Shows
Joyful in Primary PodcastGear Up for the BEST SUMMER EVER: Part 3 - RenewalTeacher, 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...2024-05-2117 minJoyful in Primary PodcastWrite Your Teacher EulogyHey 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...2024-04-3008 minJoyful in Primary PodcastPlan Your Grand FinaleTeacher, 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...2024-04-2317 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Kid Who Makes You Want to Quit: Part 2Teacher, 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...2024-04-1708 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Kid Who Makes You Want to Quit: Part 1Teacher, 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...2024-04-1014 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Niceness of NoTeacher 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...2024-04-0205 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Teach in HarmonyHello 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...2024-03-2618 minJoyful in Primary PodcastTame the Classroom Management BLOB Part 2: Top LayersNow 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...2022-10-1328 minJoyful in Primary PodcastTame the Classroom Management BLOBIf 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...2022-10-0622 minJoyful in Primary PodcastMy Secret Weapon to Nurture Student ConnectionsTeacher, 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 t...2022-09-2922 minJoyful in Primary PodcastMy Secret Weapon to Supercharge Family ConnectionsHey 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:...2022-09-2219 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThree Gifts I Appreciate Because of the 2022 Flood 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.L...2022-09-1323 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 4: Joy-Guided DevelopmentTeacher, 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 post2022-05-1926 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 3: Joy-Centered DesignYou 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...2022-05-1217 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 2: Eliminate for JoyTeacher, 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...2022-05-0527 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 1: Joy-Rooted ReflectionTeacher, 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...2022-04-2831 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHack Your Student Hallway BehaviorTeacher, 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...2022-04-2119 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSummer-in-Sight Series: PerseveranceTeacher, 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.2022-04-1420 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSummer-in-Sight Series: PassionTeacher, 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...2022-04-0718 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSummer-in-Sight Series: PurposeFirst, 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...2022-03-3115 minJoyful in Primary PodcastEmbrace These Three Positive Teacher TraitsTeacher 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...2022-03-1713 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow I DUMPED My PRIZE BOXTeacher 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!2022-03-1026 minJoyful in Primary PodcastNeed a Classroom Mute Button?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 post2022-02-1715 minJoyful in Primary PodcastWhen You HATE Your CurriculumPrimary 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...2022-02-1019 minJoyful in Primary PodcastIntroducing... Joyful Teacher Academy!!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...2022-01-2721 minJoyful in Primary PodcastBurnout Buster Series Part 3: GrowthTeacher, 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...2022-01-2018 minJoyful in Primary PodcastBurnout Buster Series Part 2: Find Your WhyTeacher, 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...2022-01-1323 minJoyful in Primary PodcastBurnout Buster Series Part 1: Anchor ThoughtsHey 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...2022-01-0620 minJoyful in Primary PodcastClose the Tabs in Your Teacher BrowserTeacher, 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...2021-12-0917 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSpelling Word Practice They Beg ForIs 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...2021-12-0218 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Unlock Seamless Classroom TransitionsTeacher, 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...2021-11-2520 minJoyful in Primary PodcastBe a Tiny Human TamerThe 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...2021-11-1814 minJoyful in Primary PodcastMy Untold Joyful Teacher SecretsPeople 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...2021-11-1117 minJoyful in Primary PodcastRoutine Their Way to MasteryTeacher, 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:...2021-11-0413 minJoyful in Primary PodcastMy 2-Step Process to Tackle Teacher OverwhelmTeacher, 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...2021-10-2815 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHalloween Management, Learning, and FUN!