Happy Teaching

In this episode, Alex shares two simple shifts that can dramatically improve how students respond to directions in your classroom. If you’ve ever given instructions and looked around to see students doing something completely different, or felt like you’re constantly saying “Don’t do that” or “Stop running” — this episode is for you. ✨ You’ll learn: Why we often give too many directions at once without realizing it How breaking instructions into 2–3 simple steps helps students succeed A powerful classroom strategy: turning directions into songs or chants How rephrasing directions into positive language improves student responses 💡 This episode is a great reminder that small shifts in language and structure can reduce chaos during transitions and make classroom routines run much more smoothly. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Related blog post 👉🏽 Simple Strategy for Improving Classroom Management 📚 Print and Play Club Inside the Print and Play Club, members have access to classroom management training videos and professional development to help with common challenges like transitions, directions, and student behavior. Not a member yet? Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this fun and relatable episode, Alex shares seven classic signs you might be a Kindergarten (or early childhood) teacher. From hoarding office supplies to decoding student writing that looks like hieroglyphics, it’s a lighthearted look at the little things only Pre-K, TK, and Kindergarten teachers truly understand. ✨ You’ll Hear: The irresistible pull of a good office supply sale Why early childhood teachers become masters of repurposing everything The mysterious teacher bag that travels between home and school The superpower of decoding early phonetic spelling Why Kindergarten teachers turn everything into a song or chant 💡 This episode is a reminder that the quirky little habits of early childhood teachers are actually part of what makes this work so special. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Check out the related post on the blog 👉🏽 7 (funny) Signs You Are a Kindergarten Teacher 📚 If those “teacher bags” full of work feel a little too familiar, the Print and Play Club can help lighten the load with ready-to-use centers, routines, and classroom resources created specifically for Pre-K, TK, and Kindergarten teachers. Not a member yet? Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, Alex shares three simple, practical strategies to help you calm the chaos of morning arrival. If your day starts with ringing phones, attendance stress, parents needing you, kids arriving at different times, and you already feel overwhelmed ten minutes in — this episode is for you. Because just like adults, kids feel it when a morning starts off rocky. And when we can create a predictable, calm beginning to the day, everything else tends to run more smoothly. ✨ You’ll Hear: Why consistency in your arrival routine builds independence How keeping the routine the same every day reduces reliance on you Why open-ended morning activities work better than worksheets The power of daily check-in tasks like sign-in boards or The Cutting Jar 💡 This episode is a reminder that starting the day strong sets the tone and small shifts in your morning routine can make a big difference in your entire day. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Related Blog Post 👉🏽 3 Teacher Tips for Morning Arrival Routines The Cutting Jar ✂️ A simple, powerful fine motor routine that builds scissor skills consistently (and kids love it). It’s an easy, low-prep way to strengthen scissor skills daily without endless cutting worksheets. Grab it here 👉🏽 https://thekindergartenconnection.com/simple-scissor-skills-practice-for-the-classroom/ ⭐ Print and Play Club Members: Find the Cutting Jar PLUS ready-to-use math bins, literacy centers, and open-ended activities that make mornings easier to manage, all included inside your membership — just log in and download them from your resource library! Not a member yet? Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, Alex dives into one of the most common (and frustrating) classroom challenges: students not keeping their hands to themselves. Whether it’s pestering, poking, constant touching, or more serious hitting and shoving, this episode walks you through how to move beyond just saying “Keep your hands to yourself” and actually teach students what that means. ✨ You’ll hear: • The difference between “pesty” behavior and truly hurtful behavior • Why teaching both sides of the situation matters • How to teach students to use a firm, big voice to say "STOP" • What students should do when a classmate tells them to stop • How to create logical, related consequences that actually make sense • Why follow-through is essential (a boundary without follow-through is just a suggestion) • How investing time in social-emotional lessons saves time in the long run 💡 This episode is a powerful reminder that social-emotional skills are the work of early childhood, and the time you spend teaching them intentionally will pay off. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Check out this article on the blog 👉🏼 Must-Try Tip for Teaching Personal Space in Pre-K & Kindergarten Related podcast episode 👉🏼 Consequences That Actually Work in Pre-K & Kindergarten Behavior Busters Guide (Free PDF) – A practical guide for handling common classroom behaviors with confidence 🌟 Print and Play Club Members can access a whole vault of classroom management trainings and support on a wide range of behavior topics. Not a member yet? Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, Alex shares a simple strategy that delivers big results: how to re-engage students with materials they’re ignoring, without buying anything new. If you’ve ever set up a center you were excited about, only to watch students completely pass it by, this episode is for you. Sometimes the fix isn’t replacing the activity — it’s rethinking how it’s presented. ✨ You’ll Hear: • Why rotation is one of the easiest ways to make materials feel “new” again • How presentation impacts whether students even notice a center • Why clear tubs, trays, and shelf placement matter more than you think • How changing toy pairings (animals + castle, dinosaurs + blocks) can instantly boost engagement • Simple ways to refresh paper-based centers with new writing tools 💡 This episode is a reminder that small shifts like moving a shelf, swapping a bin, or adding colored pencils can create a big return on your time and energy. