The Teaching Made Easy Podcast

In early elementary, we spend a lot of time talking about letters and phonics. However, we can't just talk about them. We have to engage our students so they really learn the concepts of phonics. That's why phonics intervention activities play a vital role in developing strong reading and literacy skills in children from kindergarten to 2nd grade. By focusing on phonemic awareness and phonics decoding, these activities help students in early elementary build the skills all students need to be fluent readers who are great at comprehension.  Need activities that are engaging and effective? Well, you're in the right place! Listen now to learn more.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Testing is always a stressful time of year. When it's all over, it's easy to breathe a sigh of relief and start to slowly do less. However, we all know it's super important to make sure our student's learning doesn't pause just because the tests are submitted. While tests help us measure what students have learned, we all know the real magic happens when we continue learning after testing in elementary classrooms because learning never stops.   --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Mother's Day is around the corner which means it's time for some fun Mother's Day activities for elementary students! If you're stuck and can't think of something to do, you've landed in the right place! From crafting unique DIY projects and custom cards to whipping up delicious recipes in the kitchen, there are so many ways for your students to show love and appreciation to the mother figure in their lives!  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Science is super fun and what is more scientifically fueled than the weather? Well, you and your students can find out with weather science experiments! In this article, I have five easy weather science experiments that are engaging for your elementary students. Plus, they will all pump up those critical thinking skills while giving your students hands-on tasks! What experiments can do all that? Listen now to find out! Article and Links --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Science is so much fun, especially for our preschool and kindergarten students. However, finding engaging and educational activities to teach preschool and kindergarten students about plants and flowers can be time-consuming. That's why we are here! So, if you're a teacher, parent, or grandparent who wants to teach your preschool and kindergarten students about plants and flowers, then you are in the right place! Keep listening for fun hands-on activities that will not only capture the attention of young learners but also help them develop a deeper understanding of the natural world around them. ARTICLE and LINKS  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Celebrate Spring with engaging and fun Earth Day projects for elementary students. We all love a good project that students can collaborate on while exercising their critical thinking skills, but it can be hard to come up with ideas and plan them effectively. That's why you have us!  We are here to help with exciting Earth Day projects that will not only teach your students about the importance of environmental conservation but also provide them with hands-on learning experiences they won't forget!  ARTICLE and LINKS --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Do your students get stuck when it comes to spelling and pronunciation? These can be tricky concepts for students to learn, but the key to mastering spelling and pronunciation is in the powerful method of phonics dictation. By cracking the code of phonics, your students can unlock the secrets of the English language which will help them improve their spelling and pronunciation skills. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Teaching fractions isn't always as easy as pie. But, it doesn't have to be a drag! You can liven up your math lessons with these fun and effective approaches to teaching fractions! Why do that? Well, finding engaging methods to teach fractions can make all the difference in terms of understanding and retention. Let's explore how to teach fractions using creative and interactive strategies that will help your students grasp fractions in a way that is stinkin 'simple!  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Are you ready to take your reading lessons to the next level? Imagine making every story a treasure hunt where your students are finding deeper meaning. In this article, we'll be diving into the world of main ideas and supporting details. Not sure what this looks like in your classroom? Keep listening to learn tips for teaching the main idea in lower elementary, and creating students who are comprehension champions! Article and Links Mentioned  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Have you ever felt like teaching telling time  to your K-3 students is more challenging than solving a Rubik's Cube? There are so many rules that it can be difficult for students to understand, but it doesn't have to be so difficult! I have game-changing strategies for teaching telling time that are sure to get your students excited and engaged! From creating your own classroom clocks to a time-based scavenger hunt, we've got you covered! How do you make teaching time-telling the highlight of your day? Keep listening to find out!  Article and Links --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

How many times have you had students decode words but not understand what they mean? Comprehension is a huge part of reading. Whether you are teaching kindergarten students who are just starting their reading journey or guiding second graders toward a deeper understanding of words, the science of reading comprehension strategies has your back!  When you use the science of reading, a method that blends decoding words with comprehension of them, you are increasing students' comprehension skills with ease by using fun activities that will keep students engaged!  Article and Links --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

The world of education is demanding. We all know this. As a teacher, you are juggling so many responsibilities! That's why knowing the power of habits is transformative. We're not just talking about habits in your classroom, we're talking about YOUR habits such as: hydration, nutrition, and yes, even how to turn your classroom into a wellness sanctuary. Inspired by “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, I want to share healthy habits for teachers that will have you not just surviving but flourishing in the teaching world! Keep reading!  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

