Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast
The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast, hosted by Ashley Rives, offers actionable strategies and inspiration for preschool teachers. Each episode focuses on play-based, child-centered learning methods to boost confidence in the classroom. Ashley draws on over 17 years of experience as an early educator to provide practical tips and insights. The podcast aims to help teachers implement effective approaches in their preschool classrooms worldwide.
Episodes
Why Preschoolers Don't Learn Expectations By Hearing Them Once
One of the biggest classroom management mistakes isn't having expectations. It's assuming children learned them because we explained them once.In this episode, we're talking about the difference between telling and teaching. Preschoolers don't automatically know how to line up, clean up, walk in the hallway, or participate during circle time. These are skills that must be intentionally taught thro
The Preschool Framework I Use Every Year
What classroom management system do you use?It's one of the questions I hear most often from preschool teachers. The answer may surprise you:I don't rely on one classroom management system.I rely on a framework:Build It. Teach It. Reinforce It.In this episode, we're breaking down why so many classroom management strategies fall apart and what teachers can do instead to create systems that actually
I Open Centers on Day One - But I Don't Expect Independence
One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "When do you introduce centers?" Many teachers are surprised by my answer: I open centers on Day One.But there's an important difference.I don't expect children to be independent on Day One.In this episode, we're talking about the biggest mistakes teachers make when introducing centers, why preschoolers struggle during those first few weeks, and how yo
What Actually Matters Before the School Year Starts
Every summer, preschool teachers make ambitious classroom prep lists:Cut everything out.Laminate everything.Organize every bin.Create every center.But once school begins, many of those tasks suddenly feel far less important than they seemed in June.Instead of preparing endless activities, you'll learn why preparing classroom systems is what truly sets the tone for a successful school year.A classr
The Preschool Classroom Mistakes That Create Chaos Later
The teachers running the smoothest classrooms aren't usually the ones with the cutest classrooms. They're the ones who spent the first few weeks intentionally teaching children how the classroom works.In this episode, we dive into five common mistakes teachers make at the beginning of the year that often lead to behavior challenges, difficult transitions, dependence on adults, and classroom chaos
5 Ways Teachers Are Using Visual Schedules Wrong (And What to Do Instead)
You spent the time laminating the cards.You hung the visual schedule perfectly on the wall.But then?The kids barely looked at it.In this episode, let's talk about the five biggest mistakes teachers make with visual schedules and explain how to turn your schedule from a classroom decoration into one of the most powerful tools in your day.The truth is, visual schedules do not work automatically. The
What to Send Home This Summer (That Kids Will Actually Use)
The summer slide is real. But turning summer into “homework season” is not the answer.In this episode, we’re talking about a better way to support preschool learning at home through simple, play-based activities families will actually use. If you’ve ever sent home workbook packets only to wonder if they ever left the backpack, this conversation is for you...Because preschoolers learn best through
How to Make Assessments Feel Less Overwhelming (Without Skipping Them)
If assessment season makes you want to shut your laptop and disappear for a while… you’re not alone. In this episode, let me break down why traditional assessment methods feel so exhausting! But more importantly, let me give you a better way to do it.You’ll learn a simpler, more effective approach that saves time, reduces stress for your students, and gives you data you can actually use to guide y
What Kids Are Actually Learning in Dramatic Play
What if the loudest, most chaotic corner of your classroom is actually where the deepest learning is happening?In this episode, we’re rethinking dramatic play and breaking the myth that it’s “just pretending.” Because when you take a closer look, you’ll see children building language, social skills, literacy, and real-world understanding through play.If you’ve ever felt pressure to replace play wi
Small Spring Shifts, Big Classroom Energy
Spring brings a noticeable shift in energy and it can leave even the most well-run classrooms feeling a little chaotic. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a full reset to fix it.In this episode, we’re talking about how to refresh your preschool classroom in simple, manageable ways that actually work - without adding more to your plate.Because the goal isn’t to start over. It’s to work smarte
