Teacher Approved: Elementary Teacher Tips & Strategies

We’ve all had those days when dismissal comes and goes, but somehow we’re still at school hours later. In this episode, we break down why teaching work never really “ends” on its own, and how creating a clear system helps you leave work at school. We walk through how to close out the day with intention, reset your brain for focused work, decide what truly needs to get done, and set a hard stop you’ll actually keep, all so you can head home knowing tomorrow is handled and today is done.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/leave-school-on-time-teacher-tipsResources:A Gentle RainCandle wick trimmerJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 243. How to Protect Your Planning Time (So You Can Stop Working For Free)Episode 242. 6 Small Tweaks that Can Save Your February Teacher EnergyEpisode 94. A Great Day Before School Even Starts: Your Perfect Teacher Morning Routine at SchoolEpisode 169. Our Best Teacher Tips for Finding Pockets of Prep Time to Get Ahead for JanuaryMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed,...

In this episode, we break down why teacher planning time so often gets wasted and what actually helps protect it. We share a simple two-pillar framework focused on guarding your prep from interruptions and directing it with intention, so you know exactly what to work on when you sit down. From setting boundaries to choosing tasks that make the rest of your week smoother, this conversation is all about making planning time more productive and sustainable.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-planning-time-strategies/Resources:Join the Teacher Approved Club!February Teacher Survival KitConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 169. Our Best Teacher Tips for Finding Pockets of Prep Time to Get Ahead for JanuaryEpisode 91. Start Your Day Strong: Top Tips for Maximizing Your Morning WorkEpisode 181. How to Get Ahead on Your Teacher Tasks for a Stress-Free Spring BreakMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.

January is tough, but February can be a surprisingly powerful reset if you know how to use it. In this episode, we share why this month often feels draining, how hidden energy leaks show up across your day, and how a simple February energy audit can help you make small, strategic shifts that protect your time and capacity. Our goal is to help you stop drifting through February and start using it to refill your tank before the rest of the year ramps up.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/february-teacher-energy-tips/Resources:February Teacher Survival KitJoin the Teacher Approved Club!BlueAir humidifierHinge toppersConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 48. How to Make Classroom Transitions Simple with Clear Beginnings and EndingsEpisode 49. Rapid Classroom Transitions: How to Save 45 Hours a YearEpisode 50. 3 Guidelines to Make Classroom Transitions Work Smarter Not HarderEpisode 161, How to Get Students Actively Engaged: 5 Teacher Approved Techniques...

Inspiration is fun, but momentum is what really matters! In this episode, we share how to use Teacher Winter Talks to spark change you can carry back into your classroom. We walk through what to do before, during, and after the summit so great ideas don’t end up in the "forgotten idea graveyard". If you want to reconnect with what’s working, focus on strategies that fit your classroom, and turn inspiration into action, this episode is your game plan.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-pd-tips/Resources:Grab your FREE ticket to Teacher Winter Talks.Good StoreSun Basin Wooden Wick Candle Monochrome Coloring BookJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 71, The Easy Way Teachers Can Learn This Summer: 10 PD Books We LoveEpisode 236, Your Tired Teacher Guide to January Prep From Your CouchEpisode 240, 7 Quick...

January hits differently, and we want this episode to feel like a deep exhale as you head back into the classroom. We’re sharing a sneak peek of Teacher Winter Talks with seven incredible educators and quick, practical ideas to help you reset after winter break. You’ll hear simple shifts to reconnect with students, strengthen thinking across subjects, and make January feel more manageable. This is just a taste of what’s waiting inside Teacher Winter Talks, so sign up and grab your free ticket today!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/january-teacher-tips/🔗 Resources:Teacher Winter TalksRetractable Gel PensK18 Dry ShampooPodcast: One Tired TeacherJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.🎧 Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 147, Teacher Approved Tips: How to Plan Ahead for Future Problems!Episode 169, Our Best Teacher Tips For Finding Pockets of Prep Time to Get Ahead for January

This can’t-miss classic is the cozy January reset teachers love coming back to. We walk you through four simple, low-stress ways to refresh your routines, tighten up procedures, make mornings work better, plan ahead for test prep, and still leave room for the fun that makes teaching joyful. It’s gentle, practical, and perfect for easing back into the classroom feeling confident and grounded. And while you’re giving yourself that January jumpstart, be sure to sign up for Teacher Winter Talks - our free summit designed to help you make the second half of the school year your strongest yet!Resources:Teacher Winter Talks SummitSpiral Review: Morning WorkOh Happy Dani Reflection WorkbookLabel makerJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 3, Strengthening the BrainEpisode 6, Morning Meeting: An Essential RoutineEpisode 18, Procedures for Success!Episode 20, Mastering Morning RoutinesEpisode 27, Your One Word Theme for The YearEpisode 28, How to Launch Morning MeetingEpisode 32, 5 Classroom Management Questions to Help Banish Bad Class HabitsEpisode 35, 5 Ways to Increase Student Engagement – Our Secret Weapon for TeachersMentioned in this episode:Get dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for

