Rainbow Skies for Teachers

As teachers who've been there, we know that building number fluency is about more than just drilling facts—it’s about creating engaging, confidence-boosting experiences that help students develop essential skills for problem-solving and critical thinking.

In this episode, we explore how to make fluency fun, effective, and stress-free for all learners. Alisha shares a personal classroom challenge—her highly competitive Year 2 students—and how a simple Speedy Numbers booklet transformed their motivation and engagement. 

We also discuss alternative approaches to traditional timed tests, ways to foster autonomy in learning, and how to differentiate fluency activities for all levels.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to harness competition in a positive way to build number fluency
• Why fluency is essential for higher-order thinking and problem-solving
• Creative alternatives to traditional timed tests
• How to differentiate fluency activities for struggling learners
• The importance of motivation, inclusion, and celebrating progress
  
  

We also explore strategies like personal timers, flexible question goals, peer mentoring, and the “peek and steal” method to help students build their skills while reducing math anxiety. Plus, we share real teacher success stories and practical ways to implement these ideas in your classroom.

If you are looking to implement Speedy Numbers into your classroom, the resources are linked below. 

We’d love to know: How do you build math fluency in your classroom? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @rainbowskycreations! 

Rainbows ahead, 

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Addition and Subtraction Speedy Number Booklets

Multiplication Speedy Number Booklets

Division Speedy Number Booklets

I need all of them!

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As teachers who've been there, we understand the importance of having reliable, ready-to-use resources at your fingertips. In this episode, we walk you through 12 months of free teaching resources that will make your classroom life easier and more engaging.

We're sharing our favourite freebies that we've created specifically for primary teachers, breaking them down month by month so you can plan ahead and feel prepared all year round. All 14 freebies are linked below in the resources section. 

We dive into practical ways to use these resources, share real stories from teachers who've implemented them, and discuss how these freebies can save you precious planning time while keeping your students engaged and learning.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How we create our resources for maximum impact in the classroom
• A month-by-month breakdown of free teaching resources you can start using right away
• Creative ways to implement these resources across different year levels
• Real teacher success stories and implementation strategies

We explore essential classroom resources including place value mats for maths, ANZAC Day activities, growth mindset cards, and festive end-of-year materials. Plus, we share our favourite ways to use these resources.

We'd love to know: Which of these free resources will you try first? (They are all linked below).

Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• January: Class Names Find-a-Word
• February: Place Value Mats
• March: Friends to Ten Spinner Game & Flip-it Multiplication Game
• April: ANZAC Day Word Search
• May: Number of the Day 
• June: Growth Mindset in Action Cards
• July: Making $1 Hands-on Activity
• August: How to be a Bucket Filler
• September: Roald Dahl Day Activities
• October: Spooky Number of the Day and The History of Halloween Reading task
• November: Kind Flyers for World Kindness Day
• December: Kindness Kris Kringle & Creative Thinking Christmas Prompts for Grade K-2 or Grade 3-6.

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In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of play-based learning with Amy from Planning Playtime. Whether you're new to play-based learning or looking to enhance your current approach, this episode is packed with practical insights and actionable strategies.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Amy's inspiring journey into education and the story behind Planning Playtime 
• The science-backed benefits of play-based learning in early education 
• Common misconceptions about play-based learning and how to overcome them 
• Practical tips for implementing play-based activities in your classroom

Join Amy as she unveils the magic connection between play and effective learning in early education. You'll discover practical, time-saving ways to weave play-based activities into your daily lessons, backed by evidence-based strategies that really work. From managing time constraints to balancing curriculum requirements, Amy shares simple solutions you can implement in your classroom straight away. Get ready to transform your teaching with play-based learning that truly makes a difference! 🌈

Resources mentioned in today’s episode

Discover more about Amy’s Programs on her website: https://PlanningPlaytime.com

Connect with Amy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/planningplaytime

 Connect with Amy on /facebook:https://facebook.com/planningplaytime

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Is organising reading groups at the start of the school year stressing you out? We get it. This episode is all about making your back-to-school prep for Reading Group setup smooth, efficient, and effective.

We share practical shortcuts, time-saving tips, and proven strategies to help you set up reading groups that work for you and your students. From gathering the right materials to ensuring groups are manageable and purposeful, this episode will help you feel confident and prepared. Whether you’re a new teacher or just looking for a refresh, you’ll walk away with ideas you can implement tomorrow.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of keeping your Reading Group setup simple at the start of the year
• Practical tips for organising groups without the overwhelm
• How to identify your students’ reading needs 
• Ideas for using independent activities and rotations effectively
• Strategies to save time and reduce decision fatigue as you kick off the term

We know that reading groups can feel like a big task, but with the right tools and mindset, you’ll be ready to create a routine that runs seamlessly and supports your students’ growth.

If you found this episode helpful, please take a moment to follow and review our podcast so you never miss a fresh dose of inspiration. 

