Could undiagnosed vision issues be holding your students back? In this eye-opening episode, Ash chats with behavioural optometrist Amy Fortescue to unpack how children’s vision, far beyond just 20/20 eyesight, can deeply affect their learning, behaviour, and classroom confidence.

Amy introduces us to the world of behavioural optometry, where the eyes are seen as an extension of the brain. Together, Ash and Amy explore how visual challenges like eye tracking issues, visual processing delays, and undetected long-sightedness can impact everything from reading fluency to attention and even writing development.

Plus, Amy shares practical signs for teachers to look out for, classroom strategies to support visual learners, and why a standard preschool screening often isn’t enough.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• What behavioural optometry is and why it matters in education
• How to spot hidden vision problems in your classroom
• How eye tracking affects reading—and what can help
• The surprising overlap between vision issues and ADHD symptoms

Key Takeaways:

• Vision is more than sight - it’s how the brain processes what the eyes see.
• Children with learning challenges may have undiagnosed visual issues, even if they pass standard screenings.
• Classroom strategies like deep breathing, and seating can boost reading and focus.
• Visual perceptual skills, not just fine motor, may impact handwriting, OTs and optometrists both play a role.
• A collaborative, whole-child approach is key: “It’s not always either vision or attention, it can be both.”

From personal stories to professional insights, this episode is packed with knowledge that could make a world of difference for the students in your care.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Amy on Instagram @amyfortescueoptom

Learn more about behavioural optometry here

Find Amy’s eye exercises here

Listen to an episode about The Science of Reading here. 

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About Today’s Guest

Amy Fortescue is a behavioural optometrist based in Southern Sydney with a passion for paediatric eye care. She completed her Bachelor of Optometry and Bachelor of Science in 2010, earning top honours in children’s vision and binocular vision, an early sign of the career path she was destined to follow.

Amy’s journey into optometry began in her father’s practice in Ramsgate Beach, where she started helping out as soon as she was old enough to file record cards and fold newsletters. She continued working there until August 2025, building years of hands-on experience and deep community ties.

Since graduating, Amy has pursued extensive additional training in behavioural optometry and is now preparing to open her own practice in Autumn 2026.

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year… especially when you’re a teacher with FREE Christmas resources up your sleeve!

In this merry little episode, we unwrap all the goodness inside our 7 Days of Christmas celebration - a free, festive giveaway packed with engaging, educational, and totally classroom-ready activities for the end of the school year or countdown to winter break.

Whether you're teaching in Australia or the Northern Hemisphere, these resources are made for YOU. They are all print-and-go, adaptable across year levels, and designed to boost learning through creativity and fun.

From Christmas-themed Code Crackers to the Kris Kringle Kindness Tree, we’ve thought of everything to help you wind down the term while still packing in purposeful learning.

Inside this episode, you’ll discover:

• The 7 types of Christmas resources we’re gifting you (yes, for free!)
• How to integrate festive learning without the fluff
• Simple ways to build in student choice, teamwork, and differentiation
• Our favourite tips for making the most of these activities
• How to sign up and start receiving your festive freebies!

Sign up for our 7 Days of Christmas and you will get:

• Code Crackers to build problem-solving and teamwork
• Christmas themed UNO games
• Creative Thinking Prompts (perfect for calming that pre-holiday energy!)
• MultiplicationFlip It & Friends to 10 games for hands-on maths fun
• Christmas Number of the Day (differentiated across year levels!)
• Chatterboxes to revise number facts and multiplication
• Kris Kringle Kindness Tree to spread joy and connection

We are excited to be gifting all of our wonderful listeners with these free Christmas resources! Don’t forget to sign up so you don’t miss out.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Sign up for our 7 Days of Christmas

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Today, we’re popping the confetti, lighting the birthday candles, and getting real about our personal truths behind teaching and education. 

To celebrate our second podcast birthday, we’re bringing you an extra special format: 2 teachers, 2 things we’ve learned, 2 things we’ve changed our minds about.

From rethinking teaching strategies to embracing a more relaxed classroom culture, we’re sharing the moments (and guest episodes!) that shifted our perspectives, reignited our passion, and made us better educators, and humans.