The Science of Spring: More Than Cute Crafts
What does science look like in a preschool classroom?It’s not worksheets.It’s a child running across the grass with a kite they built themselves! They built it, tested it and discovered that it works!In this episode, we’re talking about how to move beyond “cute” spring activities and into meaningful science that actually builds cognitive skills.Topics Discussed:What real science looks like in pres
From Recognition to Application: A Better Way to Teach Preschool Skills
In this episode, we’re talking about the common "recognition trap" in early childhood education and why stopping at identification can limit deeper learning. You’ll learn a simple four-stage framework you can use to guide children from basic familiarity with a concept all the way to meaningful application.Let's bring clarity and calmness back to your planning!Topics Discussed:Why recognition is th
Name Writing Routines That Build Confidence (One Child at a Time)
In this episode, we’re breaking down how to scaffold name writing in a preschool classroom where readiness levels vary widely (because they always do).Let's discuss what the true progression of name writing looks like, how to structure a routine that supports mixed abilities, and what to do when a child simply isn’t ready yet.Because name writing isn’t a race. It’s a scaffolded skill and every ch
Friendship Drama? Friendship Skills Are Learned Behaviors
In this episode, we’re breaking down why friendship struggles actually increase as the school year goes on, why that’s developmentally appropriate, and what it really looks like to teach friendship skills as learned behaviors and not just remind kids to “be nice.”Let's talk about what’s driving mid-year social conflict and practical, doable strategies you can start using right away.Topics Discusse
Arctic Animals, Hibernation & Hands-On Winter Centers
January is long and your kids have way too much energy. In this episode, let's talk winter themes like arctic animals and hibernation.When you use play-based, intentional centers, winter becomes a time for deep engagement, meaningful learning, and calmer classrooms.Topics Discussed:Why winter themes work so well in JanuaryThe problem with relying only on “cute crafts”How to turn arctic animals and
Circle Time Check-In: What's Working Mid-Year
It feels like the perfect time for a little circle time check-in. In this episode, I’m sharing what’s been working well, what I’ve adjusted along the way, and the incredible growth I’ve seen in my students since August.If you’re a teacher looking to make Circle Time more engaging, flexible, and responsive to your students’ needs, this episode will give you practical ideas and reassurance that evol
Going Beyond Story Time with Interactive Read-Alouds
In this episode, we’re talking about how to turn story time into an interactive literacy experience without adding more to your prep list. I’m sharing simple ways to dig deeper into books, what happens when you re-read with purpose, and how I use Interactive Read-Aloud units to keep everything organized and joyful.Topics Discussed:Why read-alouds are such an essential literacy tool in preschoolWha
Inviting Preschoolers to Write - Without Pressure
In this episode, we are diving into Writing Invitations! We want children to be excited about writing, which means we need a playful, child-led approach without pressure, prompts, or frustration. Learn what Writing Invitations are, why they work, and how to use them to make your writing center a place kids actually want to visit.Topics Discussed:What Writing Invitations are (and what they aren't)H
The Real Work Behind Name Writing
Teaching preschoolers to write their names is about so much more than putting letters on paper. In this episode, we’re unpacking what really comes before name writing: the recognition, the fine motor readiness and the meaningful play that make writing feel exciting instead of frustrating.Listen in as I give you practical strategies to support your students at every stage - from recognizing their n
Handwriting vs. Writing: Why They're Not the Same
In this episode, we’re unpacking a topic that’s often misunderstood in early childhood education: the difference between handwriting and writing.While these terms are often used interchangeably, they involve very different skills and understanding that difference can change the way you support your preschoolers. Topics Discussed:What handwriting and writingreallymeanWhy mixing them up leads to unr
Why Classroom Jobs Aren't Just 'Cute' - They're Crucial
In this episode, we’re diving into why class jobs are more than just 'cute helpers', how they support your students in meaningful ways, and how to make them manageable for you. Class jobs may seem like a small detail, but they can completely transform your classroom culture.Whether you’ve tried class jobs before (and dropped them) or you’re just getting started, this episode will help you simplify
How I Keep Circle Time Engaging (Without Losing My Mind)