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...2021-10-2115 minJoyful in Primary PodcastClassroom Management With a Music BoxTeacher, has your class turned chatty?It's that time of year when the newness of everything 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.2021-10-1413 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSimple But Mighty MATH RoutinesTeacher, 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...2021-10-0715 minJoyful in Primary PodcastTidy Classroom TipsTeacher, 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...2021-09-3014 minJoyful in Primary PodcastStudent Favorite Sight-Word Strategies Part 2: Tried and True StrategiesTeacher, 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...2021-09-1615 minJoyful in Primary PodcastStudent Loved Sight-Word Strategies Part 1: MotivationDoes 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...2021-09-0917 minJoyful in Primary PodcastDo Your Students Cheer for Sentence Writing?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...2021-08-2623 minJoyful in Primary PodcastNurturing Parent PartnershipsTeacher 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...2021-08-1918 minJoyful in Primary PodcastBuilding Parent PartnershipsIf 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!2021-08-1217 minJoyful in Primary Podcast5 Clever Ways to Simplify Your Classroom ManagementLet'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 post2021-08-0526 minJoyful in Primary PodcastMy Heart's Letter to Primary TeachersSweet teacher, today's episode is very special. I was able to contribute to Hal Bowman's Dear Teacher project, and I'm going to read you my letter to primary teachers.Not gonna lie, I get a little emotional. So please look over that, but just know it's because primary teachers mean so much to me.If you need a teacher pick-me-up to get ready for this coming school year, I hope this works.If you don't need it right now, come back to it when you're feeling a little overworked and a little underappreciated...2021-07-2911 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Go-Getters Guide to Teaching the Alphabet Part 3: EngagementNow that we've got our mindset right and are ready to assess all the knowledge our students are going to gain, let's talk about how to get that knowledge in their heads!Being the smartest teacher isn't enough for your students to achieve their learning goals. That's because if students aren't engaged with your lessons, they won't learn! I strongly believe that engagement is vital to student achievement.So today, we're going to get you ready to have your most engaged year yet with three strategies and plenty of freebies!Links mentioned in...2021-07-2222 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Go-Getters Guide to Teaching the Alphabet Part 2: AssessmentHey there, teacher! Welcome to Part 2 of our series on teaching the alphabet. If you missed last week's episode, I'd encourage you to start there to help establish the most effective mindset for this content.If you're ready for today's episode, we're going to dive into assessment. Believe it or not, assessment doesn't have to be a bad word! Hang in there with me when I say they can actually be fun. For that to be true, they have to be done the right way and for the right reasons.And I'm going to show...2021-07-1523 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Go-Getters Guide to Teaching the Alphabet Part 1: MindsetTeacher, do you ever get frustrated when teaching the alphabet? I have in the past when students just couldn't grasp the letters. This episode begins a three part series that will make teaching the alphabet easier and more fun. The alphabet is one of my favorite things to teach now, and I can help you enjoy it more and be more effective.Let me show you how a mindset shift can improve you alphabet instruction. I'll give you a hint: imagine trying to decipher hieroglyphics.Plus, I'll show you how to quickly fix one of...2021-07-0815 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe Ultimate Guide to SIMPLE Class RulesWell, hey there, teacher! I'm back after a two week break, refreshed, energized, and ready to talk school! Today, I am excited to bring you the ultimate guide to simple class rules. This is something I have used year after year I believe fully in it. And that is why I want to share it with you right now, when we are totally not even thinking about school.Well, actually I am thinking about school, I can't help it. :)If you're feeling like classroom rules are a lot of hype for very little pay off, r...2021-07-0127 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Create Your BEST SUMMER EverTeacher, we've made it! It's the summer after the craziest school year ever. You've earned rest, and I want you to have it! Here's the thing: let's make sure we're intentional about it so it doesn't just slip right through our fingers.Don't panic, because I'm not saying you can't still binge watch your favorite TV show. If we do a little planning ahead to make sure we're using our time effectively, you can rest, recharge, grow, and be ready for next school year. Plus, you won't find yourself at the end of the summer looking back...2021-06-1019 minJoyful in Primary PodcastCore Beliefs of the Most Effective Primary TeachersTeacher, I see you here volunteering your precious time to get more information, motivation, and encouragement for what you do. That is amazing.Today, let's talk