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Happy Teaching

Happy Teaching

The Kindergarten Connection 53 Episodes Oct 12, 2026

Happy Teaching with The Kindergarten Connection is a podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers seeking simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies. Hosted by Alex John, each bite-sized episode delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions that can be implemented immediately. The podcast aims to help teachers create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, and bring more fun into their teaching day, all in ten minutes or less.

Episodes

Episode 68: Make Sub Plans Easier
Episode 68: Make Sub Plans Easier Oct 12, 2026 589 In this episode, Alex shares practical tips for making substitute plans easier to prepare and manage. Whether you're planning for an upcoming absence or unexpectedly waking up sick, having a few things ready ahead of time can make a big difference!✨ You'll learn:• Why keeping familiar routines matters more than following every lesson exactly. • How to organize a sub tub with essential cl
Episode 67: Who’s Missing? A Circle Time Game
Episode 67: Who’s Missing? A Circle Time Game Oct 5, 2026 460 In this episode, Alex shares one of her favorite circle time games for Pre-K and Kindergarten: Who’s Missing? This playful guessing game is a fun way to build classroom community while practicing names and listening skills. You'll hear exactly how to play, ideas for incorporating clues like rhyming and beginning sounds, and tips for making sure students understand that everyone may not get a
Episode 66: Meaningful Classroom Transitions
Episode 66: Meaningful Classroom Transitions Sep 27, 2026 453 In this episode, Alex shares a fun way to make classroom transitions smoother while sneaking in a little extra learning along the way. Instead of having everyone move at once, you can use letters, shapes, numbers, and other familiar skills to gradually excuse students while reviewing what you've been learning.✨ You'll learn:Why transitions are a common time for classroom management strug
Episode 65: Rethinking Classroom Jobs
Episode 65: Rethinking Classroom Jobs Sep 20, 2026 557 In this episode, Alex shares a simpler approach to classroom jobs for Pre-K and Kindergarten. Instead of assigning and rotating a different job for every student, she uses one helper of the day, keeping classroom responsibilities meaningful for students and much easier for the teacher to manage. You'll hear how this easy system works, why it fits young learners so well, and how it can even he
Episode 64: Simple Brain Break Songs for the Classroom
Episode 64: Simple Brain Break Songs for the Classroom Sep 13, 2026 477 In this episode, Alex shares two simple songs you can use anytime your Pre-K or Kindergarten students need to get their wiggles out, refocus, or fill a few extra minutes. No special materials or planning needed—just your voice and a little movement!✨ You'll learn:When brain breaks can be helpful and when it may be time to rethink lesson lengthTwo easy songs you can use anytimeHow movement and
Episode 63: Songs for Smoother Classroom Transitions
Episode 63: Songs for Smoother Classroom Transitions Aug 30, 2026 436 In this episode, Alex builds on last week's conversation about singing in the classroom with two more simple songs to support classroom management. This time, the focus is on transitions—helping students gather calmly, get ready to listen, and move on to what's next without constant reminders.You'll hear two easy songs you can start using right away, whether you're gathering st
Episode 62: Using Songs to Teach Classroom Routines
Episode 62: Using Songs to Teach Classroom Routines Aug 24, 2026 459 In this episode, Alex shares how simple songs can make classroom routines easier to teach and more fun to practice. You don't have to be a great singer. Your students don't care! What matters is using music to help young learners remember expectations, stay engaged, and move through the day more smoothly. Plus, Alex teaches you two easy songs you can start using right away for voice leve
Episode 61: Name Games & Songs for Back to School
Episode 61: Name Games & Songs for Back to School Aug 16, 2026 473 In this episode, Alex shares some of her favorite name games, songs, and chants for Pre-K and Kindergarten. Name activities are a simple way to help students learn each other's names while building classroom community and practicing early literacy and social skills.✨ You'll learn:How name games help build classroom communityFun ways to practice rhyming, syllables, and name recognitionHow
Episode 60: Making the Most of Classroom Volunteers
Episode 60: Making the Most of Classroom Volunteers Aug 9, 2026 621 In this episode, Alex shares practical strategies for making classroom volunteers a true support instead of another thing to manage. Whether you have parent volunteers every week or only a few throughout the year, a little preparation can make their time in your classroom much more effective.✨ You'll learn:Why waiting a few weeks before inviting volunteers into the classroom can be beneficial
Episode 59: Simple Center Storage Ideas for Teachers
Episode 59: Simple Center Storage Ideas for Teachers Aug 3, 2026 705 In this episode, Alex shares simple, practical ideas for organizing and storing classroom centers when they're not in use. If you've ever wondered what to do with all those laminated pieces, recording sheets, and activity cards, this episode is packed with teacher-tested solutions.✨ You'll learn:Five simple ways to organize and store classroom centersHow to combine digital and physi
Episode 58: Building Strong Partnerships with Paraeducators
Episode 58: Building Strong Partnerships with Paraeducators Jul 13, 2026 772 In this episode, Alex shares practical ways to build a positive, productive partnership with the paraeducators in your classroom. Working alongside another adult isn't always something teachers are taught, but strong collaboration can make a huge difference for both you and your students.✨ You'll learn:Why understanding your paraeducator's role and responsibilities mattersHow to cre
Episode 57: The First Week of School: Go Slow to Go Fast
Episode 57: The First Week of School: Go Slow to Go Fast Jul 5, 2026 760 In this episode, Alex shares the mindset and strategies for a successful first week of school. Instead of rushing into academics, you'll learn why focusing on routines, independence, and classroom community sets the foundation for the rest of the year. Plus, hear why going slow in the beginning helps you move faster later on.✨ You'll learn:Why routines should be your lesson plan during t

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