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? Click here to join the club!

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 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. Not a member yet? 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:

1. A gentle reminder that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfect
2. Why simplicity and consistency are key in classroom celebrations
3. How to keep things meaningful and fun without adding stress
4. 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? Check out the related blog post:
👉 Must-Try Tip for When a Student Refuses to Work

Want more classroom management support and resources? 

Join the Print and Play Club now! 

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:

1. Why small group time can feel overwhelming and how to ease that pressure
2. Simple ways to get started with small groups (even if you only have 10 minutes!)
3. Tips for managing the rest of the class while you're working with a group
4. What to do when things don’t go as planned
5. Encouragement to start small and build as you go

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

1. 🖨️ Print and Play Club members don’t forget to grab:
2. Ready-to-go small group activities for literacy and math
3. Center rotation tools and management visuals
4. Planning templates to keep your groups organized
5. 💌 Want more weekly support? Join the Teacher Tuesday email list

Not a member yet? Join 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

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:

1. What a student-led conference actually looks like in a Pre-K or Kindergarten classroom
2. Why it doesn’t have to be complicated (and how to keep it age-appropriate)
3. The power of students sharing their learning in their own words
4. How this approach strengthens home-school connections and builds student confidence
5. Encouragement to start small and adjust based on what works for you

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

1. Related Blog Post: Student Led Conferences in Kindergarten 
2. Join the Print and Play Club filled with classroom management, resources, and support. Join here if you're not a member already! 
3. 💌 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:

1. Why mid-year burnout is real and totally normal
2. How to give yourself permission to slow down and reflect
3. Encouragement to celebrate how far you've come, not just what’s ahead
4. A reminder that you are the constant in your students’ days and that matters more than you know
5. A few gentle prompts to help you reconnect with your “why”

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

1.  ❤️ 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. 

Not a member yet? Join Here.

1. ✉️ Weekly Pep Talks: Get more encouragement in your inbox every Tuesday with our Teacher Tuesday emails. Not on the list yet? Join 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

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: 

1. Morning arrival expectations
2. Whole-group carpet time
3. Voice level reminders
4. Clean-up transitions
5. 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:

1. 📝 Related Blog Post: 5 Classroom Routines to Review After Winter Break
2. 🖨️ 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:

1. Why the holiday season can cause a shift in classroom behavior and why that’s normal
2. The biggest mistake teachers make in December (hint: trying to do more!)
3. Alex’s go-to mindset shift that makes each day more joyful and less stressful
4. A peek into how this tip plays out in real classrooms
5. How to stay consistent, connected, and calm when excitement is high

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

1. 💡 Blog Post: #1 Tip for Teaching in December
2. 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!
3. ❤️ 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