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Check out the related blog post 👉 Simple Tip to Re-Engage Students with Classroom Materials Looking for ready-to-use centers that are easy to rotate and refresh? Inside the Print and Play Club, you’ll find math centers, literacy activities, and low-prep options that make rotation simple. Click here to join the club! 📞 Have a center refresh idea that worked for you? Send a DM or tag @thekindergartenconnection — we love sharing teacher wins! The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, Alex shares how to make circle time more engaging, effective, and developmentally appropriate — without adding more to your plate. If you’ve ever felt like your students just can’t sit still or that you’re constantly relying on brain breaks to keep things moving, this one’s for you. ✨ You’ll Hear: • Why shorter circle times actually lead to better focus and fewer behaviors • How to use songs and chants to guide transitions and boost participation • Simple ways to add movement to read-alouds and group activities • Why offering flexible sitting choices can reduce squirming and support focus 💡 You’ll also learn why removing some elements of circle time might be the key to helping everything run more smoothly. 🔗 Mentioned in this Episode: Check out this article on the blog 👉 Offering Seating Options Beyond “Criss Cross Applesauce” Related podcast episode 👉 Let’s Talk About “No More Criss Cross Applesauce” Grab this FREE Shamrock Subitizing Pocket Chart Game to try in your classroom! Get Circle Time Chants and Activities HERE! Print and Play Club Members: 🎶 Head to your PLAYlist for ready-to-use circle time songs and monthly themed chants 🎉 Find tons of engaging pocket chart chants and activities to get kids moving, participating, and learning in fun, rhythmic ways 🙌 Download the editable Circle Time Seating Options Poster — a customizable visual support to teach sitting choices with clarity 📍 Not a member yet? Click here to join the club! 📣 Let us know what YOU love for music and movement during circle time! Tag @thekindergartenconnection on Instagram with your favorite chant, transition, or brain break — you might inspire another teacher, too! The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Valentine’s Day in the early childhood classroom can feel like a whirlwind, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming or over the top. In this short and sweet episode, we’re talking about what really matters when it comes to celebrating Valentine’s Day in Pre-K and Kindergarten. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: A gentle reminder that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfect Why simplicity and consistency are key in classroom celebrations How to keep things meaningful and fun without adding stress What your students will actually remember about this day (hint: it’s not the crafts) This quick listen will leave you feeling grounded and ready to enjoy the holiday with your little learners without the pressure. ⭐ ⭐ Join the Print and Play Club to access all of our Valentine's Day activities included in the membership. You can also check out our Valentine's Day resources on the blog including book lists, activities, and much more. 💝 The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, we’re tackling a challenge every early childhood teacher faces: what to do when a student refuses to work. Whether it’s ignoring directions, sitting with arms crossed, or simply saying “no,” these moments can be tricky and emotionally draining. But there’s a way through that builds connection and cooperation. You’ll learn: Why refusal might be happening (hint: it’s not always defiance!) What to say and do in the moment to shift power struggles A must-try phrase that opens the door to student choice and cooperation How to keep your boundaries while staying calm and supportive 💡 This episode is packed with strategies you can use right away, especially if you've ever felt stuck or unsure of how to respond. 🧠 Want to go deeper? The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Small groups can feel like one of the hardest parts of the day to manage, but they don’t have to be! In this episode, Alex breaks down how to keep small group time simple, doable, and impactful in a Pre-K or Kindergarten classroom. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to make your groups more consistent, this episode offers realistic tips and encouragement to help you feel more confident. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why small group time can feel overwhelming and how to ease that pressure Simple ways to get started with small groups (even if you only have 10 minutes!) Tips for managing the rest of the class while you're working with a group What to do when things don’t go as planned Encouragement to start small and build as you go 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 🖨️ Print and Play Club members don’t forget to grab: Ready-to-go small group activities for literacy and math Center rotation tools and management visuals Planning templates to keep your groups organized 💌 Want more weekly support? Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, we’re diving into student-led conferences. Yes, even in Pre-K and Kindergarten! Alex walks you through how these conferences can look in early childhood settings, and how to keep the process simple, meaningful, and manageable. If the idea of student-led conferences has ever felt intimidating or “too much” for young learners, this episode will change your mind. ✨ What You’ll Hear: What a student-led conference actually looks like in a Pre-K or Kindergarten classroom Why it doesn’t have to be complicated (and how to keep it age-appropriate) The power of students sharing their learning in their own words How this approach strengthens home-school connections and builds student confidence Encouragement to start small and adjust based on what works for you 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Related Blog Post: Student Led Conferences in Kindergarten Join the Print and Play Club filled with classroom management, resources, and support. 