The snow is falling; it's raining outside; the temperatures are plummeting below zero and you hear those dreaded words, “indoor recess.” How are you going to keep young minds engaged and bodies active all while staying inside your classroom? Indoor recess doesn't have to just be a backup plan; it can be an opportunity to foster creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning in a different setting. How do you do it? Let's jump into indoor recess ideas and strategies that will make it a time of joy and learning.  Show Notes and Links --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

As winter settles in and the excitement of a new school year and the holidays dwindles, many teachers face a mid-year slump. It's usually a time marked by less enthusiasm and energy for teachers and students. However, this can be beat! With the right strategies and resources, this challenging time can be transformed into renewed excitement and effective learning. Want to know how? Listen now for helpful tips and techniques for overcoming the mid-year slump!  Show Notes and Links --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

When it comes to math, we know that number recognition and basic addition and subtraction are super important. But when it comes to learning higher-level math skills, our students need to be exposed to multiplication! Knowing and using strategies for teaching multiplication in the classroom puts students on a direct path to higher-level math concepts. What tips and strategies should you be using? Listen to find out!  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

You're in a spelling lesson, and you start teaching your students words like “magic” or “bicycle” which are both major rule breakers! Your student might look confused and start to second-guess what they know about phonics. Spelling can be a tricky part of learning, but it doesn't have to be! These common phonics spelling rules go way back to when I was in school. I used them with my own students over the past 25 years and guess what, they worked! Need to know more? Listen Now! Shownotes and Links --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Hopefully during break you have had time to relax, unwind, and enjoy times with friends, family, and doing a few fun things just for you. While breaks are great, the “Sunday Scaries” start to creep in once the celebrations wrap up. Making the shift from holiday mode back to teaching mode can be rough! But, as usual, I have some foolproof post-holiday transition tips for teachers to help you not only survive but THRIVE when you get back to school.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Are you getting the winter-break worries? That first week back after winter break can be a tough one! But it doesn't have to be! Hey there, Education Rockstars! The first week of school after winter break is upon us. We've all rested, relaxed, and maybe had one too many cookies. However, it's time to switch gears. How can you make that transition as smooth? How do you get back into the groove? Well, you use these five simple strategies! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Winter break is just around the corner which means it's time to sit back and relax…I mean be productive…no relax…no be productive. If this sounds like you, you're not alone! It's hard to try to relax when you feel like you should be working on things at home or getting ahead for the following semester. However, you can make the most of winter break with these great tips! Keep reading to crush Winter Break!  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover how to create an inclusive classroom this December with tips on cultural representation, avoiding stereotypes, and fostering a welcoming environment. SHOW NOTES and LINKS --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Hey, ya'll it is that time of year…December! While it may be the most wonderful time of the year, the excitement, the sugar, and the burnout are real! All of this combined can lead to a chaotic month for your classroom. If this sounds like you, you're not alone. December is one of the most challenging months in the school year even though it's fun-filled as well. However, it doesn't have to be! I have great tips for surviving December in the classroom. So, grab a cup of hot chocolate and read on!  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Do you feel like you're letting some students fall through the cracks when thinking about how individualized your instructions are? We have so many students in our classroom working at various levels. This makes it hard to make sure everyone is getting exactly what he/she needs. However, you don't have to worry if you are creating groups for small-group instruction in a methodical way. What does that mean and how do you do it? Let's chat! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Everyone loves being gone from school, right? It's a day of no stress, right? If you're anything like me, being at school is always way easier than being gone. It's difficult to put our classroom into another's hands. If that's how you feel, you are not alone. However, organizing sub plans for your classroom before you need one doesn't have to be a big task, and it can really take the pressure off of being gone. Want to know how to have a stress-free day off? Let's talk about how organizing sub plans for your classroom can be stinkin' simple!  SHOW NOTES AND LINKS --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Does your desk ever look like it rained papers, staples, crayons, markers, pens, sticky notes, and more? Well, if you said yes, you are probably a teacher. It's easy for our desk to become an overwhelming dumping ground that brings an overwhelming feeling of dread when we finally get the chance to look at it. However, it doesn't have to be this way! You can use tools for easy teacher desk organization. What is the secret? Keep listening to find out!  