For even more reading group setup inspiration, professional development, and teaching tools, visit our website at www.rainbowskycreations.com.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in today’s episode

Book Creator App

Freebie: 8 ways to efficiently run reading groups

Check out our mini course: Transform your Reading Groups

“I loved the simple steps that felt achievable right from the start. I'm seeing massive growth in my students' reading now I'm better organised!” Claire about Transform your Reading Groups.

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Are you looking for ways to bring more creativity and joy into your teaching? In this episode, we sit down with Rianna, the educator behind the popular Instagram account, @creationsineducation. Rianna shares her unique approach to blending curriculum goals with fun, hands-on activities that ignite excitement in her students and foster a love for learning. 

Rianna kicks off the conversation by sharing her approach to balancing the demands of the curriculum with her desire to make lessons fun and engaging. She encourages teachers to think outside the box—bringing lessons outside, incorporating collaborative projects, and using interactive activities to keep students motivated and on track.

When it comes to keeping students engaged, Rianna’s secret lies in tapping into their interests and showing her own enthusiasm. She believes that when a teacher enjoys the lesson, it’s contagious, and students are far more likely to be excited about learning.

In addition to her teaching work, Rianna is a published author of two books, Tale of the Trolls and Return of the Trolls, which focus on environmental awareness and the impact of our actions. She discusses her motivation behind writing these books and how she incorporates their themes into her classroom to inspire environmental consciousness among her students.

Main Talking Points:

• Balancing curriculum with creativity
• Keeping students engaged by connecting to their interests
• Classroom management as a casual teacher
• Becoming a published author with a focus on environmental themes
• Investing in versatile teaching resources for sustainable teaching

Tune in to discover her tips on teaching creatively, engaging students, and sustainable teaching practices.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to leave us a 5-star review - we will be forever grateful. 

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in today’s episode

Rianna’s books: ‘The Tale of the Trolls' and 'The Return of the Rubbish Trolls’

Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE. 

Find our UNO resources HERE.

Connect with Rianna @creationsineducation

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In this episode we’re keeping it real and sharing 5 things we would not be doing if we were teaching in the classroom this year. With years of experience in teaching and supporting educators, we’re reflecting on what really matters, what teachers can let go of, and how to approach the school year with more purpose and less stress.

We talk about setting boundaries, prioritising student learning, simplifying homework, and the importance of preparation and transparency. If you’re ready to rethink some habits, focus on what makes a real impact, and reclaim some of your time, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why setting boundaries (like not answering every email or phone call) is essential for teacher wellbeing
• The importance of prioritising student learning over unnecessary tasks
• How to reframe your approach to homework and why it might not belong in the primary classroom
• The power of slowing down and letting go of “the small stuff” to lower stress for both you and your students
• How to improve parent communication with transparency, preparation, and a proactive approach

We also discuss the value of communal classroom activities, fostering connections, and why a slight adaptation in silent reading time could be a game-changer for both students and teachers.

We would love to know what you think about these ideas? Are you willing to skip out on some of them too? Do you disagree with anything we have said? 

Rainbows ahead,

Ashleigh and Alisha

Resources mentioned in this episode

Episode 44 with Amy Green - A conversation about Teacher Wellbeing

Freebie: Advice from Teachers for Teachers

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Starting a new school year can be exciting and a little nerve-wracking for both students and teachers. In this episode, we share 5 simple and engaging icebreaker games that will help you build connections, break the awkward first-day silence, and create a positive classroom culture from day one.

These games are perfect for primary classrooms, require minimal preparation, and will get your students interacting and learning about one another while having fun. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this episode is full of practical, easy-to-implement tips to make your first few days smoother.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why icebreaker games are a must for creating a welcoming classroom environment
• 5 easy-to-prepare icebreaker activities to suit any primary classroom
• Tips to help even the shyest students feel comfortable and included
• How to turn icebreaker activities into opportunities for ongoing relationship-building
• Ways to balance fun and structure as you settle into your new class routine

Icebreaker games we talk about include:

• 2 Truths and a Lie
• Name / Class detective (grab a free copy here)
• Lucky Dip questions
• The paper plane game
• Speed friending
• Team building towers
• Place Value - Who am I

You can access more fun teaching ideas and a wealth of resources by visiting our website  www.rainbowskycreations.com

Rainbows ahead,

Ashleigh and Alisha

Resources mentioned in this episode

Grab free our Classroom Detectives template 

Get a copy of our print-and-go Icebreaker resource 

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What sets successful educators apart? We’re diving deep to uncover the secrets behind the habits that drive highly effective teachers! Join us as we explore the core practices we believe shape exceptional teaching, helping students thrive and teachers flourish.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teachers:

1. They use their time efficiently – Prioritising and managing time effectively is essential for achieving daily goals and fostering a productive classroom environment.
2. They plan ahead and know where they’re heading – These teachers have a clear vision and a roadmap, ensuring their lessons align with larger learning objectives.
3. They’re on top of data collection from the get-go – Monitoring progress and collecting data is essential for tailored support and meaningful growth for every student.
4. They focus on relationships in the classroom – Strong connections with students form the backbone of effective teaching; it’s all about trust, encouragement, and engagement.
5. They are lifelong learners – Effective teachers constantly seek to improve, staying curious, inspired, and committed to growth for themselves and their students.
6. They are team players with a positive outlook – Collaboration and optimism go hand-in-hand, creating a supportive and joyful environment for both teachers and students.
7. They are organised – With strong organisational skills, these teachers juggle tasks smoothly, reducing stress and maximizing classroom impact.