We’re also giving some love to the guests who’ve left a lasting impact on our journey, including episodes on the Science of Reading, outdoor learning, and building school community.

In This Episode You Will Discover:

• The power of adapting (not overhauling) your teaching practice
• Why slowing down in the classroom can be your secret weapon
• Letting go of the hustle and embracing joy in the everyday
• How your local community can enrich student learning
• What we’ve learned from some of our most-loved episodes

If you’ve been with us from the start or just found us this term, thank YOU for being part of this growing teacher community. There are rainbows ahead, and together we’re unstoppable!

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Episode 29 with Malia about the Science of Reading

Episode 52 with Kylie Atlier about your Teaching Village

Episode 88 with Victoria about Outdoor Learning

Episode 57 with Ash Curmi about Behaviour and Connection

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It’s time to move beyond cupcakes in the staffroom and colourful sock days. In this powerful episode, wellbeing expert and veteran teacher Daniela Falecki joins us to unpack what true educator wellbeing really means and how to create it.

With over 30 years in education and a decade focused on staff wellbeing across global schools, Daniela offers a fresh, evidence-based lens grounded in organisational psychology. We explore practical, empowering strategies that move the needle on wellbeing, including how to manage energy, reframe your to-do list, and create a culture of care without waiting for system-wide change.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why surface-level morale boosters aren’t enough (and what works instead)
• The difference between “being well” and “well-doing”
• How to use energy, not time, as your measure of wellbeing
• How to recharge daily instead of waiting for term breaks
• The THRIVE model for energy and wellbeing
• Ways leaders can support staff without increasing workload
• The power of language, coaching, and connection in school culture
• How to celebrate progress with “achievement lists” (goodbye, endless to-dos!)

If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty or that wellbeing has become a buzzword with no real action, this episode is the reset you’ve been looking for.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Check out Daniela’s website: https://www.teacher-wellbeing.com.au/ (on the homepage download her free Ebook “Foundations of Teacher Wellbeing”) 
• Free resources, publications and podcasts here: https://www.teacher-wellbeing.com.au/resources  
• Shop for card games and books: https://ppj18g-cz.myshopify.com/  
• Connect with Daniela on social media: Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn 
• Jump on the waitlist for the Reignite Room

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About Today’s Guest:

Daniela Falecki, founder of Teacher Wellbeing, is an international speaker, author, and the “keep-it-real” teacher, known for her high-energy, engaging presentations that leave audiences laughing and thinking. 

With over 30 years of experience in Australian schools and a background in Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, Daniela empowers educators globally to enhance their wellbeing. She holds a Master’s in Education (Leadership) and has lectured at Sydney University and Western Sydney university where she was named Lecturer of the Year. She is a licensed Mental Toughness practitioner and certified Executive Coach, Daniela is committed to supporting educators in thriving both personally and professionally.

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Let’s sprinkle a little more kindness into our classrooms. With World Kindness Day on 13th November, now is the perfect time to create meaningful moments that teach students the power of compassion, community, and connection.

In this episode, we’re sharing practical, heartwarming, and low-prep ways to promote kindness in your classroom. You may be tackling tricky end-of-year behaviours or just want to boost your classroom culture, these ideas are easy to implement and impactful for all age groups.

Here’s what we explore in this episode:

• How to run a Kindness Campaign using tear-away flyers (it’s nostalgic and effective!)
• Teaching manners and empathy through classroom modelling
• The importance of compliments and how to shift the focus from appearance to character
• Using picture books to spark conversations and build emotional intelligence
• Ideas like compliment jars or wreaths, dominoes, and bucket filler crafts that celebrate acts of kindness across your school community

Whether you're looking for one small activity or planning a whole week of kindness, we’ve got you covered. These activities will help your students recognise the importance of their words and actions to create ripples of positivity that go beyond the classroom walls.

Rainbows ahead, teachers - you’ve got this,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Kindness Campaign Flyer Templates (FREE)
• Kindness Classroom Pack 
• The Hive – Kindness Dominoes (use the code ASHLEIGH15 for 15% off)
• Bucket Filler activity (FREE)
• Compliment Jar lesson
• Christmas Compliment Wreaths
• Kindness Banner - In a world where you can be anything, be kind! (FREE)

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Teaching students with ADHD doesn't have to feel overwhelming. In this enlightening episode, ADHD coach Sharon Collon joins us to share practical, brain-friendly strategies to help these incredible learners thrive.