about the beliefs that make up your teacher core. This isn't a lesson on beliefs you should try to create in yourself. What we're going to do today is recognize them so that you can use them to refuel your teacher spirit.Links in today's episode:Today's blog postFind Your Teacher CHEERLEADERS podcast episodeFind Your Teacher CHEERLEADERS blog postFinish With Joy series...2021-06-0321 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 4: Joy-Guided DevelopmentTeacher, we have reflected on what our pain points are, focused on things we can eliminate to maximize our time, and planned ahead for the next year. Now, it's time to use everything we've learned to fuel yourself for next year. Summer's coming folks, and it's a great time to invest in yourself!Professional development doesn't have to be boring, I promise! Our approach will make sure that it's tailored specifically to you and helps you become more joyful. Best of all, your plan can be done whenever you choose.Let's get you...2021-05-2721 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 3: Joy-Centered DesignTeacher, are you ready to translate your stress into solutions that will set you up for a joyful school year?We all have pain points, or stressors, in this career. Today, I'm going to walk you through how to examine those and design actionable steps to prepare you for your most joyful year yet. We can choose joy, but it isn't enough to show up to our classrooms one day and decide that that's the day we're going to be joyful.We're going to pick our top three pain points and then design solutions for...2021-05-2016 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 2: Eliminate for JoyTeacher friend, your time is PRECIOUS. You can make a big impact in your classroom, but if you're trying to do all the things, you won't be able to focus on any one area with the attention it deserves.If you feel like your to do list is getting the better of you, but you aren't sure how to take back control, I can help!Today, let me explain exactly why it's so important to focus on the most important tasks we have and how to eliminate what isn't absolutely essential. Spoiler alert: this is...2021-05-1325 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFinish With Joy Part 1: Joy-Rooted ReflectionCan you believe that we are actually in the end of the year season of this historical and absolutely crazy year? We did it, we're almost there almost to the finish line. That doesn't mean we are not still stressed and overwhelmed with all of the things that are on our plate. 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...2021-05-0628 minJoyful in Primary Podcast3 Ways to Make Sure Parents Love YouI really believe that relationships in the workplace have a big impact on our joy. And definitely, definitely having great relationships with the people who care for our students at home can aid us in being more effective teachers. So today, we're going to talk all about how to make parents love you.Having the support of parents is very important to me. I spend a lot of time working on it and reading about it. Having parents on our team gives us support for our students' educational goals, but it also is a way we can...2021-04-2925 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Harness the Magic of Word FamiliesSometimes, small things have big magic. Like my daughter's toy penguin. It's not fancy, and it doesn't even have pupils anymore! I'll tell you all about that too.But for some reason, that tired penguin is magic to my daughter. Just like that penguin, word families may seem insignificant, but they hold magic for our little learners who are trying so hard to become readers.In today's episode, I'll share four strategies that will help you harness the magic of word families. I'll also share a free Word Families poster set, and I'll tell you...2021-04-2221 minJoyful in Primary PodcastEnd-of-the-Year Teacher PrayerTeacher, do you feel like you are running out of steam as this year winds down? It's been one strange, difficult year.In the few weeks that are left in this school year, we still have a chance to make a positive impact on our little learners. We can still instill in them the joy that learning can bring. That can last their entire lives and motivate them to continue to build their lives into bright futures.So today, I'm going to share with you my end of the year prayer for us tired primary...2021-04-1513 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSure-Fire Ways to Improve Students’ Pride in their WorkTeacher, do you notice students rushing through their work and not really taking pride in what they're doing? It's a trend I've noticed in my classroom, and we need to nip that in the bud!The good news is, because primary students are so awesome, there are some simple ways we can manage this behavior. It is possible to help students take pride in their work and let their true abilities shine.It all comes down to the fact that primary students love their teachers! I've got three simple strategies you can start using today...2021-04-0823 minJoyful in Primary PodcastAdd Secret Sauce to your Phonological Awareness InstructionReady to up your phonological awareness game?Get ready to spread this secret sauce all over your teaching!More and more people are recognizing the importance of phonological awareness. It's vital to our little learners