💌 Grab your free weekly teaching pep talk with our Teacher Tuesday emails The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Feeling a little worn down halfway through the school year? You’re not alone. In this encouraging mid-year check-in, Alex shares a heartfelt pep talk to remind you of the incredible impact you’re making every single day. Whether you're in a winter slump or just needing a little boost, this quick episode is here to lift you up and help you reset with purpose and perspective. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why mid-year burnout is real and totally normal How to give yourself permission to slow down and reflect Encouragement to celebrate how far you've come, not just what’s ahead A reminder that you are the constant in your students’ days and that matters more than you know A few gentle prompts to help you reconnect with your “why” 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: ❤️ Print and Play Club: Looking for ways to bring more ease into your teaching this semester? PPC members don’t forget to explore the monthly planning guides, low-prep centers, and classroom management tools ready for you inside the club. Join Here. ✉️ Weekly Pep Talks: Get more encouragement in your inbox every Tuesday with our Teacher Tuesday emails. Not on the list yet? Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Returning from winter break can feel like hitting reset on your classroom routines. In this episode, Alex shares five essential routines that are worth reviewing to help your students settle back into the rhythm of learning. Whether you’re in Pre-K, TK, or Kindergarten, these simple but powerful routines will support smoother transitions, stronger classroom management, and a calmer, more connected start to the new year. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why winter break often brings a dip in routines and how to bounce back with confidence 5 specific routines to revisit, including: Morning arrival expectations Whole-group carpet time Voice level reminders Clean-up transitions Lining up and hallway behavior How to review routines in a fun, non-punitive way Encouragement that you're not starting over—just reinforcing what students already know 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 📝 Related Blog Post: 5 Classroom Routines to Review After Winter Break 🖨️ Print and Play Club: Members, don’t forget to grab your routine visual tools, transition tips, and behavior supports inside the club to make re-teaching routines simple and stress-free! ❤️ Not a member yet? Request your invite and get access to resources designed to support real teachers and real classrooms all year long. The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

December can feel like a whirlwind in Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms. Between excitement, routines going off track, and a jam-packed calendar, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this short but powerful episode, Alex shares her number one tip for staying grounded, connected, and calm during the busiest month of the year. It’s all about working with your students (not against the chaos) and finding simple ways to preserve your energy while still making magical memories. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why the holiday season can cause a shift in classroom behavior and why that’s normal The biggest mistake teachers make in December (hint: trying to do more!) Alex’s go-to mindset shift that makes each day more joyful and less stressful A peek into how this tip plays out in real classrooms How to stay consistent, connected, and calm when excitement is high 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 💡 Blog Post: #1 Tip for Teaching in December If you're a member of the Print and Play Club, be sure to grab your December resources and planning tools to help you stay on track and reduce stress all month long! ❤️ Not a member yet? Request an invitation and get instant access to centers, routines, and ready-to-use resources that match the rhythm of your classroom. The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this short and sweet pep talk, Alex is giving YOU the permission slip you didn’t know you needed: to slow down, take a breath, and let go of the constant pressure to “get it all done.” Whether you're heading into a break or just wrapping up a chaotic week, this episode is your friendly reminder that your worth as a teacher isn’t measured by how much you do. It’s measured by the joy, care, and connection you bring to your students. ❤️ Links & Resources Mentioned: Need tools to make classroom life easier? Inside the Print and Play Club, you'll find your go to resources for centers, Circle Time, classroom management, and so much more. ⭐ Join the Print and Play Club Here The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Transitions can be tricky especially in early childhood classrooms where students are moving from high-energy play to more focused learning activities. If you've ever felt like your classroom goes from calm to chaos (and back again!) in the blink of an eye, you're not alone. In this episode, we're talking all about how to help your students reset after transitions so you can move into your next activity with calm, confidence, and connection. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why transitions feel so hard for young learners and why that’s okay The power of “transition bridges” like songs, visuals, and intentional cues Simple tips to help kids go from silly to settled Why buffer time and realistic expectations can make all the difference ✨ Key Takeaway: You don’t need perfect transitions you just need predictable ones. With the right supports in place, your students can shift gears without the stress (and so can you!). 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Blog Post: How to Calm Down Students After Classroom Transitions Need tools to support smooth transitions? Inside the Print and Play Club, you'll find classroom chants, visual supports, calming songs, and more to make every part of your day flow with ease. ⭐ Join the Print and Play Club >> https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