With a warm, collaborative approach, Sharon explains how teachers can better understand ADHD, build strong relationships, and support executive functioning in the classroom. You’ll walk away with a toolkit of ideas to reduce overwhelm, manage behaviour positively, and create a learning space where every student can shine.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why ADHD is not a behavioural issue, but a brain-based difference
• The importance of connection over correction
• How “open brain” strategies like novelty, praise, and curiosity unlock student engagement
• Tools to break down instructions and reduce overwhelm
• How to use visual supports and movement to support focus
• Strategies to respond to dysregulation and meltdowns with calm and care
• Tips for building positive partnerships with parents of ADHD students
• What ADHD coaching is and how it differs from therapy

This episode will leave you feeling empowered, informed, and ready to take action, because together, we grow.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Sharon on Instagram @thefunctionalfamily, Facebook or YouTube
• Visit Sharon’s website: https://www.thefunctionalfamily.com/ 

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About Today’s Guest:

Sharon Collon is an award-winning credentialed ADHD coach & parenting expert who provides life changing practical strategies and support for families navigating ADHD. 

Sharon's business The Functional Family has supported over 40,000 families. She knows first hand through her own family's journey the amazing impact teachers can have and she is here to support us with ADHD friendly strategies to support everyone in the classroom. 

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In this inspiring episode, Ashleigh sits down with passionate educator and podcast host Mathew Green for a heartfelt conversation that reminds us why we teach. Together, we explore the deeper purpose behind classroom leadership, the power of meaningful student connections, and the evolution of teaching from compliance to care.

Mathew shares his career journey, from questioning his own "why" to rediscovering it during a pivotal job interview. He opens up about classroom management strategies that actually work, what restorative practices look like in real classrooms, and how leadership is less about control and more about connection.

What we cover (spoiler alert: it is a lot!):

• The shift from compliance to connection in classroom management
• Simple strategies to create calm, structured learning spaces
• Mathew’s take on student feedback and authentic relationships
• Restorative practices and their impact on school culture
• Why your “why” matters more than your title
• Leading with care and courage in challenging school environments

Whether you’re in your first year of teaching, been teaching for years or stepping into a leadership role, this episode is packed with practical tips and gentle reminders that your work as an educator matters!

Rainbows Ahead, 

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Mat on IG @theartofteachingpodcast or on X @mathewogreen 
• Mat’s website: https://www.mathewgreen.com/hello/
• Listen to The Art of Teaching Podcast here.  
• Listen to Mat interview Ash on the Art of Teaching Podcast - Interview 1 and Interview 2

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About Today’s Guest:

Teaching is more than just a profession for Mathew, it’s a powerful opportunity to shape lives. For some students, it can change the entire course of their future.

Mathew’s career has taken him from low socio-economic government schools to high-achieving independent schools across Sydney, giving him a broad perspective on the diverse needs of learners and their communities. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Education from the University of Sydney, a Master of Teaching from the University of Western Sydney, and a Master’s in Instructional Leadership from the University of Melbourne.

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Halloween isn’t just about costumes and lollies, it’s a golden opportunity to spark excitement and curiosity when it comes to learning in the classroom!

In this episode, we’re sharing our favourite ways to weave Halloween magic into your math lessons. From board games to fluency fun, these activities are all about boosting engagement without adding extra workload.

We walk through five Halloween-inspired math activities that help students practise essential skills while embracing the seasonal spirit. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute activity or planning a full Halloween week, there’s something in here for you.

Here’s what we cover:

• How to use Halloween themed board games to reinforce maths concepts
• A creative twist on “fortune tellers” with our timestable chatterboxes
• How to turn “Number of the Day” into a spooky math go-to
• Fluency-building activities that double as formative assessment
• Our go-to Halloween resources, including free downloads!

These activities are easy to prep, fun to use, and flexible enough to suit your learners’ needs. So throw on your teacher witch hat, and let’s make maths spooktacularly fun!