achieving their literacy goals.Maybe your experience with phonological awareness so far is like my initial experience with avocado. I thought it was a disgusting waste of 98 cents and couldn't believe humans actually consumed it!Then my doctor asked if I put a little salt on it. In the mountains, we like to put salt on...2021-04-0119 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Teach BLENDING to Struggling LearnersDo you have primary students who are struggling to blend words? Maybe most of the class has mastered this skill. Your activities and instruction have gotten many students over this big finish line!But what about the rest?Some students are behind in this skill, and it is vital to literacy. If your high quality instruction, which was effective with most of the class, didn't work for everyone, the answer isn't to continue the same approach.It's time for something different!Today, I'm going to share some advice to assess if...2021-03-2521 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSpring CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT Clean-UpTeacher, are you ready for SPRING? The birds are singing, the sun is warmer, and it's a perfect time to do a little cleanup. Today I'm going to show you how to get that fun, fresh feeling your house has after a good tidy up and bring it to your classroom management game.I've said it before, I'll say it now, and I'll say it again in the future: classroom management can make or break your joy as a teacher. I keep talking about it because it's so important. This is not an easy career to continue...2021-03-1829 minJoyful in Primary PodcastUndeniable Reasons to QUIT TeachingTeacher, have you debated whether teaching is still the right profession for you? Maybe you have another goal you're considering chasing and leaving teaching behind.Today, I'm going to share three signs you should definitely quit teaching. If any of these apply to you, leave your highlighter collection behind and just run for the door!But here's a warning. If you're looking for reasons to leave, you might accidentally find reasons to stay!Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's blog postJoyful Teacher AcademyPrimary Teacher Friends Facebook group2021-03-1118 minJoyful in Primary PodcastGetting Smart with SIGHT WORD InterventionThis school year is moving right along! Maybe you're starting to feel the pressure of crunch time as some students are achieving their learning goals while others may not be.If some of your students are struggling with their sight word lists, know that you're not alone! Many years at about this time, I take a hard look at where my students are and realize that some of them are not reaching their sight word goals.Sight words are included in the most basic form of learning, remembering, so our students should be able to...2021-03-0424 minJoyful in Primary Podcast5 BEST Tips for Having Hard Conversations with FamiliesOne of the areas of our careers as primary teachers that can be difficult is maintaining relationships with our students' parents and families.Especially when we have to deliver bad news.Knowing this is coming may give you anxiety. It may keep you up at night.It's never going to be easy, but I'm going to share five tips I've learned with experience that will help make it less painful. It's possible to give bad news and still maintain good relationships, and you can do it.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:2021-02-2521 minJoyful in Primary PodcastClever Ways to Utilize SOUND for Classroom ManagementClassroom management is a make or break aspect of being a teacher. I believe so strongly that to be a joyful, and effective, teacher we must have good classroom management.Directly related to classroom management is student engagement. An engaged classroom is an easy (easier) to manage classroom. So today, I'm going to share three easy sound hacks you can use to up your classroom management game by improving engagement, smoothing transitions, and rewarding focus.Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's Blog PostJoyful Teacher Academy updatesBog Post - Pacing...2021-02-1824 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Love HARD-TO-LOVE StudentsAsk any teacher if they love their students, and I'm willing to bet they say yes.Of course we do! It's why we do what we do.But what about those students that are a little more difficult? The ones who are talkative, disruptive, or never have their supplies? You know, the ones that are a little more hard-to-love.Every student deserves the best chance for an education that we can give them. These more difficult students need our love too. So how can we love them?Here are three tips...2021-02-1120 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHack the Holiday: NO-PREP Valentine's Day Literacy ActivitiesHere comes the holiday! Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and our kiddos can't wait. They love holidays, and we can hack the holiday to boost engagement in our primary classrooms. This doesn't mean fancy, detailed activities that take hours to prepare and leave our classroom management running for cover.Today, I'm going to give you three no-prep Valentine's Day literacy activities you can use with your students. We can make learning memorable and fun without all the stress!There's also a free download today! Head over to the blog at the link below...2021-02-0421 minJoyful in Primary PodcastFind Your Teacher CHEERLEADERSTeacher, are you feeling discouraged and unsupported? Do you secretly wonder why you're doing this when it's so hard? We chose a tough profession, and not everyone appreciates it.So that's why it's so important to find the people who do! We hear, from other people and from ourselves, that we aren't good enough way too often. Let's surround ourselves with people who can encourage us that we are making a difference.Here are three ways to find your teacher cheerleaders.Links in Today's Episode: Morning Message PostBad Habits...2021-01-2822 minJoyful in Primary PodcastPacing for Classroom Management & Student EngagementWhether you're conscious of it or not, you use pacing in every one of your lessons and transitions. It impacts engagement, classroom management, and your joy as a teacher.So how's your pacing? If your students are bored by a pace that is too slow or overwhelmed by a speed that can't keep up with, then their learning and the overall dynamic of your classroom will suffer.The good news is pacing can be adjusted! Here are three ways you can modify the pace of your classroom to get the just right challenge for your...2021-01-2124 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe #1 Thing Struggling Readers NeedDo you have students who are struggling to read? Maybe you've tried strategy after strategy and all the activities you can find, but those students are still not meeting their goals.I've tried finding the next great activity and latest greatest tools, but that's not the answer. Let me share the approach that worked for me after years of trial and error.It's not one specific activity or product. It's a mindset.Are you ready?Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's Blog PostLetter and Sound Fluency Post...2021-01-1420 minJoyful in Primary Podcast3 Teacher Bad Habits to BUST in 2021If you're ready to grow this year but already have plenty of goals, here are three bad habits to BUST!These three teacher bad habits will steal your joy. Trust me, I know, because I have had to break them. That's why I know you can too! Let me explain why they are so toxic. Then I'm going to give you strategies to bust them to pieces and get them out of your lives.Links mentioned in today's episode:Today's blog postPrimary Teacher Friends Facebook Group2021-01-0724 minJoyful in Primary PodcastMarried to a Teacher: The Struggles and Benefits w/ Mr. Teacher ToniTune in for this fun and surprising episode as Toni interviews Mr. Teacher Toni about his life as the husband of a Teacher. She throws some tough questions his way about the role he plays and the sacrifices he’s learned to appreciate. What you'll learn from listening is… although there is much at stake when your spouse is a Teacher… it is all worth it. Stick around to hear just how it feels to be married to a dedicated teacher PLUS learn how Leon was once caught in public in an Olaf costume as part of...2020-12-3122 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Craft an EPIC Morning Meeting: Part 2 w/ Susan MatthewsHey there, teacher friend!Are you ready for Part 2 of making your morning meetings EPIC? If you missed Part 1, jump over there and catch it from the top. I'll be here. :)Today we're going to talk about the last two of five components to make your morning meeting engaging and memorable. With these two tips related to incorporating content and ensuring your students are successful, morning meetings won't just be time takers! Plus we're sharing bonus tips!Links in today's episode: Blog Post - Morning MeetingPrimary Teacher Friends Facebook...2020-12-2419 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to Craft an EPIC Morning Meeting: Part 1 w/ Susan MatthewsCould your morning classroom routine use a little pizzazz? Join me as I interview Susan Matthews, who is an absolute master at morning meetings. If you haven't tried morning meetings yet, give us a chance to explain why they're so important and beneficial. Besides being engaging, if you craft them thoughtfully, they give students a chance to be successful that will boost their confidence for the rest of the day.We're also sharing 5 components you need to have an epic morning meeting. In Part 1 today, we'll cover the first three components, so be sure to...2020-12-1725 minJoyful in Primary PodcastJanuary REFRESH: 3 Goals to Get Your Students Back in GearI don't know about you, but I'm ready for Christmas break! While I'm looking forward to some rest, TV, and time with my family, I'm also planning ahead for January.This is a perfect time to reflect back on the first half of the school year and push the reset button for the start of the second half. These three goals will get you set for a successful beginning in January.Links mentioned in today's episode:Blog post: https://teachertoni.com/reset/Sticker Card Starter Kit: Sticker Card Starter Kit: Positive Behavior Management...2020-12-1017 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe ONE WORD your students CRAVEDid you know there's one word all your students want to hear? It's connected to their identity. It's a powerful way to make them feel connected and valued. Plus, it barely takes extra time and very little effort to make sure you say this word once you know what it is.Ready to find out? Let me show you what it is and how