Transitions can be tricky especially in early childhood classrooms where students are moving from high-energy play to more focused learning activities. If you've ever felt like your classroom goes from calm to chaos (and back again!) in the blink of an eye, you're not alone. 

In this episode, we're talking all about how to help your students reset after transitions so you can move into your next activity with calm, confidence, and connection.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why transitions feel so hard for young learners and why that’s okay
2. The power of “transition bridges” like songs, visuals, and intentional cues
3. Simple tips to help kids go from silly to settled
4. Why buffer time and realistic expectations can make all the difference

✨ Key Takeaway:

You don’t need perfect transitions you just need predictable ones. With the right supports in place, your students can shift gears without the stress (and so can you!).

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:

1. Blog Post: How to Calm Down Students After Classroom Transitions 
2. Need tools to support smooth transitions? Inside the Print and Play Club, you'll find classroom chants, visual supports, calming songs, and more to make every part of your day flow with ease.

⭐ Join the Print and Play Club >> https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast

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 talking all about one of the most common challenges in early childhood: sharing and turn-taking. If your students are constantly grabbing, pouting, or saying “But I had it first!”, you’re not alone. And they’re not being “bad”, they’re still learning.

We’ll walk through developmentally appropriate ways to actually teach this skill, without relying on vague phrases like “Just take turns!” or “Use your words.”

Whether you’re looking for social stories, problem-solving visuals, or just a little encouragement, this episode is for you!

✨ You'll learn: 

1. Why sharing is hard for young children (and what they need instead)
2. The importance of teaching turn-taking before problems arise
3. How to use modeling, puppets, visuals, and specific language to guide students through social situations
4. Encouragement for the slow-and-steady process of building social skills

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the related blog post: How to Teach Sharing in Pre-K & Kindergarten

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. Bite-sized on demand classroom management videos
2. LIVE Monthly Member Management Meetups
3. Social Emotional Resources to support important topics 

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

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

Do your students struggle to sit still during circle time? You’re not alone and you’re not doing anything wrong.

 In today’s episode, we’re talking about why “criss cross applesauce” doesn’t work for every child and what to do instead.

From seating choices to circle time tips that actually increase engagement, we’ll explore small changes that make a big impact on your students’ attention, comfort, and participation.

✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

1. Why “criss cross applesauce” isn’t developmentally appropriate for all students
2. How to offer alternative seating options that help kids focus without adding chaos
3. Circle time strategies that boost listening and engagement
4. What to try when kids can’t sit still without punishment or power struggles

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

• 💡 Alternative Seating Blog Post: Offering Seating Options Beyond “Criss Cross Applesauce”
• 🧠 Circle Time Tips: How to Increase Listening and Engagement at Circle Time
• 🙌 What to Do When Kids Can’t Sit Still: Tips and Strategies for Students Who Can’t Sit Still

✨ Inside the Print and Play Club: Members get access to the Criss Cross webinar, plus classroom visuals, behavior tools, and flexible seating resources.

Join the Print and Play Club here - https://printandplayclub.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=podcast

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

Episode 24: Off-Topic Stories at the Worst Times? Try This

You're in the middle of a mini-lesson, and a little hand shoots up... not with an answer, but with a totally unrelated story about their dog or grandma’s birthday party. Sound familiar?

In this short and actionable episode, Alex shares exactly how to manage off-topic stories without shutting kids down, and how to gently guide your class back on track while still honoring their voices.

✨ You’ll learn:

1. Why off-topic storytelling is developmentally normal (and not “bad behavior”)
2. What to say when a student interrupts with a story mid-lesson
3. A classroom-tested strategy for reducing interruptions with kindness
4. How to validate student voices without derailing your instruction

This is a go-to strategy for whole-group calm and connection and it starts with just one simple shift.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: How to Keep Kids on Task During Whole Group Instruction

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Visual routines for whole-group behavior expectations
2. ✅ Pocket Chart Songs and Games perfect for mini-lessons
3. ✅ Management strategies for transitions and attention-getters

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

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

Episode 23: Consequences That Actually Work in Pre-K & Kindergarten

If you’ve ever felt stuck between ignoring a behavior or dishing out a consequence that doesn’t feel quite right- you’re not alone.

In this episode, Alex breaks down how to use consequences effectively in early childhood classrooms; so they actually teach, not just punish. You’ll hear about natural consequences, respectful tone, and real classroom examples you can use to guide your students with compassion and clarity.

✨ You’ll learn:

1. Why consequences aren’t the same as punishments
2. The difference between natural and logical consequences
3. How to stay calm and consistent without being “mean”
4. What to say when students push back or test boundaries

Whether you’re new to early childhood or just need a reset, this episode will give you confidence to use consequences that build connection, not conflict.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: The Importance of Classroom Consequences in Pre-K & Kindergarten

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Visuals for routines, choices, and problem-solving
2. ✅ Social-emotional mini-lessons for teaching expectations
3. ✅ Quick bite-sized videos to help you handle a variety of classroom management struggles

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

📲 For more behavior support tips, come follow along on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode helped you reframe consequences in your classroom, share it with a teacher friend who could use the support 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

Episode 22: What to Do When Kids Pout

You ask a student to clean up or join the group… and they cross their arms, drop their head, and freeze. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a battle of wills with a pouting student, you’re not alone.