SHOW NOTES AND LINKS --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Navigate through the journey of organizing learning activities seamlessly with our guide. Explore the potential of using IRIS Photo Boxes, Zippered Pouches, and IRIS 12x12 Boxes to safeguard each piece of your educational activities, ensuring they're not just well-organized, but also easily accessible and engaging for students. Dive into the blend of practical, tech-savvy, and collaborative strategies that keep the symphony of your educational environment in tune. SHOW NOTES AND LINKS --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Unlock the potential of effective classroom organization with this insightful guide, exploring many physical and digital tools designed to optimize teaching and learning. Dive into practical strategies for selecting and implementing these tools and join a community that values structured, efficient, and vibrant educational environments. SHOW NOTES AND LINKS Got a message for Farrah? Future episode idea? Leave a voice message ⁠HERE⁠! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Boost student engagement in daily classroom routines in your K-5 classroom with these five powerful strategies. This blog post offers actionable examples, including using Farrah Henley Education's Spiral Review Units to turn your classroom into an active learning environment. SHOW NOTES AND LINKS Got a message for Farrah? Future episode idea? Leave a voice message ⁠HERE⁠! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Boost student engagement in your elementary classroom with this comprehensive guide. From tech-savvy tips to budget-friendly creative hacks, discover actionable strategies to make learning more dynamic and enjoyable. SHOW NOTES AND LINKS Got a message for Farrah? Future episode idea? Leave a voice message HERE! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Season 5 is here, and it comes with a whole new look and feel but the same great mission! Discover how to measure classroom engagement in Grades K-5 effectively. From understanding the three core elements to implementing practical examples and even doing it all on a budget, this guide offers a holistic view for educators. Want to leave a message for Farrah? Got a suggestion for a future episode topic? CLICK HERE --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover the ultimate guide to boosting levels of engagement in an elementary classroom. From Drama to Opportunity, learn the four key levels and how to apply them—plus get budget-friendly tips to make magic happen, no matter your resources. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Dive into the world of well-managed classrooms. Discover the key characteristics, foundational principles, and core components that make up these vibrant learning environments. Learn how engagement, consistency, and respect pave the way for academic success. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Unlock the secrets to a harmonious learning environment with this ultimate guide to building a well-managed classroom. Dive deep into the 3 C's, foundational elements, and expert strategies for success. Includes insights on the transformative "Spiral Review" tool for grades 1-3. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover the transformative impact of the three C's of classroom management—connection, consistency, and compassion. Learn how they enhance student learning and find practical strategies for implementation in your classroom. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Explore how classroom centers can boost your classroom management during small group instruction. From math and literacy centers to building a thriving classroom community, we cover it all. Ideal for K-5 teachers looking for strategies to make their classrooms more engaging and manageable. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover the essential guide for K-5 teachers on building a vibrant classroom community. Learn how to foster an inclusive, supportive environment that encourages holistic student growth, complete with practical strategies for achieving this goal. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Kickstart the academic year with our comprehensive guide on the first week of school activities for K-2 teachers. Explore innovative, fun, and educational activities, including our very own Spiral Review in A Snap™, designed to foster an engaging, supportive, and effective learning environment. Show Notes and Links --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Are you a K-5 teacher gearing up for the new school year? Feeling a mix of excitement and nerves about getting everything ready before the first bell rings? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In today's episode, we'll guide you through five key preparation tasks to conquer the week before school starts. From turning your classroom into a learning wonderland, refreshing your curriculum, planning engaging lessons, to establishing a foolproof morning routine and fostering strong parent relationships, we're here to make your back-to-school transition as smooth as possible. Stick around to discover actionable tips that will set you and your students up for a successful year of learning! Show Notes and Links --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Embark on your educational journey with a seasoned teacher as I reveal my favorite classroom must haves for elementary classrooms. Discover how these items can help make your teacher life a little easier! Organized Centers Optin: https://farrahhenley.com/organizedcenterspdf MAGNETIC CURTAIN ROD: https://amzn.to/41UNKDV DRY ERASE POCKETS: https://amzn.to/3MJkqMm JENGA SETS :https://amzn.to/3OpmAlz CEILING HANGERS: https://amzn.to/3pYeeHx ANCHOR CHART PAPER: https://amzn.to/3WlFU5a --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Do you ever feel overwhelmed, isolated, or under-supported on your teaching journey? If you said yes to any of that, you're not alone. Many teachers have felt underappreciated, misunderstood, or isolated within their profession. However, it doesn't have to be that way! By using teacher support networks, you'll have a lifeline for educators worldwide. Now, these aren't just random groups, these are communities and learning centers. More than that, they are an extended teaching family. Using teacher support networks can be the magic ingredient you need to transform your teaching, boost your spirits, and improve teacher retention.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