In this episode, we’re talking all about one of the most common challenges in early childhood: sharing and turn-taking. If your students are constantly grabbing, pouting, or saying “But I had it first!”, you’re not alone. And they’re not being “bad”, they’re still learning. We’ll walk through developmentally appropriate ways to actually teach this skill, without relying on vague phrases like “Just take turns!” or “Use your words.” Whether you’re looking for social stories, problem-solving visuals, or just a little encouragement, this episode is for you! ✨ You'll learn: Why sharing is hard for young children (and what they need instead) The importance of teaching turn-taking before problems arise How to use modeling, puppets, visuals, and specific language to guide students through social situations Encouragement for the slow-and-steady process of building social skills 🔗 Mentioned in this episode 📖 Read the related blog post: How to Teach Sharing in Pre-K & Kindergarten 🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club: Bite-sized on demand classroom management videos LIVE Monthly Member Management Meetups Social Emotional Resources to support important topics 📍Join the Club: https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Do your students struggle to sit still during circle time? You’re not alone and you’re not doing anything wrong. In today’s episode, we’re talking about why “criss cross applesauce” doesn’t work for every child and what to do instead. From seating choices to circle time tips that actually increase engagement, we’ll explore small changes that make a big impact on your students’ attention, comfort, and participation. ✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why “criss cross applesauce” isn’t developmentally appropriate for all students How to offer alternative seating options that help kids focus without adding chaos Circle time strategies that boost listening and engagement What to try when kids can’t sit still without punishment or power struggles 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 💡 Alternative Seating Blog Post: Offering Seating Options Beyond “Criss Cross Applesauce” 🧠 Circle Time Tips: How to Increase Listening and Engagement at Circle Time 🙌 What to Do When Kids Can’t Sit Still: Tips and Strategies for Students Who Can’t Sit Still ✨ Inside the Print and Play Club: Members get access to the Criss Cross webinar, plus classroom visuals, behavior tools, and flexible seating resources. Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Episode 24: Off-Topic Stories at the Worst Times? Try This You're in the middle of a mini-lesson, and a little hand shoots up... not with an answer, but with a totally unrelated story about their dog or grandma’s birthday party. Sound familiar? In this short and actionable episode, Alex shares exactly how to manage off-topic stories without shutting kids down, and how to gently guide your class back on track while still honoring their voices. ✨ You’ll learn: Why off-topic storytelling is developmentally normal (and not “bad behavior”) What to say when a student interrupts with a story mid-lesson A classroom-tested strategy for reducing interruptions with kindness How to validate student voices without derailing your instruction This is a go-to strategy for whole-group calm and connection and it starts with just one simple shift. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode 📖 Read the full blog post: How to Keep Kids on Task During Whole Group Instruction 🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club: ✅ Visual routines for whole-group behavior expectations ✅ Pocket Chart Songs and Games perfect for mini-lessons ✅ Management strategies for transitions and attention-getters 📍Join the Club: https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Episode 23: Consequences That Actually Work in Pre-K & Kindergarten If you’ve ever felt stuck between ignoring a behavior or dishing out a consequence that doesn’t feel quite right- you’re not alone. In this episode, Alex breaks down how to use consequences effectively in early childhood classrooms; so they actually teach, not just punish. You’ll hear about natural consequences, respectful tone, and real classroom examples you can use to guide your students with compassion and clarity. ✨ You’ll learn: Why consequences aren’t the same as punishments The difference between natural and logical consequences How to stay calm and consistent without being “mean” What to say when students push back or test boundaries Whether you’re new to early childhood or just need a reset, this episode will give you confidence to use consequences that build connection, not conflict. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode 📖 Read the full blog post: The Importance of Classroom Consequences in Pre-K & Kindergarten 🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club: ✅ Visuals for routines, choices, and problem-solving ✅ Social-emotional mini-lessons for teaching expectations ✅ Quick bite-sized videos to help you handle a variety of classroom management struggles 📍Join the Club: https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast 📲 For more behavior support tips, come follow along on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection 💛 If this episode helped you reframe consequences in your classroom, share it with a teacher friend who could use the support too! The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Episode 22: What to Do When Kids Pout You ask a student to clean up or join the group… and they cross their arms, drop their head, and freeze. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a battle of wills with a pouting student, you’re not alone. In this episode, Alex shares what’s really going on when students pout and how to respond with calm, connection, and confidence (instead of power struggles). ✨ You’ll hear: Why pouting is often a shutdown response, not “defiance” How to shift your mindset when a student refuses to participate Practical language you can use in the moment Encouragement to stay regulated, even when it’s hard You’ll walk away with realistic, compassionate tips to handle pouting in ways that build trust and help your classroom stay on track. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode 📖 Read the full blog post: Must-Try Teacher Tips for When Kids Pout 🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club: ✅ Social-emotional visuals and calm corner tools ✅ Problem-solving prompts and student response visuals ✅ Quick On-Demand Classroom Management videos 📍Join the Club: https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com