These 7 habits encapsulate the essence of highly effective educators who bring positivity and purpose to their classrooms every day. 

Do you have other habits or qualities that you think make a teacher effective? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us a message on Instagram, and let’s keep this inspiring conversation going.

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow and review our podcast so you never miss a fresh dose of inspiration. Tag us on social media when you share your thoughts—we’d love to personally thank you!

For even more classroom inspiration, professional development resources, and teaching tools, visit our website at www.rainbowskycreations.com.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in today’s episode

Surviving Teaching Your First Years Free Guide 

Follow Goodmorning Ms Foster for amazing Classroom Management Strategies

A book to check out: Atomic Habits by James Clear 

Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE. 

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We know that as a teacher, time is one of your most valuable resources. That’s why, in this episode, we’re diving into practical strategies to help you reclaim your time so you can focus on what really matters: teaching and connecting with your students. From organisation hacks to simple routines, we’re sharing tips to keep you one step ahead in your teaching life!

We break down 7 time management strategies for teachers:

1. Start with Organisation – Get organised from the start by giving everything in your classroom a “home.” Think about setting up designated spaces for teaching tools and resources to make finding items quick and easy!
2. Set Realistic Goals – Avoid overwhelming to-do lists by focusing on 2-3 priorities each day. You’ll accomplish more by staying focused, and you’ll feel great crossing those essentials off your list.
3. Create Term Systems – Establish consistent routines for your weekly and daily tasks. Knowing what you need to do on set days each week will help streamline your workload.
4. Be a Week Ahead – Plan your lessons and prep materials a week in advance. A little forward planning goes a long way toward reducing last-minute stress!
5. Work with Your Personal Productivity Rhythm – Find what time of day you’re most productive and schedule your big tasks for then, whether it’s early morning or a weekend afternoon.
6. Maintain Daily and Weekly Routines – Create routines for tasks like marking, tidying your desk, and updating your board. These habits become second nature and help keep you on top of classroom demands.
7. Limit Technology Distractions – Switch off notifications, put your phone in another room, and focus on the task at hand. With fewer distractions, you’ll be amazed at how much more you can accomplish!

Not every tip may work for everyone, but try a few and see what makes a difference for you! We hope these time-saving strategies empower you to feel more in control of your day, allowing you to save time and reduce stress in the classroom.

If you loved this episode, don’t forget leave us a 5-star rating and review!!

For more teacher PD, classroom inspiration, and a library of resources, visit www.rainbowskycreations.com.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode

Free Editable Weekly Checklist

Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE. 

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We are so excited to share this special replay episode of Ashleigh’s interview on The Teacher Approved Podcast with Emily and Heidi! We had a great conversation about supporting new teachers and how veteran educators can play a key role in helping them thrive. 

In this conversation we dive deep into the challenges of teaching, from managing imposter syndrome to finding a healthy work-life balance, our favourite tips and strategies to help teachers feel more confident and connected in their roles. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned educator, there’s something here for everyone.

Supporting new teachers isn’t just about the early weeks of the school year—it’s a year-round effort. In this episode, we discuss ways veteran teachers can mentor and guide their new colleagues, from sharing classroom management strategies to being a listening ear during the busiest times. Plus, we share how small mindset shifts, like reframing your to-do list and carving out time for self-care, can make a big difference in how teachers feel both in and out of the classroom.

Highlights from the Episode:

• Common challenges new teachers face and how to navigate them.
• Mindset shifts to help teachers manage their endless to-do lists.
• How veteran teachers can offer meaningful support to their new colleagues throughout the year.
• Practical tips for managing parent relationships and classroom routines.
• A fun game to help students move quietly through the hallways!

It was such a joy to join Emily and Heidi on their podcast. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording it! 

If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review to stay updated with the latest content. 

You can access more teacher PD, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website  www.rainbowskycreations.com.

Rainbows ahead, 

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in today’s episode

• YAY I’m a Teacher FREEBIE
• Transform your First Years - Access the course HERE.

Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE.

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About The Teacher Approved Podcast:

Do you ever feel like there’s just not enough time to be the kind of teacher you know you could be? Co-hosts (and sisters!) Heidi and Emily of Second Story Window are here to help you elevate what matters and simplify the rest. Join them as they share research-based and teacher-approved strategies to make your teaching more efficient and more effective than ever before. 

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