Ever looked out at your circle time rug and seen blank stares and wiggly bodies? You’re not alone. Circle time burnout is real (for both kids and teachers). But the good news? A few small changes can make a big impact (without hours of prep).In this episode, I’m sharing simple, sanity-saving strategies that keep kids engaged and make circle time something everyone looks forward to.Topi
Circle Time Isn't Broken (You Just Need a Better Reason)
In this episode, we’re digging into the real reasons circle time sometimes flops—and why it still matters when done with purpose. If you've ever felt pressure to skip it or questioned its value in a busy preschool day, this one’s for you.Topics Discussed:Why critics of circle time aren't entirely wrongHow to reframe circle time as a community builderPractical ways to make your circle time shorter,
The First Few Weeks of Circle Time: What to Do (and What to Skip)
Day one of preschool and circle time feels like total chaos? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong.In this episode, we’re breaking down what circle time really looks like during those first few weeks—and how to keep it simple, predictable, and stress-free (yes, even when someone’s licking a shoe)! Topics Discussed:Why less is more when you’re just starting outA realistic breakdown of the
The First Day of Preschool: What to Prep (and What to Forget)
Feeling overwhelmed with all the Pinterest-perfect classroom ideas? Today we’re cutting through the clutter and talking about the only five things you really need to prep before the first day of preschool. No fancy bulletin boards, no year-long plans—just the simple, effective tools that help your classroom run smoother from Day One. Tune in! Topics Discussed:Why procedure visuals are your best Da
Why Transitions Are the Hidden Troublemakers of the Preschool Day
In today's episode we’re talking about the most overlooked, chaos-causing part of the preschool day: transitions. Those sneaky little in-betweens that can make or break your whole routine. If transitions feel like a daily disaster, I’ve got ideas to help you bring back the calm! Tune in!Topics Discussed:Why transitions are so tricky.Signs your transitions might be causing stress.What smooth transi
Big Update Alert! Your Two & Three Year Old Curriculum Just Got a Whole Lot Better
In today’s episode, we’re taking a deep dive into the updates that have been made to the Two & Three Year Old Curriculum! What if lesson planning did not have to be complicated? What if everything was done for you so that you could concentrate on the 100's of other things preschool teachers have going on? You want to deliver developmentally appropriate, meaningful, and manageable lessons every
Building a Preschool Schedule That Works
In today’s episode, we’re diving into how to build a preschool schedule that works for you—not against you. Because a great schedule isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the secret sauce that makes your day smoother, your students calmer, and your teaching time way more effective. Tune in!Topics Discussed:Why your daily schedule matters.4 big schedule mistakes and how to avoid them.How to build a schedu
The Importance of Rotating Centers for Maximum Learning
Rotating play centers means more engagement, deeper learning and better behavior! By rotating the toys and materials in our play centers we can boost engagement and encourage purposeful play. If you aren't sure when or how to rotate centers...tune In! I'm sharing all of my tips and tricks!Topics Discussed:Why rotating centers is important.How often to rotate centers.Tips for easy rotation.Related
Using Play Centers to Teach Executive Functioning Skills
Executive functioning is critical for learning. In this episode, I will teach how centers naturally build these skills and you how to boost those skills without adding a single thing to your to-do list. Tune In!Topics Discussed:What executive functioning is.How centers support executive functioning.Simple ways to boost executive functioning in centers.Related Resources:Guide to Preschool CentersCo
Transform Your Light Table All Year Long with Seasonal Mats!
With seasonal light table mats, you can transform your classroom into a space of wonder and exploration throughout the year. Keep your learners engaged, skills sharp, and imaginations soaring. Ready to jumpstart your sensory journey? Tune In!Topics Discussed:What are light table mats and how do they work?The power of using seasonal themes and how to incorporate them into your light table.Seasonal
Why 'Just Go Play' Doesn't Work: Explicitly Teaching Center Skills
You have your centers all set. Now, its time to 'go play'! Have you ever wondered why your centers are chaotic instead of creative? In this episode, we will uncover the secrets to teaching purposeful play and help transform your preschool center time into moments of joyful learning!Topics Discussed:Understanding the Importance of Teaching Center SkillsStep-By-Step Guide to Teaching Center SkillsPr
Stop! Don't Hand That Preschooler a Pencil...Yet!
