Rainbow Skies for Teachers

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 in her district, ISTE, Teach with Tech, and Launch Into Tech Online Conferences.

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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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Today we sit down with educator and tech thinker Matt Esterman to unpack the current and future role of AI in education. 

From low-risk ways to explore AI tools to fostering student AI literacy, they dive deep into how teachers can harness AI for planning, differentiation, admin support, and more. Together, we tackle big-picture topics like ethics, privacy, and school-wide policies, while keeping things grounded in practical classroom strategies. 

Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting, this episode offers inspiration and tools to confidently explore AI in your teaching practice.

Key points we discuss in this episode:

• Easy and safe ways to experiment with AI in your planning and classroom
• Recommended tools: Perplexity, Diffit, and Brisk for teacher efficiency
• How to guide students in using AI responsibly
• Tips for maintaining privacy with AI
• The importance of critical thinking and AI literacy for future-ready learners
• Creative uses for AI

AI is here to stay and Matt Easterman is leading the way when it comes to opening up the discussion in our we can use it successfully in our classroom as teachers and for our students.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Matt on Linkedin or check out his website

AI Tools Matt spoke about: Perplexity, Diffit, and Brisk

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In this rich and encouraging chat, we explore how teachers can meet the needs of every student, without feeling like they need to do everything. Dr Maggie offers real-life, research-backed strategies for creating inclusive, emotionally safe, and engaging classrooms with just a few thoughtful tweaks.

 In this episode, we explore:

• What diverse student populations really look like in primary classrooms today
• Everyday, achievable ways to embed social-emotional learning (SEL) into your routines
• Practical strategies for supporting English language learners (ELLs)
• The tiny shifts that make a big difference—no overhauls required!
• What trauma-informed teaching looks like in a realistic school setting
• Why celebrating small wins can reignite your confidence and momentum

Dr Maggie also shares powerful insights on teacher wellbeing, emotional labour, and how creating a classroom culture of care benefits both students and educators.

Whether you're teaching a classroom filled with different languages, needs, and learning styles - or simply striving to support every student more intentionally - this episode will leave you feeling inspired and better equipped.

Rainbows Ahead, 

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Reach out to Dr Maggie Broderick on LinkIn or via email at [email protected]
• National University 
• Frameworks for Multi-Tiered Systems of Support for Trauma-Informed Educational Settings By Jennifer Lauren Aniano
• More about Kimberlé Crenshaw and her research
• Casel Framework: Advanced Social and Emotional Learning
• Harmony Academy

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Ready to turn play into powerful learning? In this episode, we are diving into creative and cost-effective ways to repurpose familiar games for classroom learning. From Jenga to Connect 4, we explore how teachers can use everyday games to boost student engagement and reinforce essential skills across maths and literacy.

Whether it's picking up second-hand classics at thrift shops or transforming old puzzles into number challenges, we are sharing ideas that are not only fun but also adaptable for various grade levels. 

What you will learn:

• How to use popular games like Jenga, Twister, and Guess Who to teach maths and literacy
• Ideas for using Duplo and Lego blocks as customisable learning tools
• Creative twists on the ‘Gone Fishing’ game, UNO, Kerplunk, and more
• Ways to incorporate movement and collaboration into lessons
• Tips for sourcing games on a budget
• How to encourage student ownership and involve families in the process

Let’s work smarter, not harder because game-based learning doesn’t need to be complicated. Start with what you already have, and watch your students thrive through play and purpose. For more classroom inspiration and ready-to-go resources, follow @rainbowskycreations on Instagram and TikTok or visit www.rainbowskycreations.com. 

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Freebie: Australian Currency Block Game
• Multiplication Guess Who and Addition/Subtraction Guess Who templates
• Freebie: UNO Place Value Walls Game

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Feeling overwhelmed by classroom clutter? In this episode, we're joined by classroom organisation expert Jamiela, who shares her powerful journey from chaos to calm. Once an unorganised teacher herself, Jamiela now empowers educators to embrace simplicity and function-first thinking through her FAVS principles: Functionality, Accessibility, Visibility, and Simplicity.

Jamiela dives deep into resource management, the pitfalls of over-purchasing, and how to shift your mindset from "more is more" to purposeful minimalism. You'll walk away with practical, actionable tips to streamline your classroom setup, establish sustainable routines, and create a learning environment that works for you and your students.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Jamiela's transformation from cluttered to calm
• Why minimalism is a game-changer in the classroom
• The FAVS framework for organising with purpose
• Decluttering strategies using the 12-24 month rule
• Functional classroom displays that serve learning
• Balancing digital vs paper systems for efficiency
• Creating a central hub for managing classroom chaos
• Daily reset routines that work (and don’t add to your to-do list)

Action steps for teachers after listening to this episode:

1. Set up a 5-10 minute end-of-day reset routine.
2. Prioritise function over aesthetics when organising.
3. Create a centralised hub for tasks, papers, and key info.
4. Declutter items unused in the past 12-24 months.
5. Invest in long-lasting, purposeful resources.
6. Apply the FAVS principles to classroom systems.
7. Set up a simple paper flow with clear categories.

From daily reset routines to the magic of a central task hub, this episode is a must-listen for any teacher ready to reclaim their space and time. If you know a teacher that could do with an organisation reset, share this episode with them!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Explore more from Jamiela and the Organised Teacher Collective here
• Connect with Jamiela on Instagram or TikTok
• Visit www.rainbowskycreations.com for classroom organisation resources

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Feeling like you're constantly running on empty or that everything is falling on your shoulders? You're not alone, and teaching was never meant to be a solo performance.

