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The back-to-school jitters aren't just for students—teachers face them too! As summer winds down and classrooms beckon, even the most experienced educators find themselves wrestling with familiar questions about those crucial first weeks.

This episode dives into three universal teacher concerns. First, we explore which classroom routines deserve immediate attention during those precious opening days. Beyond just covering the basics of lining up and supply management, you'll discover the game-changing "Three Before Me" strategy that transforms student independence while saving your sanity from endless interruptions. You'll learn practical ways to make routine practice engaging rather than tedious, and why focusing on just a few key procedures initially yields better results than overwhelming students with every classroom rule at once.

Next, we tackle the delicate balance of behavior management. Forget the outdated "don't smile until Christmas" advice—you can establish clear boundaries without becoming the feared disciplinarian. The secret lies in mutual respect and consistent kindness. Students who feel genuinely seen and appreciated naturally rise to meet expectations, creating a classroom culture where learning thrives. Discover specific language and strategies to redirect behaviors while preserving student dignity and strengthening your classroom community.

Finally, for those feeling overwhelmed before the first bell even rings, there's reassuring perspective about classroom readiness. The perfectly decorated, meticulously organized spaces showcased on social media represent an unrealistic standard. Real teaching happens in spaces built with flexibility, authentic connection, and responsiveness to the actual students who walk through your door. Your presence and relationship-building skills matter infinitely more than picture-perfect bulletin boards.

Whether you're stepping into your first classroom or your twenty-first, these honest, practical answers will help you approach the new year with confidence and calm. Remember—you bring the magic that transforms four walls into a place of growth and discovery. Here's to finding joy in the journey!

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix, and if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast, and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

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Feeling that end-of-summer anxiety creeping in as the new school year approaches? Take a deep breath – you're not alone, and there's a better way to start the year.

The transition from summer relaxation to classroom chaos doesn't have to leave you exhausted by September. In this episode, we explore three gentle, practical approaches that will help you ease back into teaching without burning out in the first few weeks. Rather than diving headfirst into curriculum, discover why a "soft launch" focused on relationships and routines creates a stronger foundation for the entire year. Learn how to transform your classroom into what I call a "calm command center" with simple personal touches that energize rather than deplete you.

Most importantly, we discuss the power of gradually implementing classroom systems instead of trying to perfect everything on day one. I share specific examples from my own teaching experience, including how I made learning procedures fun and engaging through movement and collaboration. These strategies aren't just about making the first week easier – they're about setting a sustainable pace that will carry you through the entire school year with more joy and less exhaustion.

As we prepare to welcome students back, remember this truth: "Kids benefit the most from a teacher who is grounded and not frazzled." Your well-being directly impacts your teaching effectiveness. So give yourself permission to start gently and intentionally this year. Your future self (especially that mid-October version who's usually running on fumes) will thank you!

Ready to make this your most balanced school year yet? Listen now, and don't forget to subscribe for more practical teaching wisdom delivered with honesty and heart.

Support the show

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix, and if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast, and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

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Ever noticed how some kids love science and building but turn away from books? That disconnect isn't just frustrating—it's a missed opportunity for deeper learning. What if we could harness their natural STEM enthusiasm to ignite a love for reading?

In this episode, we dive into three exceptional STEM-themed books that captivate reluctant readers by connecting directly to their curiosity and creative instincts. Ada Twist, Scientist shows children that reading can be part of the investigation process, encouraging them to develop their own experiments inspired by Ada's adventures. What Do You Do With an Idea? transforms abstract concepts into hands-on building opportunities, allowing children to explore and express their own ideas through making. And Iggy Peck, Architect bridges engineering challenges with literacy, getting kids moving, building, and thinking critically while engaging with text.

These aren't just reading recommendations—they're complete learning experiences. For each book, we break down exactly why certain children resist reading, how these particular stories address those barriers, and step-by-step activities that extend the reading experience into meaningful STEM challenges. You'll discover how to transform reading from a passive activity into an active, creative process that honors how these children naturally learn and engage with the world.

Whether you're a teacher planning for the upcoming school year or a parent trying to keep learning alive during summer, these strategies require minimal prep while delivering maximum engagement. The secret lies in starting with books that connect to your child's natural curiosities, then giving them opportunities to create something meaningful from what they've read. Ready to make reading irresistible? Grab our free "After the Fall" building challenge in the show notes and subscribe for more practical ideas that blend literacy with hands-on learning.

🎁 Bonus! Download my STEM Story Connection Focusing on Grit in After the Fall
👉 https://www.trinadeboreeteachingandlearning.com/grit
👉https://www.trinadeboreeteachingandlearning.com/for-the-love-of-reading

Support the show

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix, and if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast, and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!