We’re bringing back a can’t-miss Teacher Approved classic episode to help you ease back into school with intention and clarity. In this replay of our January Reset Reflection, we guide you through eight thoughtful questions designed to help you reflect on what’s working, identify what needs a refresh, and keep that fresh-start energy alive long after winter break ends! This episode is meant to be listened to slowly and casually (hot cocoa encouraged!) so the ideas can simmer until you’re ready to step back into your classroom feeling grounded, focused, and energized for the second half of the year.Resources:Classroom Procedures and Routines Editable SlidesParent Teacher Conference CourseEditable Classroom Seating ChartSpiral Review Morning WorkSpiral Review Homework – 2nd GradeRechargeable ScrewdriverGlass PotJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 3, Strengthening the BrainEpisode 18, Procedures for Success!Episode 45, January Classroom Jump StartEpisode 76, Teacher Approved Tips: Make Time for Spiral Review and Use SOPs to Save Time in the ClassroomMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit...

Looking for a smoother January? In this episode, we share our three favorite strategies for a classroom reset before winter break so you can return feeling calm, prepared, and confident. We walk you through simple ways to spark excitement for the new year, set up future you for success, and plan a gentle, soft start that makes the transition back feel easier for you and your students.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/classroom-reset-before-winter-break/Resources:December Teacher Survival KitAdventures with Friends@Engineerdoeseducation on InstagramJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 27, Your One Word Theme for the YearEpisode 40, 2 Easy Things All Teachers Should Do Before Winter BreakEpisode 209, The Most Important Back-to-School Prep No One Talks AboutEpisode 217, 3 Things to Do Before Students Arrive and After They Leave on the First DayEpisode 233, The Smooth December Framework Every Teacher Needs (And It Starts in November)Mentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.

Ready to make January feel like a gentle start instead of a cold plunge? In this episode, we’re sharing our January launch plan, designed so you can get prepped for the new term from the comfort of your couch. Whether you’re catching up on Hallmark movies or just sneaking in a bit of planning before the break, these tips will help you go back with confidence and calm!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/january-prep-tips-for-tired-teachers/🔗 Resources:December Teacher Survival KitClassroom Procedures and Routines Bundle (Tell, Try, Tally, Talk)Digital Seating Arrangement ToolFree Resource: Goal Setting Pages Spin to Survive bookJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.❤️ Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 39, Our Top 20 Christmas Books For Your ClassroomEpisode 146, Never Pick Up Another Stray Crayon: Why We Love Guided DiscoveryEpisode 172, The 2nd First Day of School: How to Take Advantage of The Week After Winter BreakEpisode 201, 20 Easy Back-to-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do From The CouchEpisode 233, The Smooth December Framework Every Teacher Needs (And It Starts in November)Mentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed

December has officially arrived, and we’re sharing the December classroom behavior strategies that help keep things calm when student energy is sky-high. In this episode, we walk through the routines and mindset shifts that make the biggest impact, from daily expectation check-ins and protecting your mornings to using our “swiss cheese strategy” when the schedule is full of holes. We also highlight how simple festive breaks can add just the right amount of seasonal fun without sacrificing structure, and when a short-term reward system (like the reindeer system that saved one of Heidi’s wildest Decembers) can give your class the boost they need. With the right balance of consistency and intentional fun, you really can stay grounded and enjoy the magic of the season!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/december-classroom-behavior-strategies/Resources:December Teacher Survival KitFestive Break PackReindeer Reward System [December Behavior Help Set]Podcast Playlist: Teaching in DecemberSolar fairy lightsJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 105, Festive Fun in December: Engaging Holiday Activities to Do With Your ClassEpisode 106, The December Survival Kit: 3 Essential Tips to Help Teachers ThriveEpisode 233, The Smooth December Framework Every Teacher Needs (And It Starts in November)Episode 234, How to Plan Teaching in December So January Feels EasyMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days...

December in the classroom brings joy and chaos in equal measure, and in this episode we share a smarter way to navigate it with your sanity intact. We walk you through choosing your “stop new content” date, mapping out your December must-do’s, and using unpredictable pockets of time for meaningful review and reflection so December lesson planning becomes less about surviving and more about creating steady structure!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/december-lesson-planning-for-teachers/Resources:December Teacher Survival KitPodcast Playlist: Teaching in DecemberHerbivore Coconut Milk Bath SoakNexcare Maxhold Waterproof bandagesJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 105, Festive Fun in December: Engaging Holiday Activities to Do With Your ClassEpisode 106, The December Survival Kit: 3 Essential Tips to Help Teachers ThriveEpisode 230, How To Keep Students Engaged Through Every Season Of The School YearEpisode 233, The Smooth December Framework Every Teacher Needs (And It Starts in November)Mentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.

