient and manageable, because I know you have a full plate. Are you ready?Links in today's episode:Today's blog postLast week's blog postYouTube channelJoyful Teacher Academy waitlist

 Dear Teacher, I'm back! Since the last time we chatted, the area in the Appalachians where I live has endured a historic flood. There has been so much devastation, loss, and grief.Today, I'm sharing my story, because I think it may encourage you. You see, there are three things in particular that I appreciate so much more now. More than likely, you have these gifts right now. So let's take a minute to be grateful for these precious gifts and let them motivate you as a brand new school year is underway.Links in today's episode:Today's blog postYouTube Channel

Teacher, we're at the end of our series! This is the perfect way to end out your school year. Today's episode will fuel you up so you're ready to start a new year.Don't worry, this won't eat up your entire summer. But focusing purposefully over the summer will let you have pool time, family time, and jump start you for August.Are you ready?Links for today's episode:Today's blog post

You have stressors. I have stressors. All of us primary teachers have stressors.That's no secret. But what you may not know is that we can make them work for us. Those stressors can help us create a year with more joy than the last. If we put our focus there, we can design solutions so those stressors don't continue to steal our joy.This third episode in our series will have you ready to tackle the parts of your day that you dread the most. Imagine walking back into your classroom in August with brand new pens, notebooks, and a plan to keep those stressors under control!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post (with free workbook)

Teacher, your time is precious! This week, we're going to talk about how to eliminate the excess in your day. When you try to juggle too many things, some of them are bound to fall.I can almost hear you saying, "But Toni, if I don't get everything done, the world will fall apart."My friend, I promise you it won't. Come along with me and let's zero in on what matters most so you can make YOUR biggest impact. Let's tame that to do list together!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post (with free workbook)

Teacher, we've almost made it to summer! These last few weeks are always so hectic, and to be completely honest, I'm having to budget my time more carefully than ever. So, we're going to do a recap of one of my favorite series that is completely relevant right now.The end of the year is so busy. But what if we could finish with more joy, a brighter spirit and ensure that our upcoming year will have a fresh, well planned beginning? That is my hope for you.I actually go through a process each year that gives me this hope, energy and sustainability to finish the year with joy. In this four part series, we're going to harness the positivity needed to finish this year out joyfully. If that sounds like a plan, you need to stick with me today. Are you ready?Be sure to grab the downloadable workbook from the link below!Links in today's episode:Blog post (with downloadable Finish With Joy workbook)

Teacher, teacher, someone cut line! Someone is talking in the hall! Someone tore a piece from a bulletin board! Someone is running!Oh, doesn't that just make chills run up your neck?Guess what? That doesn't have to be your class!I've developed some hallway behavior hacks this year, because it's the first year I've had to walk long distances through the school with my class. And today, I'm going to share them with you!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post3 Top Secret Management TricksHow I Dumped My Prize Box

Teacher, if you feel like your get up and go has walked off without you, this episode is for you.This is the final part of our Summer-in-Sight series to help you finish the year with joy. If you missed the first two episodes, I highly recommend starting there. I'll be here for you when you're ready!Today, I'm sharing my top three strategies for teacher perseverance. It's easy to look around at other teachers with their perfect bulletin boards and well-managed classrooms and think, If I was really good at this, it would be easy.Not true!Teaching is hard. Recognizing that it's not easy doesn't mean you aren't meant to teach. Actually, being concerned about whether you're doing a good job can be a good thing. It means you care. But don't let the lie that it should be easy steal your joy!Let me show you how you can keep going and finish the year making a difference for your little learners.Links in today's episode:Today's blog postSummer-in-Sight Series: PassionBurnout Buster Series: Anchor Thoughtstoni@teachertoni.com - email me about coaching!

Teacher, I see you trying to keep that smile as big as it was in the exciting days of the beginning of the year. Trying to keep your enthusiasm up for your lessons. Giving it your all.But at this point in the year, let's be honest, we're tired. Our excitement is harder to get a hold of.In spite of all that, we can finish the year strong, with joy and passion.Links in today's episode:Today's blog postPart 1: Purposetoni@teachertoni.com - email to ask about coaching

First, welcome to our podcast's new identity! I'm so excited to have our adventure stated clearly and to go on it with you.Teacher, summer is coming. I used to count the days down until break started and dread every last one of them. But we have time left to make an impact! Let's see this year through with focus and joy.So today, we're talking about purpose. And I don't mean, "I teach because I want children to learn." We're not looking for surface level purpose here.By the end of this episode, you'll know how to uncover YOUR purpose. Your unique purpose, your reason for teaching, can fuel you from deep within and keep your passion going even on hard days.Are you ready?Links in today's episode:Today's blog post (with more detailed questions)toni@teachertoni.com (email me about coaching)