Have you ever handed a pencil to an eager preschooler only to see them struggle awkwardly? In episode 121, discover why the key to confident writing starts with building fine motor skills, not rushing to the pencil.Topics Discussed:The Importance of Fine Motor Skills in Early Childhood DevelopmentThe Challenges of Early WritingThe Fine Motor First ApproachRelated Resources:Fine Motor Build-a-Skill
5 Surprising Benefits of Preschool Assessments
Ever thought preschool assessments were just tedious paperwork? Think again! Discover the surprising benefits that can transform your classroom and make a lasting impact on your students' growth. Today, we're diving into 5 reasons why assessments might just be your new best friend!Topics Discussed:What is the purpose of preschool assessments5 Benefits of preschool assessmentsPlus, the FREE Assessm
Biggest Small Group Mistakes (And How to Fix Them!)
Small group time shouldn't feel stressful! In fact, with a clear plan in place it can be extremely effective. Small groups build confidence, increase engagement, and can help us with targeted instruction for our students. But small group time only works if it's done right! In this episode, let's talk about the most common small group mistakes and how we can fix them! Topics Discussed:Why small gro
What is Bookmaking? How to use it to Encourage Preschool Writing
Bookmaking is a great way to encourage writing in your preschool classroom! Providing blank books and encouraging your students to fill them with their stories, thoughts, and feelings allows them to expand their storytelling and gives purpose to their marks and drawing. Tune in to episode 118 to hear why bookmaking is important, what emergent writing looks like and how and where we can add bookmak
Teaching Young Children How Reading Works
Teaching young children how reading works is a great way to boost confidence and lay the foundation for when it is time for them to actually begin reading! They are aware that they don't yet know how to read and sometimes this can cause frustration. By using 'literary touchpoints' we can help encourage them and a future love of reading!Topics Discussed:Why it is important to teach young children h
How to Build a Sensory Bin for Preschoolers
In this episode, we are talking about sensory bins! Sensory bins are an essential part of any preschool classroom. They give our preschoolers a chance to use their senses to explore and learn. Changing out the classroom sensory bin can help create fresh new ideas and opportunities for discovery! If you need some tips, tricks, and ideas on how to make sensory bins both fun and educational ...tune i
Shared Reading Meets Winter Fun
In this episode, we’re diving into shared reading—what it is, why it’s so powerful for preschoolers, and how you can use pocket charts to make your shared reading sessions engaging and effective. Plus, learn how our Winter Shared Reading Pocket Chart Activities can help you combine literacy learning with seasonal fun.Tune in!Topics Discussed:What is shared reading? Why is it important?3 reasons wh
Tips for Incorporating Loose Parts in Preschool Play
In this episode, I'll explain why and how I use loose parts to encourage open-ended imaginative play in our block center. With a variety of loose parts, an organized and inviting setup, and a balance between structure and freedom, your block center can become a space where imagination and creativity thrive!Tune in!Topics Discussed:What is Open-Ended Play?5 Strategies for Setting Up a Block Center
Teaching Missing Skills: How 'If-Instead' Thinking Can Transform Your Preschool Classroom
If managing challenging behaviors has ever left you feeling frustrated or stuck in a cycle of reminders, time-outs, or power struggles, then this episode is for you! We’re going to talk about how 'If-Instead' thinking helps you look deeper into behaviors, avoid conflict, and focus on teaching the social-emotional skills our preschoolers so desperately need.Tune in!Topics Discussed:What is If Inste
Using Assessment Data to Plan Lessons
Assessment isn't just about ticking boxes or assigning grades. By analyzing assessment results, teachers can tailor their instruction to meet the specific needs of the children that are in their class right now.Many times teachers take time to complete assessments and document observations and then the process stops there. Deciding HOW to use the results of the assessment to create opportunities f
Preschool Calendar and Why We Still Use It
Are you a preschool teacher that still does daily calendar at circle time?It seems like the newest trend in early education is to say ‘so long’ to calendars in the classroom. The traditional calendar is either being replaced by a linear calendar or no calendar at all. But why?We know that young children don’t quite understand the concept of time in days, months and years. We know this to be true b
What is Subitizing and How Can We Teach It?