to implement it!Links mentioned in today's episode: Today's blog post: The One Word Your Students Crave: Their Name! - Teacher ToniSight Word Engagement Guide: 3 Sight-Word Strategies (scientifically-proven) to...2020-12-0321 minJoyful in Primary PodcastHow to (Actually) Teach During the HolidaysNeed some motivation to keep teaching content during the holidays? Today, Toni shares why these three weeks are so important.She also gives three tips to make sure you're continuing vital learning without being accused of being a grinch. Our primary kiddos don't need a bunch of holiday movies to enjoy the holiday spirit. With a little planning, our lessons can be both content rich and festive.Links in today's episode:Holidays podcast episode: https://teachertoni.com/holidays/Kindergarten Word Works: Kindergarten Word Works: Christmas Edition (Printable & Interactive PDF) (teacherspayteachers.com)First...2020-11-2618 minJoyful in Primary PodcastWhy, How & Who to GIVE THANKSTeacher, do you feel like no one sees or cares about the hard work you're putting in? Let me assure you that I do.Our world needs a lot more gratitude going around. Today I'm going to explain why gratitude is healthy and how we can show it to others and ourselves. You might be the person someone needs to hear from today, and your encouragement could be the very thing they need to keep going.I'm going to share a simple way you can share your gratitude. It'll require you to search your feelings...2020-11-1921 minJoyful in Primary PodcastWhat PIRATES have to do with Student Engagement w/ Dave BurgessToday's episode brings you an interview packed with energy and ideas from best-selling author of Teach Like A PIRATE, Dave Burgess. Come along as Toni talks with Dave about bringing the PIRATE spirit to the classroom. They explore student engagement and how using hooks is an investment of time rather than a waste of time. That's because if you make content an experience it becomes memorable. Come embrace Dave's enthusiasm and carry it into your teaching!Links mentioned in today's episode:Follow Dave on Twitter @BurgessDaveDave's blog: www.daveburgess.comPrimary Teacher Friends Facebook group: h...2020-11-1222 minJoyful in Primary PodcastDear Tired Teacher,Sweet Teacher, I know your heart and spirit are exhausted and ready to give in. I know that you have too much to do and too little time to do it. I know that our current situation has added a deeper, more violent layer of stress to an already overwhelming career. I also know that all of your hard work and sacrifices go highly unnoticed and unappreciated. More than any of that, I also know that the World can't afford to LOSE YOU as a Teacher. You have to keep going. If you feel like you j...2020-11-0517 minJoyful in Primary PodcastThe TRUTH about Self-Care that EVERY Teacher Needs to Hear w/ Barbara GruenerFeeling worn down, discouraged, or burned out? Join Toni and special guest, Barbara Gruener, to learn what self-care REALLY is (it's doesn't only mean a spa) and why you should absolutely be practicing it.We'll talk about self-talk, saying no, and how to avoid feeling guilty for giving your best self to the world.Links mentioned in today's episode: Blog post with Self-Care Boosters: https://teachertoni.com/selfcare/SEL blog post: https://teachertoni.com/sel/Barbara Gruener's blog: http://corneroncharacter.com/Primary Teacher Friends Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/primaryteacherfriends2020-10-2926 minJoyful in Primary PodcastSentence Writing Made EASY: A simple, power-house strategy that only takes 10 minutesIf you're a Primary Teacher, you know that teaching a student how to write a sentence correctly isn't an easy task, especially considering we normally have 20+ of the little critters to split our teaching between. If you've felt the frustration of walking around the room, struggling to give each child the instruction they need to form a sentence correctly (with capitalization, spacing, punctuation, etc.), you need a new way. Today, Toni will share with you the EASIEST way EVER to help your students get over this writing hurdle. With this quick and simple routine, you'll see a tr...2020-10-2216 minJoyful in Primary PodcastJOY-KILLING Classroom Management Mistakes & How to Avoid ThemTeacher, is there something missing in your classroom? Maybe some JOY?Many teachers face the joy stealer of classroom management. Behavior can make a day great or ruin it, and managing that is enough to drain the enthusiasm right out of your heart.Today, Toni is going to share three common classroom management mistakes and how to fix them. She knows this works, because she's learned these strategies through experience.Let's put the joy back in your well-managed classroom!Links from today's episode: Today's blog p...2020-10-1517 minJoyful in Primary Podcast3 Empowering Reasons to LOVE Virtual TeachingIs virtual teaching taking the excitement (at least the good kind) out of your year? It doesn't have to!Today, Toni shares three reasons you can love virtual teaching. So if you feel like your year is kind of miserable, you're in exactly the right place.Is virtual teaching hard? Yes.Is it discouraging sometimes? Yes!Is it rewarding? Yes!!!Here's how you can keep your joy through this school year and share the best learning experience possible with your students.Links from today's episode:2020-10-0815 min