Teacher friend, you are among the best of primary teachers. I know that, because you're here in your spare time. You're dedicating yourself to growing. You're keeping on going.Maybe you don't fully realize it, but I know you have these three positive traits, just because you're here.Too often what we do wrong is pointed out without what we do well being acknowledged. Just like we can grow in weak areas, leaning in to our strengths can make us that much more effective.I also have an exciting announcement! The podcast is getting a new name, and I'm going to share it with you today!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post

Teacher friend, is your prize box an asset to your classroom, or do you feel like it's a high maintenance relationship?I decided years ago it just wasn't working out between us, so I dumped my prize box. If you want more time and money to focus on things that have a big impact, you can do it too!Students really want to be appreciated and recognized for just being themselves. That's at the heart of the strategies I'll share with you today. Here's how I still motivate my classroom, even without a prize box!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postSurvey to name the podcastCheer CardsPositive Notes HomePrimary Teacher Friends Facebook Group

Teacher friend, does your classroom noise level drive you distracted? Wouldn't it be awesome to have a mute button?The bad news is that there is no mute button. The good news is there is a solution!Today, I'm going to share my strategies to keep your classroom on mute. What you need is a well planned system. We're going to put layers in place to block out that noise!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postSurvey to name the podcastHand Signals postersMusic Box post

Primary teacher, your curriculum is not the most important thing in your classroom. You are!So if you have a brand new curriculum that's driving you crazy, or an old one that you just hate, let me share how I'm coping with curriculums I don't love.Maybe you feel like there's no room for YOU in your class.There is!Maybe it seems like you can never beat the curriculum because there are Just. So. Many. Things.You don't have to be perfect!Come on over and let's keep that teacher joy, in spite of curriculums.Links in today's episode:Today's blog postJoyful Teacher AcademySurvey for podcast nameSpelling games (Beat the Baby/Granny/Cupid...)

Sweet teacher, I'm so excited for today's episode! I've got a big, happy announcement.Joyful Teacher Academy is LIVE!This has been a project of my teacher heart for months, and I can't believe I can finally share it with you.If you're facing overwhelm, burnout, have lost your teaching joy, or never found the joy in teaching you thought you would, this one's for you.Don't give up on teaching until you've given this a try. Our kiddos need you!Joyful Teacher Academy is a one-of-a-kind, online professional development. I'll lead you through mindset shifts and teach you strategies to make your teacher life more joyful and impactful.Let me show you how!Links in today's episode:Joyful Teacher AcademyToday's blog postBye, Bye Burnout FREE webinarBurnout Buster series part 3: Growth

Teacher, if you're feeling burned out, overwhelmed, constantly tired, and not getting the joy from teaching you expected, let's bust that burnout!Just like engines need fuel to keep going, your teacher heart needs fuel too. So today, we're going to talk about what that fuel is and how you can beat burnout.I know this works, because it's how I was able to pull myself out of burnout several years ago. I know it can work for you too.Plus, I'm inviting you to join me for a live webinar that dives deeper into burnout busting strategies that I'm hosting over the next couple weeks. You won't want to miss it!Links in today's episode:Today's episodeBurnout Buster Series Part 1: Anchor ThoughtsBurnout Buster Series Part 2: Find Your Whyteachertoni.com/byebye - register for FREE webinar

Teacher, do you feel like the wheels on your teacher bus just aren't going 'round and 'round like they should? Is the magic of teaching fading?If you're wondering how you can possibly finish this year, start next year knowing what's coming, or even return to work if you're taking a break, this series will get those wheels rolling again.Just like jets need fuel to keep going, you do too! And your fuel as a teacher is your WHY.It's your purpose. The reason you started teaching in the first place, or maybe a deeper understanding you've developed along the way.The thing is, sometimes that gets buried in the to do lists and overwhelm. Believe me, I know it too.So today, let's dust off your why and fuel your engine!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postEpisode 72 - Burnout Buster Series Part 1: Anchor ThoughtsJoyful Teacher Academy waitlist

Hey there teacher!Are you already counting down the days until spring break? Summer break? Do you feel like your mind is spinning in a dozen directions at once? Are you just about ready to jump ship to another career?I've been there.The good news is that I'm not now. The better news is I know what it takes to help you pull out of the pit of burnout, and that's what we're going to do! The next several episodes will focus on ways to bust burnout, starting today with a strategy you can implement NOW.Today is all about anchor thoughts, because one thing we can control (even though it isn't easy) is our thoughts.Let's get to it!