You have your math and literacy centers organized and ready to go. Now, it's time to implement them. Are you ready to create an organized and engaging learning environment where students can thrive? You're in the right place! In this episode, I'm going to tell you exactly how managing classroom centers will take your classroom to the next level with a few classroom must-haves.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

In one day, a teacher is expected to actively engage students, differentiate instruction, and create a positive environment focused on collaboration. Oh, and you're supposed to juggle all your own teaching responsibilities. Sounds pretty tough, right? What if I said you could do all of the above with a stinkin' simple strategy that works? Curious? Well, listen to learn how you can use math and literacy centers to do it all with ease.  SHOW NOTES AND LINKS --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

It can be hard to truly meet every learner where they are in the classroom. But not anymore! You can have small group learning success during centers. This practice can supercharge your classroom and revolutionize your small group block! So, if you're ready to meet every student where they are in their learning, empower them, boost engagement, and skyrocket their success, then keep listening!  SHOW NOTES AND LINKS Join the Waitlist for The Free Training and Get Your Centers Organized HERE⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover 5 essential self-care tips for teachers to unwind and recharge during summer break, including mental health practices, physical activities, and personal growth goals. SHOW NOTES and LINKS Join the Waitlist for The Free Training and Get Your Centers Organized HERE⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover 7 expert tips for K-5 teachers to strike the perfect balance between back-to-school planning and enjoying a well-deserved summer break. Learn how to prepare for the upcoming school year while recharging and relaxing. SHOW NOTES Join the Waitlist for The Free Training and Get Your Centers Organized HERE⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

 The end of the year can be full of stress, but it's also a time to celebrate! But, we all know, big celebrations take time for planning, set up, and execution. If you're ready to create an end-of-the-year student celebration that's nothing short of spectacular, then you are in the right place! Here are five simple tips to make sure your end-of-the-year celebration is one students will be talking about for years to come.  When it comes time to celebrate the end of the school year, there's a lot to consider. However, with these five simple tips, your event will be the talk of the District. All you need to do is the following:  Plan Ahead  Incorporate Student Input Showcase Student Achievements  Make it Inclusive  Encourage Reflection --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Summer break is right around the corner but is the progress you have made with your students' at risk? Using effective learning strategies before summer break to reinforce student knowledge before summer break can be just what you need to do these last few weeks of school. From peer teaching to memory aids, these tips are perfect for engaging students during the end of the school year.  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Summer is drawing near and that means it's time to start getting everything packed up for summer. I know how important it is to keep your materials organized. However, it can be difficult to store teacher resources over the summer in a way that will make sense again next year. These five tips for getting your teacher resources organized will make getting ready for summer a breeze!  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Discover the top 7 strategies for K-5 teachers to save time on end-of-year benchmarks while ensuring student success. Learn how to plan ahead, collaborate, use data-driven instruction, and more! Show Notes and Links --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Looking for ways to make review fun for your students? Check out these 5 low-prep, engaging review activities that are sure to be a hit with students of all ages. SHOW NOTES AND LINKS --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

This Episode offers a solution for busy elementary school teachers struggling to find time for math and literacy review activities. The episode recommends using no-prep printables and hands-on centers as efficient and engaging ways to review critical skills. Farrah Henley Education offers a range of resources designed to save time and engage students, including Spiral Review, Review in a Snap Monthly, and Math and Literacy Center Bundles. The episode emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of review activities and resources to help students retain information and make meaningful progress in their education. SHOW NOTES Get Your Centers Organized in 3 Easy Steps --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support

Hey there, fellow productivity enthusiasts! Are you tired of wading through the chaos in your classroom every day? Do you wish you could snap your fingers and magically declutter your space? Well, you're in luck! In today's episode, I will share five key areas to declutter in your classroom, so you can make your day-to-day run smoother than ever before. Trust me, after listening to this episode, you can declutter like a pro and create a learning environment that fosters productivity and success. So, without further ado, let's get started! Join the Waitlist for The Free Training and Get Your Centers Organized HERE Show Notes and Links --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/farrah-henley/support