Episode 16: 3 Simple Ways to Practice Name Writing

Helping young learners write their names is one of the first big milestones of the year. One that builds both confidence and classroom routines. But it doesn’t have to involve fancy prep or stressful drills.

In this episode, Alex shares 3 low-prep, meaningful ways to help students practice name writing throughout the day; without taking away from play and exploration.

✨ You’ll hear:

• Why name writing is the perfect early-year focus
• How to build name practice into arrival time, centers, and transitions
• A reminder that simple routines are often the most effective
• Encouragement to celebrate progress over perfection

Whether you're teaching Pre-K or Kindergarten, these tips will help you support name writing in a playful, developmentally appropriate way.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode
📖 Read the full blog post:
👉 3 Simple Ways to Practice Name Writing

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

• ✅ Editable name practice pages
• ✅ Fine motor and alphabet centers
• ✅ Morning bins and routines for independent name writing

📍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 15: Go Slow to Go Fast – Encouraging Independence in Pre-K & Kindergarten

It’s tempting to rush through routines in those first weeks. Especially when you could just tie the shoes, open the snack, or fix the problem yourself. But real classroom calm comes when we go slow first and build student independence from the ground up.

In this episode, Alex shares how to create confident, capable learners by modeling expectations, using visuals, and resisting the urge to always step in.

✨ You’ll learn:

1. Why slowing down now leads to smoother days later
2. The role of clear, consistent routines in fostering independence
3. How visuals and structured choices empower early learners
4. A mindset shift that helps you coach not fix student challenges

This is your gentle reminder: slowing down doesn’t mean you’re behind. It means you’re building something that lasts.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: How to Encourage Independent Learning in Pre-K & Kindergarten

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Visual schedules & Routine Checklists
2. ✅ Center signs and visuals to reduce repeated directions
3. ✅ Problem-solving prompts and SEL supports for independence

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

📲 Continue the conversation on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode gave you a confidence boost to slow down and model, share it with a fellow early childhood teacher who’s building independence 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 14: Should We Let Things Go More in the First Days?

In those first few days of school, we want students to feel safe, excited, and connected. Sometimes that leads us to wonder… Should I let some things slide while they adjust?

In this episode, Alex gently but clearly explains why the answer is no, and how setting expectations early (in a kind, consistent way) is one of the most supportive things we can do for our students.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why the routines you allow now become the routines that last
2. The truth about why it’s harder to tighten expectations later
3. How teaching structure actually builds trust and comfort
4. Encouragement to stay steady, even when it feels strict

This episode is your pep talk for showing up with kindness and clarity during the first days of school.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Back-to-school routines + visuals
2. ✅ Behavior support tools for transitions and expectations
3. ✅ First week plans to help you stay consistent (without burning out)

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

📲 Join the conversation on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode reassured you in your classroom leadership, pass it along to a teacher friend navigating the first week 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

Whether it’s your first first day or your tenth, that back-to-school butterfly feeling never fully goes away. And that’s okay! 

The first day of school sets the tone. With a few simple, tested tips, you can make it smooth, calm, and connection-filled.

In this episode, Alex shares five tried-and-true strategies to help you feel more prepared and confident heading into Day One with your new little learners.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. How to make meaningful first-day connections at the door
2. The one small prep step that eases nerves (and reduces chaos)
3. Why you should model everything - yes, even glue stick use
4. Favorite ways to use books for calm and connection
5. The power of flexibility, and why done is better than perfect

Whether you’re prepping your first classroom or just looking for a reset, this episode will help you start strong with heart, not hustle.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: Tested Teacher Tips for the First Day of School

📥 Grab the free Mega List of Themes & Skills:  https://thekindergartenconnection.com/free-mega-list-of-themes-and-skills-for-pre-k-and-kindergarten-lesson-plans/

(A teacher-favorite planning tool for mapping your year with confidence!)

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Ready-to-go first week activities
2. ✅ Classroom routines and visuals
3. ✅ Playful, standards-aligned centers to keep your planning stress-free

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

📲 Follow along for more back-to-school tips on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode helped calm your first-day jitters, pass it along to a fellow teacher who’s prepping 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 12: Make Your Day Count – Early Childhood Schedule Tips

Trying to fit everything into a Pre-K or Kindergarten day can feel like solving a puzzle… blindfolded… with snack time looming. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone!

In this episode, Alex shares practical tips for building a classroom schedule that actually works—one that supports connection, play, learning, and calm (yes, even with clean-up time and pull-outs on the horizon).