Teacher, the race to Christmas break is on! If your brain feels like it's about to pop from trying to hold all the things inside, this episode is meant for you.Today, let's tackle the idea of closing some of those thoughts and putting them away. We'll either store them or toss them out to make space for what's most important.Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's blog postEpisode 70 - free productEpisode 65 - two step process to tackle overwhelmtoni@teachertoni.com - email to request free 30 minute coaching sessionBeat the Baby - growing bundlePhast Phonics

Is your primary class' spelling word practice fun and engaging? Do your students ask to practice their spelling words AGAIN?To be completely honest, spelling word practice used to be boring in my classroom. It took up too much time and my kiddos just didn't like it. Literacy is so important, and I want my students to love words.So I put on my thinking cap and cracked the spelling word practice code. Now I have a routine that is highly engaging, fun, and super easy to use every day. Sound too good to be true? I promise you, it's not. My students ask me regularly to practice their spelling words because they enjoy the routine that much. If it can work on my kiddos, I know it can work for yours too.Links in today's episode: Today's blog postPhast PhonicsEpisode 69 - character pointsGrowing Beat the ____ Bundle

Teacher, are you losing time and maybe a little sanity every time your primary students have to transition from one activity to another?It's no secret that I love classroom management, and this is an area that is often noticed during observations. People are amazed by how well my students transition and how little time they take to do it.Today, I'm going to share five tips for seamless classroom transitions so you can make every second count in your classroom.Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's blog postEpisode 67 - about my coachEpisode 68 - Tiny Human Tamer episodeTop Secret Classroom Management Tricks videoCheer Cards

The first time I went to the circus, I was fascinated by the tiger tamer. He made it look so easy to keep a wild animal under control.Today, I want to tell you that you do something even more amazing every single day that you walk in your primary classroom. You are a tiny human tamer!Maybe you feel like what you do really isn't that special, but trust me, it is. Most people can't imagine being able to do what you do. We're humble around here, but today, I want you to realize that you are fantastic.Links in today's episode:Today's blog post3 Top Secret Classroom Management Tricks blog postEssentials for Student Engagement blog postJoyful Teacher Academy

People often ask how I'm so joyful all the time. So, I thought I'd share how I find, and keep, my joy in teaching!If you're like me, October was EXHAUSTING. We're looking ahead to Thanksgiving and Christmas break and thinking, "If I can just make it until then..."Does that sound familiar? If so, this episode is definitely for you!Every single day is precious, not just for ourselves, but for the little ones we teach. We don't want to just wish our time away, right?So, here are my secrets to being a joyful teacher! Psst, there's also a super exciting announcement at the end!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post

Teacher, how are your students doing with their foundational skills?In today's episode, I'm going to share a real teacher struggle moment I had recently. The short version is my students did NOT master CVC words after I taught them with our district's curriculum. So, it was time to go back to my tried and true method: routines. Routines are incredibly powerful. With a little time every day, we can practice the most important concepts, and our students can master them.Here's how I'm doing it!Links in today's epiosde:Today's blog postPhast Phonics routineDaily Write It sentence routine

Teacher, overwhelm is real. It's been at an all time high for me recently, and I know I can't be the only one!Overwhelm comes from having too many things in our brain at once. While I can't tell you we can eliminate deadlines, items on the to-do list, and other responsibilities, I can promise there's a way to manage it.I'm going to share my 2-step process with you that I use weekly. It's how I keep my overwhelm in check, hold on to my teaching joy, and get done what's most important without constantly feeling stuck.Are you ready? Let's get your overwhelm under control!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postJoyful Teacher Academy wait list

Teacher, are your primary kiddos consumed by the excitement of Halloween? Mine sure are!The good news is, we can harness that excitement and use it to our advantage. Halloween doesn't have to wreck our classroom management, and with these five strategies, you can actually use your students' excitement to motivate positive behaviors and learning.Some of these strategies will require a little prep, but some are free and you can use today.Ready? Let's go!Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's blog postBlog post with free Halloween Word Works trial

Teacher, has your class turned chatty?It's that time of year when the newness of the year wears off. Students aren't as engaged and they're talking more to their friends even at inconvenient times. Maybe it leaves you with your head in your hands at the end of the day wondering if you can do it all over again.I'm here to tell you that you can. I've had help from other teachers, and I'm going to pass that on to you. So here's today's strategy to quieten your classroom! It's all about a music box.Links in today's episode:Today's blog post (with Fun Friday ideas download)Happy BagPrimary Teacher Friends Facebook group