In this episode, Alex shares what’s really going on when students pout and how to respond with calm, connection, and confidence (instead of power struggles).

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why pouting is often a shutdown response, not “defiance”
2. How to shift your mindset when a student refuses to participate
3. Practical language you can use in the moment
4. Encouragement to stay regulated, even when it’s hard

You’ll walk away with realistic, compassionate tips to handle pouting in ways that build trust and help your classroom stay on track.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: Must-Try Teacher Tips for When Kids Pout

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Social-emotional visuals and calm corner tools
2. ✅ Problem-solving prompts and student response visuals
3. ✅ Quick On-Demand Classroom Management videos 

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

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

A thriving art center doesn’t need to be messy, chaotic, or adult-directed. In fact, with just a few thoughtful strategies, your art area can become one of the most independent and purposeful spaces in your classroom.

In this episode, Alex shares her best tips for setting up a successful, student-led art center that encourages creativity, builds confidence, and runs smoothly all year long.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. The #1 mindset shift for embracing child-led art
2. How to introduce materials so students can use them independently
3. Tips for managing supplies, expectations, and cleanup
4. Why process art beats product art every time (especially for early learners!)

This episode will help you rethink what’s possible in your classroom art space—with less stress and more joy!

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog posts:

1. Tips for an Independent Pre-K & Kindergarten Art Center
2. How to Set Up an Independent Classroom Art Center

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Visual routines and picture labels for classroom centers
2. ✅ Planning tools and monthly themes to support independent stations
3. ✅ Art Ideas and Inspiration

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

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

Episode 20: The Easiest Way to Build Scissor Skills 

Want to improve your students’ fine motor skills- without adding more to your prep list? 

In this episode, Alex shares a super simple solution for consistent cutting practice that’s teacher-friendly and student-approved: The Cutting Jar.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why scissor skills matter more than just cutting shapes
2. The problem with only offering occasional cutting activities
3. How the Cutting Jar builds independence and consistency
4. Simple routines to make fine motor practice part of the day

Whether you’re starting the year or supporting ongoing skills, this is a tip you’ll come back to again and again.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: Simple Scissor Skills Practice for the Classroom

✂️ Grab the Cutting Jar Mini Training:

1. ✅ Printable cutting strips (leveled for different skill sets)
2. ✅ Fine motor starter kit for easy setup
3. ✅ BONUS: ABC Cutting Practice Book

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Cutting Jar Training
2. ✅ Cutting Jar Printable Pack
3. ✅ Additional fine motor centers
4. ✅ So Much More! 

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

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

Episode 19: How to Make Clean-Up Fast, Fun, and Stress-Free

If clean-up time feels chaotic or takes forever, you’re not alone. But what if this part of your day could be smoother, faster and even fun?

In this episode, Alex shares easy, actionable tips to transform your clean-up routine into a calm, consistent system your students can follow (and even enjoy!). You’ll walk away with ideas that you can try tomorrow.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why clean-up struggles are totally normal and fixable
2. The role of visual cues, clear expectations, and transition time
3. How using clean-up songs and countdowns can shift the vibe entirely
4. A mindset shift that takes the pressure off you to do it all

From quick transitions to building classroom responsibility, this episode is packed with tips to help your day end on a high note.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the related blog posts:

1. How to Make Classroom Clean-Up Fast and Fun
2. Must-Try Classroom Clean-Up Tip
3. Clean-Up Songs for Pre-K and Kindergarten

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. Routine Cheat Sheets 
2. Classroom management tools for smooth transitions
3. Plus so much more! 

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

📲 Come say hi on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 Love a good tip that saves your voice and your sanity? Share this episode with a teacher friend who needs smoother clean-ups 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

Episode 18: Managing Big Emotions - A Must-Try Social-Emotional Tip

Helping young children handle big feelings is one of the most important and often most challenging parts of early childhood teaching. 

In this episode, Alex shares one powerful, simple strategy that helps students build emotional awareness and empowers them to self-regulate.

Whether you're working with Pre-K, TK, or Kindergarten, this tip is easy to implement and creates meaningful moments of connection and calm in your classroom.

✨ You’ll learn:

1. Why teaching emotional language is essential (and often overlooked)
2. How to model and practice emotion identification during your daily routine
3. A simple tool to help students express how they feel and what they need
4. Encouragement to focus on growth, not perfection, with SEL

This isn’t about eliminating big feelings. It’s about giving students the tools to understand and manage them. ❤️

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: Must-Try Tip for Teaching Social-Emotional Skills

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Emotion visuals and social-emotional tools
2. ✅ Calm corner printables and routine charts
3. ✅ SEL mini-lessons designed for real early childhood classrooms

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

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