Feeling stuck in that mid-November limbo? This episode kicks off our Smooth December Series so that you can head into January feeling calm and confident. We break down four core focus areas (pockets of prep, classroom reset, student engagement hook, and a teacher comfort plan) along with simple ways to find small windows of time, organize materials with easy systems, and plan meaningful activities that help students return refreshed. You’ll learn how small steps, from prepping welcome slides to stocking your snack drawer, can make your first week back feel lighter. Next week, we're talking all about planning December lessons that work with the chaos, so make sure you’re subscribed!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-prep-for-december/Resources:December Teacher Survival KitPodcast Playlist: Teaching in DecemberHero Cheese and Herb Croissant RollsWooblesJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 17, 5 Tried and True Tips For Teaching in DecemberEpisode 107, Get Ahead For January Now With 4 Easy StepsEpisode 105, Festive Fun in December: Engaging Holiday Activities to Do With Your ClassEpisode 169, Our Best Teacher Tips for Finding Pockets of Prep Time To Get Ahead For JanuaryMentioned in this episode:Get dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at...

November can feel gray and sluggish in the classroom. This episode shares five simple classroom energy boosters to re-energize both you and your students. We walk through the five Cs of classroom re-energizing: Change, Connect, Create, Celebrate, and Center. Each C is full of practical ways to add small sparks of novelty. You’ll learn how tiny shifts, like tweaking your classroom ambiance or building connection through gratitude, can make a big difference. These strategies break routines just enough to rekindle excitement, boost engagement, and bring warmth and delight back to your classroom - one tiny shift at a time!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/classroom-energy-boosters/Resources:Relax Kids: The Wishing Star: 52 Magical Meditations for Children Relax Kids - Aladdin's Magic Carpet: Let Snow White, The Wizard of Oz and Other Fairytale Characters Show You and Your Child how to Meditate and Relax The BrickInstagram: James Cook @jamescookartworkJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 37, Holiday Behavior Management Tips to Help You Survive Until Winter Break!Episode 51, Teacher Work Smarter Tip: Plan for Inside Recess NowEpisode 53, How Teachers Can Name What Matters to Survive the Mid Year SlumpEpisode 230, How to Keep Students Engaged Through Every Season of the School YearMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and...

If the school year’s starting to feel a little messy and your routines aren’t hitting like they used to, this episode is your cue to pause for a mid-year classroom reset! We’re using the K.I.S.S. Retrospective (Keep, Improve, Stop, Start) to help you reflect on what’s working in your classroom and what needs a refresh. From routines and student behavior to differentiation and teacher workload, you’ll get practical questions, real-life examples, and permission to simplify. Tune in to reflect, reset, and head into the rest of the year with confidence and a renewed sense of joy.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/mid-year-classroom-reset/Resources:Classroom Procedures and Routines Editable Slide DecksIf It Makes You Happy by Julie OliviaA Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu MandannaJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 150, Perfect Your Classroom Procedures with the Help of Our Guiding QuestionsEpisode 173, Getting into the Nitty Gritty of Classroom Procedures and RoutinesEpisode 176, Our 4 Tried and True Tricks to Reset a Rough Day of SchoolEpisode 223, The Core 4 Routines Every Classroom Needs to Run Like ClockworkMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.

This episode is a little bit of a Frankenstein...in the best way possible. Between Halloween chaos and a behind-the-scenes project you’ll hear hints about, we’re revisiting one of our most-loved conversations on student engagement strategies. We’re breaking down how to balance structure with novelty (aka spark) through the seven “seasons” of the school year, with practical tips for keeping students engaged, energized, and thriving, no matter what time of year it is!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/student-engagement-strategies/Resources:Editable Classroom Seating Chart ToolChristmas Festive BreaksHoliday Classroom Behavior Management PlansDecember Teacher Survival KitProcedure and Routine Editable Teaching SlidesProcedure and Routine Editable Review Slides Join the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 35, 5 Ways to Increase Student Engagement – Our Secret Weapon for TeachersEpisode 91, Start Your Day Strong: Top Tips for Maximizing Your Morning WorkEpisode 104, From Chaos to Calm: 5 Techniques for Managing Classroom Behavior in DecemberEpisode 124, Spring Fever: 3 Tips to Help Your Spring Classroom Management

Halloween in the classroom can feel like wrangling a troop of caffeinated squirrels, but it doesn’t have to be chaos! In this episode, we share our top Halloween classroom management tips to keep students engaged, routines intact, AND the fun alive. From the lead-up to the big day and the reset afterward, we cover strategies like the “candy rule,” visual schedules, brain breaks, and backup plans, plus ways to handle treats, costumes, and parties so everyone feels included. With these practical tips, you can enjoy the seasonal excitement while keeping your classroom calm, focused, and full of lasting memories.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/halloween-classroom-management/Resources:Shop all our Halloween resources here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/product-category/halloween/Join the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 33, Class Party Success - Our 7 Step Class Party Planning ChecklistEpisode 34, Plan the Perfect Halloween Class Party With 7 Easy StepsEpisode 96, How to Plan an Amazing 2nd Grade Class Halloween PartyMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.