Subitizing is the ability to quickly identify the numbers in a set without counting. By developing subitizing skills early on, children build a strong foundation for more complex math concepts. How do we practice it in our classroom though? I've got you covered!Stay tuned!Topics Discussed:Two types of subitizingSubitizing cards and how to use themOther ways to practice subitizing in your classroom
Our Favorite December Activities
It's the most wonderful time of the year!! It's also a busy and sometimes difficult time of year for teachers! The holiday excitement can definitely affect behaviors in our students. I've found that keeping our little learners engaged is the best way to handle all of that excess holiday energy!If you need ideas for December activities, let me share some of my favorites!Stay tuned!Topics Discussed:
Our Favorite December Activities
It's the most wonderful time of the year!! It's also a busy and sometimes difficult time of year for teachers! The holiday excitement can definitely affect behaviors in our students. I've found that keeping our little learners engaged is the best way to handle all of that excess holiday energy!If you need ideas for December activities, let me share some of my favorites!Stay tuned!Topics Discussed:
Using Fine Motor Boxes in Preschool
While we all know fine motor skills are important, but do your little learners have enough opportunities to practice them? I knew during play that most all of my centers have fine motor practice available. But, I also found that some of my students weren't using the fine motor activities that were incorporated into the centers.Time to "think outside the box"! Actually, time to think inside of the
5 Reasons Why Assigning Centers Can Backfire
The debate over assigning centers vs. allowing free choice is one that has long raged in the early childhood field. In our minds assigning centers makes sense - if children go to each center, they are getting everything we want them to out of center time... right? Maybe not. In this episode, let's talk about 5 specific reasons why assigning centers can backfire!Tune in!Topics Discussed:5 reasons y
Teaching Conflict Resolution in Preschool
We've all heard those words - "I HAD THAT FIRST!"Conflicts in a preschool classroom are common. Whenever we put children together who are still learning appropriate social skills and who haven't mastered conflict resolution yet, it's going to happen!These moments of conflict are the perfect opportunity for us to step in and coach our students. There is so much we can teach students in the moment!I
How to use Writing Invitations in Preschool
Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to encourage your preschoolers to write? Sometimes our little learners just need a fun idea to get their imaginations going!Writing invitations can be a fantastic tool to spark creativity, build excitement, and foster a love of writing.Tune in to find out what a writing invitation is and how to use them in your classroom!Topics Discussed:What are writing
How to use Games to Teach Preschool Math Skills
As a preschool teacher, you know the importance of making learning fun and engaging!One way that I LOVE to do this is by adding games into our classroom! Especially, math games!Games can help children develop essential math skills in a playful and interactive way.Let me give you the what, where, and how when it comes to using math games in Episode 104! Tune in!Topics Discussed:The benefits of usin
Bringing Literacy Into Your Fall Unit
Have you tried bringing a Literacy Unit into your Fall Thematic Unit?It’s what I have been doing for the past several years and I love it!Many times when we have a thematic unit around fall or autumn we focus on reading themed books. The books might revolve around apples, pumpkins, leaves, and fall in general.We also bring that thematic flair to the art center or we bring autumn into our sen
Preschool Cutting Tips
Let’s get cutting! Cutting skills and preschool go hand in hand. Many times it is the first time that children have been allowed to use scissors.So, it’s important that we understand the continuum in which children’s cutting skills develop. To make it a little easier to remember, I created a printable Preschool Cutting Continuum graphic that you can grab at the link below!Tune in to le
Circle Time - The Do's and Don'ts
Let’s talk about circle time, shall we? Do you love it? Or do you loathe it? Some of us have mixed feelings about circle time. And depending on how you structure yours, it can lead to a wonderful group experience or a chaotic and frustrating mess.Today, let’s go into some do’s and don’ts of circle time!Topics Discussed:Consistency in circle timeHow and when to give choices during circle timeAdding
Top 5 Games for Circle Time
Whole group games work SOOO incredibly well at circle time. I use them on the daily and these games allow me to work with students as a group to practice and review academic skills – but in a fun way!In this episode, I want to share with you 5 of my favorite types of circle time games that you can play and adapt for any theme or season! Tune in!Topics Discussed:5 Circle Time Games descr
Inside My Circle Time Cart
Got a Circle Time Cart? This is one idea for circle time that you are going to want to hear about!When you take a minute to stop and think of all the things that you use or could use during circle time, a long list might start forming. Calendar pieces, pointers, markers, well-wishing wands, music, a pocket chart…. But, do you make sure that all these items are readily available at your
Things to Consider When Setting Up Circle Time
Circle time is a beloved and essential part of the preschool classroom, providing a space for children to connect with their peers, learn new things, and develop important social and emotional skills. To create a successful and engaging circle time experience, it's crucial to carefully consider the physical environment. This episode lays out the key features I think about when setting up
How Long to Schedule Centers
Center time is a major staple of a preschool program. And if you are running a play-based classroom like I am… free-play centers is the key ingredient! But have you ever wondered…. how long should I schedule time in centers? Tune in and I will walk you through what the recommendations are for scheduling center time.Topics Discussed:ECERS (Early Childhood Environmental Education Rating System) reco
Important Considerations to Take When Setting Up Your Preschool Classroom
Setting up a preschool classroom is both exciting and daunting. This is the space where new little young minds will explore, learn, and grow. As a play-based classroom, my classroom truly is the second teacher. But, I truly believe we can’t just ‘wing it’. There are some important factors to take into consideration when setting up your preschool classroom – and I’m sharing them all here with you!
