In this episode we’re keeping it real and sharing 5 things we would not be doing if we were teaching in the classroom this year. With years of experience in teaching and supporting educators, we’re reflecting on what really matters, what teachers can let go of, and how to approach the school year with more purpose and less stress.

We talk about setting boundaries, prioritising student learning, simplifying homework, and the importance of preparation and transparency. If you’re ready to rethink some habits, focus on what makes a real impact, and reclaim some of your time, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why setting boundaries (like not answering every email or phone call) is essential for teacher wellbeing
• The importance of prioritising student learning over unnecessary tasks
• How to reframe your approach to homework and why it might not belong in the primary classroom
• The power of slowing down and letting go of “the small stuff” to lower stress for both you and your students
• How to improve parent communication with transparency, preparation, and a proactive approach

We also discuss the value of communal classroom activities, fostering connections, and why a slight adaptation in silent reading time could be a game-changer for both students and teachers.

We would love to know what you think about these ideas? Are you willing to skip out on some of them too? Do you disagree with anything we have said?

Rainbows ahead,

Ashleigh and Alisha

Resources mentioned in this episode

Episode 44 with Amy Green - A conversation about Teacher Wellbeing

Freebie: Advice from Teachers for Teachers

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Starting a new school year can be exciting and a little nerve-wracking for both students and teachers. In this episode, we share 5 simple and engaging icebreaker games that will help you build connections, break the awkward first-day silence, and create a positive classroom culture from day one.

These games are perfect for primary classrooms, require minimal preparation, and will get your students interacting and learning about one another while having fun. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this episode is full of practical, easy-to-implement tips to make your first few days smoother.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why icebreaker games are a must for creating a welcoming classroom environment
• 5 easy-to-prepare icebreaker activities to suit any primary classroom
• Tips to help even the shyest students feel comfortable and included
• How to turn icebreaker activities into opportunities for ongoing relationship-building
• Ways to balance fun and structure as you settle into your new class routine

Icebreaker games we talk about include:

• 2 Truths and a Lie
• Name / Class detective (grab a free copy here)
• Lucky Dip questions
• The paper plane game
• Speed friending
• Team building towers
• Place Value - Who am I

You can access more fun teaching ideas and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com

Rainbows ahead,

Ashleigh and Alisha

Resources mentioned in this episode

Grab free our Classroom Detectives template

Get a copy of our print-and-go Icebreaker resource

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What sets successful educators apart? We’re diving deep to uncover the secrets behind the habits that drive highly effective teachers! Join us as we explore the core practices we believe shape exceptional teaching, helping students thrive and teachers flourish.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teachers:

1. They use their time efficiently – Prioritising and managing time effectively is essential for achieving daily goals and fostering a productive classroom environment.
2. They plan ahead and know where they’re heading – These teachers have a clear vision and a roadmap, ensuring their lessons align with larger learning objectives.
3. They’re on top of data collection from the get-go – Monitoring progress and collecting data is essential for tailored support and meaningful growth for every student.
4. They focus on relationships in the classroom – Strong connections with students form the backbone of effective teaching; it’s all about trust, encouragement, and engagement.
5. They are lifelong learners – Effective teachers constantly seek to improve, staying curious, inspired, and committed to growth for themselves and their students.
6. They are team players with a positive outlook – Collaboration and optimism go hand-in-hand, creating a supportive and joyful environment for both teachers and students.
7. They are organised – With strong organisational skills, these teachers juggle tasks smoothly, reducing stress and maximizing classroom impact.

These 7 habits encapsulate the essence of highly effective educators who bring positivity and purpose to their classrooms every day.

Do you have other habits or qualities that you think make a teacher effective? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us a message on Instagram, and let’s keep this inspiring conversation going.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow and review our podcast so you never miss a fresh dose of inspiration. Tag us on social media when you share your thoughts—we’d love to personally thank you!

For even more classroom inspiration, professional development resources, and teaching tools, visit our website at www.rainbowskycreations.com.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in today’s episode

Surviving Teaching Your First Years Free Guide

Follow Goodmorning Ms Foster for amazing Classroom Management Strategies

A book to check out: Atomic Habits by James Clear

Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE.

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