Resources mentioned in this episode are linked below—because we’re all about working smarter, not harder.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Print-and-go Halloween Math Activities for Grades 1-2 (including board games and number sorts)

Print-and-go Halloween Math Activities for Grades 3-4 (including board games and number sorts)

FREE Spooky Number of the Day

Spooky Number of the Day - Full set

Halloween Chatterboxes - Multiplication

Halloween Chatterboxes - Addition and Subtraction

Chatterboxes for any occasion

FREE The History of Halloween activity

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STEM doesn’t have to be one more thing on your overflowing to-do list, it can actually make learning more fun, engaging, and hands-on (three things we are all about here at Rainbow Sky Creations). 

In this energising episode, Ash chats with educator and STEM advocate Dena Scoullos about how classroom teachers can easily integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) into everyday learning.

Dena shares how she fell in love with STEM and discovered how it sparks creativity, problem solving, and collaboration in her students. Whether you're brand new to the concept or already dabbling in maker spaces and coding apps, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to explore the creative side of STEM, without needing to be a tech expert.

What We Discuss:

• Why STEM is fun, future-focused and more accessible than you think
• How to integrate STEM into your existing units (without extra work!)
• Must-have materials for a simple classroom STEM or maker space
• Storybook-inspired STEM challenges your students will love
• Quick STEM ideas for early finishers
• How to build creativity and resilience through problem solving
• Tech tools even non-techy teachers can use with confidence
• Encouragement for teachers who feel unsure about teaching STEM

By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, book-inspired challenges, early-finisher ideas, and tech tools that are fun, low-prep, and classroom-tested. There’s a whole world of learning possibilities, let’s explore them together!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Find Dena’s book “Let’s Explore STEM” here (also available on Amazon)

Connect with Dena on Instagram @misstechqueen or visit her website for more STEM ideas www.misstechqueen.com 

Building task cards

Steam art sheets (for fast finishers)

https://misstechqueen.com/freestemchallenge/ 

Coding links: https://code.org/en-US and https://www.kodable.com/ 

Miss Tech Queen TPT store - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/miss-tech-queen-stem 

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About Today’s Guest:

Dena Scoullos is a technology & enrichment teacher in Hazlet, New Jersey, teaching grades 1-4. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes technology, STEM, project-based learning, and hands-on activities. Outside the classroom, she runs an online store, Miss Tech Queen, on TPT, providing lesson plans, worksheets, and other resources to educators worldwide. Dena is also a published author and wrote a book titled, “Let’s Explore STEM.” Dena has shared her passion for using technology in the classroom by presenting professional development workshops

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We’re popping the confetti because Rainbow Skies for Teachers has hit 100 episodes! To celebrate this massive milestone, we are answering your burning questions in a special “Ask Us Anything” edition. From classroom chaos to content creation, we’re pulling back the curtain on our journey, favourite tools, and everything in between.

This episode is filled with honest reflections, helpful tips, and heartfelt advice, perfect for early career and experienced teachers alike. Whether you’re curious about starting your own podcast, handling tough classroom behaviour, or just want a peek behind the curtain, this one’s for you.

In this celebratory episode, we answer questions like:

• How did we transition from classroom teaching to creating resources full-time?
• Who inspires us in the teacher creator space?
• What’s our go-to classroom organisation hack?
• What’s one must-have resource every primary teacher should own?
• How do we handle those off-the-rails days when nothing goes to plan?
• Which school event do we love the most?

Plus, we spill the beans on:

• The origin story of the podcast
• The future of our beloved UNO-inspired math activities
• Our favourite teacher creators doing amazing things

This episode is equal parts celebration and support. We couldn’t have made it to 100 episodes without YOU, our incredible community. Thank you for being part of the Rainbow Sky journey!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Get 15% off The Hive here use the code ASHLEIGH15

Check out our UNO card activities here.

Teacher Creators We Love:

• The Kindergarten Connection
• Playdough to Plato - Listen to Malia on our podcast here
• Mrs Learning Bee / The Hive - Listen to Tam and Jez on our podcast here
• Educate & Rejuvenate - Listen to Kelsey on our podcast here
• Easy Teaching Tools

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