✨ You’ll hear:

1. The 5 key components of an effective early childhood schedule
2. Why there’s no perfect layout - and that’s actually a good thing
3. How to balance whole-group and small-group instruction
4. Encouragement if your days feel too short or too packed

Plus, a free tool to help you figure out what to teach and when.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📥 Grab the free Mega List of Themes & Skills:

https://thekindergartenconnection.com/free-mega-list-of-themes-and-skills-for-pre-k-and-kindergarten-lesson-plans/

(A full year of monthly theme and skills inspiration for Pre-K and Kindergarten!)

📖 Related blog posts:

1. Kindergarten Daily Schedule
2. Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Schedule

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Pre-planned centers and activities by theme + skill
2. ✅ Visual schedule tools and classroom management support
3. ✅ Monthly planning help to save time and reduce overwhelm

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

📲 Continue the conversation on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

If this episode helped you rethink your daily flow, share it with a teacher friend who could use the support!

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 11: Letting Go of Assigned Classroom Seating in Pre-K & Kindergarten

What if your students didn’t have assigned seats at all?

In this episode, Alex explores the benefits and challenges of moving away from traditional assigned seating in early childhood classrooms. From building independence to supporting self-regulation, you’ll hear how flexible seating routines can empower students while simplifying your daily flow.

✨ You’ll learn:

1. Why ditching assigned seats can boost classroom community
2. What routines and structures help this model work smoothly
3. Tips for introducing flexible seating with intention
4. How to support students who need consistency and predictability

Whether you’re curious about this shift or already experimenting with it, this episode will help you think through the logistics with confidence.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: Letting Go of Assigned Classroom Seating

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

⭐ Learn more about the P.L.A.Y. Course here: 

📲 Connect on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode sparked an idea or confirmed something you’ve been considering—send it to a teacher friend who’d love it 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 10: Stop Making Play a Four-Letter Word

Let’s set the record straight: play is not fluff. 

In this episode, Alex unpacks why play-based learning is real learning—especially in early childhood—and how we can stop apologizing for it.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to justify playful teaching (or been side-eyed for not doing more “rigor”), this one’s for you.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why play belongs in every early learning classroom
2. How academic and developmental goals align beautifully with play
3. What to say when others question your approach
4. A confidence boost to help you advocate for what kids truly need

Play isn’t a break from learning. It is the work of childhood. Let’s stop treating it like a four-letter word.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: Stop Making Play a Four-Letter Word

🎓 Want to build a playful classroom with purpose? Explore the P.L.A.Y. Course:

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

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

✅ Play-based centers
✅ Intentional teaching tools that support curiosity and creativity
✅ Learning Center Signs

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

📲 Connect on Instagram: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode gave you confidence in your playful approach, share it with a teacher who needs the same reminder!

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 9: 10 Ways to Make Your Classroom More Playful

Play isn't just for free choice time—it’s a powerful approach to learning. In this episode, Alex breaks down 10 simple, meaningful ways to make your classroom more playful, even within the structure of a full-day schedule.

From mindset shifts to hands-on strategies, you’ll walk away with ideas you can use right away to boost engagement, independence, and JOY in your classroom.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why playful learning doesn’t mean less structure or rigor
2. Easy ways to spark curiosity in daily routines
3. How to create space for play without adding to your plate
4. Favorite materials, phrases, and planning tools to support playful learning

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your playful toolkit, there’s something here for you!

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: 10 Ways to Incorporate More Play in the Classroom

🎓 Want to dive deeper into playful teaching? Check out the P.L.A.Y. Course:

🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Play-based centers and printables
2. ✅ Visual supports for student independence
3. ✅ Done-for-you resources that blend structure + play

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

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

💛 If this episode gave you a new idea or confirmed something you’re already doing—share it with a teacher friend who believes in learning through play!

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 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!

...

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 7: The Truth About Teachers’ Summers

“Must be nice to have summers off…” 😬

If you’ve ever heard that phrase and felt your blood pressure spike a little—you’re not alone.

In this episode, Alex gets real about what summer actually looks like for teachers. Spoiler: it’s not two months of piña coladas and pool floats (though we wish!). 

From mental recovery to prepping for a brand-new group of learners, teachers use summer differently than most people think.

✨ You’ll hear:

1. Why it’s okay if rest feels hard at first
2. The emotional weight teachers carry into summer
3. What “off” really means when you’re still thinking about 25 little humans
4. How to recharge without guilt

This one’s part pep talk, part validation—and 100% for every teacher who needs permission to slow down.

🔗 Mentioned in this episode

📖 Read the full blog post: The Truth About Teachers' Summers

🎁 Inside the Print and Play Club:

1. ✅ Summer review packets (for when you're still in prep mode)
2. ✅ Self-care tools and teacher resources to ease back-to-school planning
3. ✅ Member-only support to help you reset, recharge, and return with confidence

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

📲 Follow on Instagram for more teacher truths: @thekindergartenconnection

💛 If this episode gave you a sense of peace or a needed reminder—you’re doing enough—share it with a teacher friend.

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