Episode 8: Tools for Making Your Classroom More Playful

Want to make your classroom feel more playful—but not sure where to start? You’re not alone!

In this episode, Alex shares simple tools and mindset shifts to bring more joy and curiosity into your daily routine—without scraping your entire plan or adding hours to your prep.

✨ You’ll learn:

1. What “playful” actually means in a structured classroom
2. Why playful learning doesn’t mean chaotic learning
3. Specific classroom tools that support play-based instruction
4. Easy ways to start small and build a culture of curiosity and connection

Because playful doesn’t mean “more work.” It means more joy—for your students and you.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📘 Check out the P.L.A.Y. Course for a deeper dive into playful learning:

👉 https://thekindergartenconnection.lpages.co/play-course-2025/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast

⭐ Check out the article on the blog: https://thekindergartenconnection.com/must-try-strategies-and-tools-for-creating-a-playful-classroom/

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Ready-to-go playful centers
2. ✅ Visual supports and learning games
3. ✅ Planning tools that save time while inviting exploration

📍Join the Club: https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast

📲 Follow along for more playful tips on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode sparked new ideas, share it with a teacher friend and tag us with your favorite playful moment!

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!

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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