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Happy Teaching

Happy Teaching

The Kindergarten Connection 53 Episodes Sep 13, 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 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
Episode 56: Parent Communication Made Easier
Episode 56: Parent Communication Made Easier Jun 28, 2026 767 In this episode, Alex shares practical strategies for making parent communication simpler and less stressful. You'll hear easy ways to keep families informed, build trust, and maintain healthy boundaries throughout the school year.✨ You'll learn:Simple ways to communicate consistently without adding more workWhy newsletters and classroom apps can strengthen family relationshipsWhen to ch
Episode 55: Using Book Boxes to Build Independence
Episode 55: Using Book Boxes to Build Independence Jun 21, 2026 653 In this episode, Alex shares one of her favorite tools for building independence in the classroom: book boxes. Book boxes can do much more than hold books. They can help students manage materials independently, support small group routines, encourage a love of reading, and make it easier for children to use the entire classroom space.✨ You'll learn:How book boxes support independence and clas
Episode 54: What If I'm Not Allowed to Play
Episode 54: What If I'm Not Allowed to Play Jun 14, 2026 599 In this episode, Alex tackles one of the most common questions she hears from teachers: What if I'm not allowed to play? If you love the idea of playful learning but work in a school with strict pacing guides, scripted curriculum, or little room for centers and exploration, this episode is for you. You'll hear strategies for working within the system while still honoring what young child
Episode 53: Why Play Is Never "Just Playing"
Episode 53: Why Play Is Never "Just Playing" Jun 7, 2026 595 In this episode, Alex dives into an important early childhood topic: the difference between free play and purposeful (or guided) play. Alex explains what each one looks like, how they support children's growth, and why play is never "just playing." You'll also hear why classroom environment and presentation play such an important role in engagement, independence, and meaningful

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