There’s nothing quite like that moment when you stand outside your classroom after being out. Will you walk into calm or chaos? In this episode, we’re sharing six simple strategies to get your classroom back on track after a sub day, whether you’ve been gone for a few hours or a few weeks. You’ll learn a step-by-step approach for resetting routines, reconnecting with students, and addressing behavior concerns in a way that restores calm and strengthens your classroom community. Walk away ready to confidently transition from substitute chaos to smooth sailing...no matter what you find when you open that door!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/resetting-after-a-substitute-teacher/Resources:Joshua Radin: One Day HomeJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 165, Keeping Students Engaged All Year Long, No Matter the SeasonEpisode 219, How to Build a Classroom Community That Lasts All YearEpisode 223, The Core 4 Routines Every Classroom Needs to Run Like ClockworkEpisode 226, The October Reset Every Teacher NeedsMentioned in this episode:Get dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trial

You’ve just wrapped up an engaging lesson, given clear directions, and most of your class is happily working…except for that one student who just will not pick up a pencil. We know how discouraging it feels when this happens, so this week we’re sharing our best strategies for handling those tough moments with empathy and intention. Discover why work refusal isn’t just defiance, what students might really be communicating, and the simple shifts that can turn resistance into engagement.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/student-work-refusal-strategies/Resources:Join the Teacher Approved Club!A Fall Day For BearA Visitor for Bear Vocabulary - Read Aloud Lesson@nococookiecakes on InstagramConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave your review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 161, How to Get Students Actively Engaged: 5 Teacher Approved TechniquesEpisode 219, How to Build a Classroom Community That Lasts All YearEpisode 223, The Core 4 Routines Every Classroom Needs to Run Like ClockworkEpisode 226, The October Reset Every Teacher NeedsMentioned in this episode:Get dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trial

Do you feel like you’re stuck in back-to-school survival mode while the rest of the year flies by? You’re not alone! In this episode, we’re talking about an October Reset for teachers - our favorite way to shift from the September sprint to a sustainable teaching routine. We’ll share five essential strategies to help you recover from the post-September crash, evaluate what’s working (and what’s not) in your classroom systems, and focus your energy where it really counts. Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/october-reset-for-teachers/Resources:Join the Teacher Approved Club!Atmosphere, by Taylor Jenkins ReidThe Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love, by India HoltonConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave your review on Apple Podcasts!Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 32, 5 Classroom Management Questions to Help Banish Bad Class HabitsEpisode 94, A Great Day Before School Even Starts: Your Perfect Teacher Morning Routine At SchoolEpisode 176, Our 4 Tried and True Tricks to Reset a Rough Day of SchoolEpisode 223, The Core 4 Routines Every Classroom Needs to Run Like ClockworkMentioned in this episode:Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trialGet dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.

The back-to-school honeymoon is over, and if your once angelic class is now fidgety and distracted, don’t panic. You haven’t lost your classroom magic! In this episode, we break down the September slump, why it’s normal, and how to use it as an opportunity to boost engagement without burning yourself out. You’ll learn five simple, low-prep ways to bring back the spark, plus how to spot the “check engine” lights that signal it’s time to revisit routines. These micro-novelties keep curiosity alive while maintaining the structure students need.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/september-slump-in-the-classroom/Resources:Digital Seating Chart ToolGlass potThe New York Times Game: PipsThe Holiday Headstart PodcastJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave your review on Apple Podcasts!Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 97, 3 Secrets For Using Your Classroom Seating Arrangement to Boost Classroom ManagementEpisode 99, Get Students Engaged with 3 Types of Active Participation StrategiesEpisode 156, Starting the School Year with Surprise and Delight: 5 Easy IdeasMentioned in this episode:Get dressed without the stress! Visit https://fashionfixmn.com/secondstorywindow for a special offer featuring a personalized body shape analysis, style quiz, and free closet clean out workbook just for teachers.Try the Teacher Approved Club free for 10 days and get one perfectly timed, research-backed strategy each month—plus support from Heidi and Emily to help you actually use it when it matters most. Start your free trial at https://secondstorywindow.net/trial