Why Planning Classroom Management Before Day 1 Makes all the Difference
The first day of preschool is a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and new faces. As preschool teachers, we know the importance of creating a warm and welcoming environment from the start. And we also know how a little strategic planning can go a long way in setting the stage for a smooth and successful year. In this episode, we’re talking about why investing time in planning classroom management be
Hard Truths about Behavior Management in the Preschool Classroom
Preschool teachers often find themselves navigating many tiny humans with big emotions. While the rewards of being a preschool teacher are huge, it doesn't come without challenges! Behavior management in the preschool classroom is complex and so much of it is our own mindset. Let's talk about the hard truths of behavior management! Topics Discussed:6 hard truths about behavior management in the pr
The Chill Spot
No preschool classroom is immune to it… little learners with BIG emotions. Some years are different from others, but every school year we will have children in our class that need help processing big emotions. And this year was the year I finally created something that I feel like really helps…. It’s called The Chill Spot and I want to share it because I’m so excited about the progress I am seeing
Overview of my Plan to Implement Literacy
We all know the importance of fostering a strong literacy foundation in our little learners. But with so much to juggle, ensuring we're hitting all those crucial emergent literacy goals can feel overwhelming. I do understand why many teachers still grasp to a step-by-step plan. It makes sense to our brains and makes us feel confident that we are covering the skills we should be (even if it's done
Ways to Teach Emergent Literacy Skills
Isn't it amazing to see the way our little learners soak up everything around them? They're like tiny sponges, eager to explore and learn new things.When it comes to early literacy, our little sponges need the right opportunities to help them learn foundational literacy skills. Let's face it, traditional flashcards and worksheets can feel a bit…well, dry... and honestly... those methods aren't mea
Early Literacy Is More Than Letter Learning
For whatever reason, parents seem to think if their preschooler can't name all the alphabet letters by the end of preschool, then the year was a loss. Or maybe you've even had an administrator that sees letter recognition as the key early learning goals for literacy!It can be frustrating because, as preschool teachers, we know that early literacy is so much more than just memorizing letters!This p
Prep Centers Now, Save Sanity Later
We all know the importance of fresh, engaging center materials to spark curiosity and learning in our preschoolers. But let's be real, sometimes the thought of prepping and switching out those materials feels like a whole other mountain to climb.We've all been there. You spend all this time crafting amazing experiences, but then changing things out feels like a chaotic avalanche. Fear not, my frie
When Center Time Gets Overwhelming
Do you want to keep your preschool center time fresh and engaging, but get overwhelmed at the thought of actually doing it? Changing out centers for center time is some serious work! But, what you need is a plan! In this episode, let me walk you through my step-by-step process for changing out your centers! Tune in!Topics Discussed:The problem- changing out centers can be overwhelming and tim
The Un-popular Play Centers
You know the centers in your classroom that your preschoolers rarely go to? The centers that when they do get students, those students rarely stay for too long? I call those the "un-popular" centers. I've found a way to liven up those centers! Tune in!Topics Discussed:Un-popular centers - writing, math, science, literacyHow to make the un-popular centers fun and appealingResources Mentioned:Presch
5 Strategies for Keeping Preschoolers Engaged in Centers
We all know the magic of center time: a room buzzing with creativity, exploration, and little minds learning through play. But let's be honest, sometimes center time can feel more like...chaos erupting.Keeping children engaged can be challenging. Today I want to share with you 5 strategies that have helped guide me to making my free play centers more enjoyable for all!Topics Discussed:Change it up
End of the Year Reflection