Teacher, do your students begin writing the number 5 from the bottom? Do you seen that brief but disruptive moment of distraction when they are writing down a math problem and have to stop to think about how to actually WRITE the math problem?Number formation is an important link between learning what the numbers are to being able to master using them. Today, I'm going to share a few math routines that are super fun, engaging, and effective! It's amazing how often those three go together, isn't it? :)Are you ready?Links in today's episode:Today's blog postFree Number Formation Routine download (wait a moment for the form to appear)Teen Number Writing Routine downloadKindergarten Math Works

Teacher, if your class ROOM is a distraction, it may be time to give it a quick tidy! Bits of paper on desks and pencils on the floor may not seem like a huge problem, but can you really focus on what's most important if your surroundings are a mess? It takes away our pride in where we are, and it affects our students too!If you're thinking, But Toni, I just don't have time to keep everything picture perfect every single day! I'd say, you're absolutely right. You don't, and you shouldn't.Here's how to make it happen without taking all that responsibility on yourself. I'll give you a hint: get your class involved, but make it fun.If you're ready to whistle while we work, let's get those classrooms tidy!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postSpring Classroom Management Cleanup blog post (with more on Table Points)Spring Classroom Management Cleanup podcast episodePrimary Teacher Friends Facebook Group

Teacher, sight-word practice can be your students' favorite part of the day. My students have told me they love this time!Sight-word instruction does not have to be passive. In fact, it shouldn't be! If you missed the previous episode, let me encourage you to start there. Motivation is so important, so let's place the foundation first.In Part 2 today, I'm going to share four of my students' favorite strategies and a resource with even more. Teaching virtually? I've got strategies that work for both in person and distant learning.Are you ready to throw some engagement glitter all over sight-word practice? Let's do it!Links in today's episode:Blog Post Parts 1 and 2Sight-Word Engagement GuideVirtual Sight-Word Blog Post

Does that notoriously long sight-word list just drain the joy right out of teaching?I've been there, and I solved that problem! Pull up a desk chair and I'll let you in on the secrets.Are you ready?It starts with a motivating system. I'll tell you what's important if you want to make your own, or you can check out the one I designed and use in my classroom. With this system, students will actually want to take their next sight-word test. I promise it's true!Don't forget to come back next week for an episode all about specific sight-word strategies.Links in today's episode:Rainbow Sight-Word systemToday's blog postEpisode 13 - virtual sight-word strategiesVirtual Sight-Word Strategies blog post

Teacher, I'm going to be super honest for a second. We all have areas of teaching that we know are necessary, but they're not exactly fun for our students. Sentence writing used to be one of those areas for me.But not anymore! After cracking the code, students have actually cheered when it was time for sentence writing practice. Don't take my word for it; that's from a review from a fellow teacher.So get ready to write down the top secret password, because I'm going to share how you can have a class full of primary students eagerly practicing sentence writing. If you're on a tight budget, I'll tell you how to get there for free. If you're looking for a low-prep solution and just want to dive straight in, I've got you covered.We'll use routines, cues, rewards, and more to not only make sentence writing a favorite part of the day, but to help students become independent in this vital skill. Let's get to it!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postHow to Teach Sentence Writing (previous blog post)Free Sentence Writing ToolkitDaily Write-It Packs on Teachers Pay Teachers

Teacher friend, I know you're working so hard to build parent partnerships. It's vital to having a successful, joyful year!Without nurturing those partnerships though, all the work won't pay off. So today, we're going to go over exactly how to keep those partnerships going strong. I've got five tips for you, everything from office hours to newsletters.Plus, I've got two freebies to share to save you time and help you connect with your students' families. Be sure to check the link below or hop by the blog to grab them. Keep making a difference, you awesome difference maker!Links in today's episode:Nurturing Parent Partnerships (today's post with contact card and newsletter template)Building Parent Partnerships (Part 1 from last week)Virtual Classroom Survival GuideJoyful Teacher Academy

If you're looking for one of the keys to a super awesome year, it's not perfect lesson planning or perfect activities or even perfect resources.It comes from parent partnerships. In this episode we're talking about building parent partnerships, and next week we'll learn about nurturing them.Today we'll cover first impressions, how to make first meetings about families spectacular, using body language, being a dream teacher, and more.With parents on our team, this will be an epic year!Links in today's episode:Today's blog post (including letter template)Finding Cheerleaders post

Let's bring some joy to your classroom management! Simplicity is king when it comes to teaching. It's so easy to get caught up in the frilly, enticing things, but they complicate our lives and take our teaching time.Let's simplify your classroom management. We're going to talk about class rules, how to make homework work for you, the wonderful world of hand signals, the easier way to do classroom jobs, and how to declutter your classroom.Plus, a little update about the Joyful Teacher Academy!Links in today's episode:Today's blog postFinish With Joy seriesUltimate Guide to Simple Class RulesFree Hand Signal PostersJoyful Teacher Academy