In this episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’re sharing five empowering strategies to help reduce teacher overwhelm and protect your well-being. From curating your very own “glam squad” of resources and support to setting realistic priorities and boundaries, this conversation is packed with practical advice to help you stay energised, focused, and passionate about teaching.

Not even Beyonce, TayTay or Lady Gaga run the whole show without a team, so why should you?

We dive into real-life stories, tried-and-tested tips, and small shifts that can make a big difference in your day-to-day. Because let’s be honest, teaching isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what matters most.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

Build Your Glam Squad – Who’s on your team? We talk about using high-quality teaching tools, AI, and community support to lighten your load.

Stop performing for the To-Do List – How to ditch the endless to-do list and hone in on the top three tasks that really move the needle.

Know when to drop the mic – We’re breaking the myth that rest has to be earned. Spoiler: it doesn’t.

Set boundaries like a headliner - Protect your time so you can protect your passion. Even Beyoncé has a backstage pass list—and guess what? Not everyone gets in.

Play to your strengths - Why sharing responsibilities and leaning on your colleagues is key to staying in love with teaching.

This episode is your reminder that you're not alone and you don’t have to do it all. We’re here cheering you on every step of the way.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

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What happens when a psychologist and a seasoned teacher team up to support neurodivergent learners? Insight, experience, and heart—all rolled into one conversation. In this episode, Ashleigh sits down with Lisa and Lianne, the passionate duo behind Elevated Teachers, to explore the powerful ways educators can better support neurodiverse students—without burning out.

Together, they unpack common myths, tackle IEP challenges, and share practical strategies to help teachers create more inclusive, flexible classrooms. But don’t worry - this episode isn’t about adding more to your plate. It’s about simplifying, shifting perspectives, and leaning into what you already do well.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• What neurodiversity really means (and why it matters in every classroom)
• How to understand “spiky profiles” and play to student strengths
• Why diagnoses are guides—not rulebooks
• Practical tips for building student choice and flexibility into routines
• The truth about IEPs, and how to use them without the stress
• Ways to approach behaviour support with collaboration, not confrontation
• How teachers can lead with curiosity, compassion, and calm

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by supporting students with diverse needs or unsure where to start, this episode will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and ready to take action, one thoughtful step at a time.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Download the Freebie: 15 Strategies to Support Students and Prioritise Your Wellbeing

Connect with Lianne and Lisa:

Instagram @elevatededucators

Website elevatededucators.com.au

Email [email protected]

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In this episode we’re showing you how a deck of UNO cards can become one of your most versatile teaching tools, especially for measurement! From comparing lengths in Kindergarten to converting units in Year 4, we’re sharing fun, hands-on activities that make maths more meaningful and less worksheet-heavy.

We also take a trip down memory lane with some of our own data lesson experiences (remember those eye colour graphs?) and explore how we can create more memorable and nurturing moments in our maths classrooms today. In this episode, we cover: 

• Using UNO cards to compare, tally, and graph in early years
• Engaging measurement games for all grades
• Strategies for teaching unit conversions (litres, grams, millilitres & more)
• Creating data experiences students will actually enjoy
• Ideas for differentiation using UNO cards in measurement lessons
• FREE game templates for busy teachers (see link below)With ideas for every primary year level, including free templates and tips for adapting lessons for mixed-ability groups, this episode will leave you excited to grab your UNO deck and start measuring!

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Blog: Teach Measurement Using UNO Cards

FREE Download: UNO Measurement Conversion Game Templates

Share your own school data memories with us on Instagram: @rainbowskycreations

Ready-to-go UNO resources: 

Kindergarten

Grade 1-2

Grade 3-4 

Grade 5-6

I teach all the grades

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Today we’re joined by the fabulous Julia - an experienced classroom teacher who brings a calm, clear-eyed approach to differentiation that will leave you feeling capable, confident, and ready to make small changes with big impact.

Together we explore what differentiation really looks like in action, and spoiler alert, it doesn’t have to mean rewriting your entire lesson plan! From math warm-ups to the powerful “bump it up” wall strategy, Julia offers super practical tips for meeting students where they are, while keeping things simple and sustainable for busy teachers.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why starting small with differentiation (like warm-ups or wrap-ups) is a game-changer
• How to ditch the myth that you need 3 different versions of every activity
• Smart ways to manage differentiated math groups (and why you don’t need to be everywhere at once!)
• How the “bump it up” wall builds student ownership and writing confidence
• The power of repetitive, low-prep activities like number talks and “What Doesn’t Belong”
• Tips for using simple tweaks for instant differentiation
• How strong routines and a resilient mindset make classroom life smoother
• The ultimate reminder: Your presence matters more than perfection.

This episode is for any teacher looking to streamline their existing strategies when it comes to differentiation. It is packed with doable ideas, mindset shifts, and encouraging truths that will help you support every learner in your classroom, without burning out.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Julia on Instagram @mrschalmerscherubs

Find Julia’s resources here: www.mrschalmerscherubs.com

Find our low-prep UNO activities here.

See what a ‘Bump it up wall looks like.

Our previous episodes about Differentation: Part 1 (episode 54) and Part 2 (episode 76)

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