The end of the school year is definitely bittersweet. It's exciting for our current students to be headed to new adventures and hard to let go of the littles we have had in our classrooms all year! One thing I do at the end of each year is spend some time reflecting. What worked in my classroom and what do I want to change for that new group of students coming in! Topics Discussed:The importance o
Parent Teacher Conference Tips for Early Educators
While conferences are a great time to connect with parents, celebrate student achievements and also provide a space to express concerns - it's not easy. Most of us are extremely comfortable talking to young children, but talking to parents can feel like a totally different experience! In this episode of the Lovely Preschool Teachers podcast, you will get tips on how to make conferences go more smo
Analyzing Preschool Assessment Data
I’ve done a lot of required assessments in my day. And when I think back, I can confirm that I didn’t actually use the results from the assessments. I just got the assessment done and called it a day.But, the purpose of assessing is to check progress and if there is a discrepancy, to use that data to create lessons and learning opportunities to help teach that missing skill.Tune in to this episode
Our New Assessment Approach in Preschool
We all know the importance of preschool assessment – it helps us understand our little learners and tailor our teaching to their needs. But traditional assessment periods can sometimes feel overwhelming. Testing all of the skills multiple times per year is exhausting and unnecessary! What if you were only focusing on specific skills to assess for each testing period? You'd be doing LESS assessing.
Keep Circle Time Lively
Circle time is a great way to review skills and grow class community! However, what do you do when circle time feels like more of a hassle than it's worth? Is it hard to keep the students engaged? Is your circle time becoming boring? In this episode I will help you bring joy into your circle time!Topics Discussed:Why circle time might need a refreshWays to keep circle time livelyResources Mentione
Quick & Easy Circle Time Games
Raise your hand if you struggle to ‘fit it all in’.Relying on small group time to fit in all the things that preschoolers need to know just wasn’t cutting it.The problem is… since small group time often occurs during free play, there are many distractions. Not only do some children not want to leave their play to come to the small group table, teachers are often needed for conflict resolution.But,
Keeping Our Year Simple
As Play-Based Preschool Teachers, we often find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities and trying to create engaging and play-filled experiences for our little learners. However, while trying to provide the best education possible, we can end up getting overwhelmed and stretched too thin. Topics Discussed:Reconsidering classroom partiesSimplifying student giftsRethinking seasonal decorElimin
Why We Need to Stop Telling Preschoolers to Share
Sharing. It's a common topic amongst those who teach young children. Why are preschoolers expected to share? What impacts might forcing young children to share have? What should we do instead. This episode covers it all!Topics Discussed:The reasons preschoolers are told to shareThe negative impact it can haveWhat we should teach insteadHow to help children solve "sharing issues"Connect with Ashley
Teaching Peer to Peer Communication
Preschool is often the first time that young children are leaving their home environment and trying out a classroom setting. This includes the need for peer-to-peer communication. It can be hard for children who have not had many opportunities to practice these types of interactions before. As educators, it is our job to help them navigate these peer relationships. Topics Discussed:Skills children
Survey of the Day - Preschool Graphing
Question of the Day, Daily Question, Preschool Graphing and Survey of the Day has long been a staple in early childhood classrooms… for good reason.With children being quite ego-centric (a nice way of saying, they think it’s all about them), students learn new things more easily when they are at the center of it.So, when we ask each child a question, gather everyone in the classes’ responses and a
How to Use Environmental Print in the Preschool Classroom
As preschool teachers we are constantly looking for ways to incorporate literacy in our classrooms to support our young learners. One powerful tool that surrounds us every day is environmental print. This type of print refers to print that children see around them in their day to day lives, such as signs, logos, labels and symbols. Environmental print can play an important role in literacy d
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