Beginning Teacher Talk: A Podcast for New Elementary Teachers
Beginning Teacher Talk is a weekly podcast hosted by Dr. Lori Friesen, designed to support new elementary teachers. The show covers classroom management techniques, organizational strategies, and ways to motivate students. It also addresses working with colleagues, seasonal teaching tips, and stress reduction. The podcast aims to help beginning teachers thrive and avoid overwhelm in their early years.
Episodes
406. If Last Year Was the Hardest Year of Your Teaching Life, Listen to This
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen shares an encouraging message for every teacher who ended the last school year feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or questioning whether they were cut out for teaching. Through three powerful mindset shifts, she explains how a growth mindset for teachers can transform the way we view classroom management challenges, difficult seasons, and
405. Before You Quit Teaching, Listen to This: With Middle School Teacher Amber Duane
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen sits down with middle school teacher Amber Duane to share how she went from nearly leaving teaching after her first year to feeling confident and excited about heading back to school. Amber opens up about the classroom management struggles she faced as a beginning teacher, the mindset shifts that changed everything, and the practical stra
404. Specials Teachers: Why Classroom Management Feels So Different (And Why Most Advice Doesn't Work)
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori speaks directly to art, music, PE, library, STEM, and other specials teachers who often feel overlooked when it comes to classroom management advice. She explains why classroom management for specials teachers is fundamentally different from homeroom teaching and shares simple strategies to reduce behavior challenges through stronger transitions,
403. Teaching Today's Kids with 22-Year Veteran Jodie Culpepper
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori sits down with veteran teacher Jodie Culpepper, who shares how years of classroom management challenges, student behavior concerns, and overwhelming stress nearly led her to resign after 22 years in education. Jodie opens up about what helped her regain confidence, find hope again, and rediscover the joy of teaching through stronger classroom rou
402. Adding Elements of Surprise to Engage Your Students with 4th Grade Teacher Amanda Muri
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori sits down with fourth-grade teacher Amanda Muri to talk about how small elements of surprise can create big shifts in classroom management. Amanda shares her journey from feeling confident at the start of the school year to struggling with student engagement after winter break, and how a simple podcast episode helped her rediscover the joy, conne
401. How Small Changes Lead to Big Results in Pre-K Classroom Management With Special Guest Lindsay Parsons
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori sits down with pre-K and kindergarten teacher Lindsay Parsons to talk about what classroom management really looks like with today's students. Lindsay shares how simple shifts completely changed the energy in her classroom and helped her feel hopeful again after struggling with student behavior, social-emotional skill gaps, and teacher overwhelm.
400. 5 Reasons Your Classroom Felt So Much Harder Than It Needed to Be
In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen breaks down the five hidden classroom patterns that quietly drain teachers day after day. If you've ever felt exhausted by constant reminders, difficult transitions, student behavior interruptions, or feeling like you're always playing catch-up, this episode will help you understand why classroom management can feel so overwhelming and wh
399. Why Next Year Will Feel Exactly the Same (Unless You Do This First)
What if next year doesn't feel easier… not because of your students, but because nothing actually changed? In this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen shares a powerful mindset shift that can completely transform your classroom management and systems before the new school year even begins. If you're hoping for a fresh start, this episode will show you how to actually create one. Wh
398. What to Write Down Before You Leave Your Classroom for Summer
Before you pack up your classroom for summer, there's one simple step that can make next year dramatically easier. In this episode, Dr. Lori Friesen shares a powerful Teacher Debrief Framework to help you reflect with purpose, capture what truly worked, and turn this year's experiences into stronger classroom systems for next year. What You'll Learn: How to identify the classroom routines that c
397. How to Pack Up Your Classroom for the Summer (So Next Year Feels 10x Easier)
As spring fever sets in and the school year winds down, it's tempting to rush through classroom pack-up just to be done. But in this episode of Beginning Teacher Talk, Dr. Lori Friesen shares a powerful shift in thinking that can transform how you end the year so next year feels dramatically easier. Learn how a simple, system-based approach to packing up your classroom can reduce overwhelm, streng
396. 10 Things I Wish I Had Known During My First Year of Teaching
If you've ever felt like your classroom success depends on having the perfect lesson, this episode may shift everything for you. In this heartfelt and practical episode, Dr. Lori Friesen shares 10 powerful lessons she wishes she had known in her first year, revealing how strong classroom systems and routines are the true foundation of effective classroom management. What You'll Learn: In this epis
395. The 5 Spring Systems to Tighten (To Make Next Year Easier)
If your classroom suddenly feels noisier, slower, or harder to manage this spring, you're not imagining it, and you're not doing anything wrong. In this episode, Dr. Lori Friesen shares exactly why spring behavior shifts happen and walks you through five simple classroom systems you can tighten right now to restore calm and focus. You'll also get a practical 3-day reset plan to help you finish the
394. Why May is the Most Important Month of the Year for Teachers
As the school year winds down, many teachers feel like they're just trying to make it to summer. But what if May is actually the most powerful month for improving your teaching? In this episode, Dr. Lori Friesen explains why this final stretch of the year is the perfect time for reflection, and how capturing what worked and what didn't can make next year dramatically easier. You'll learn a simple
392. Lawnmower Parents Who Say, "My Child Is the Victim"
Many students struggle with accountability, empathy, and boundaries due to "lawnmower parenting," where obstacles are removed before they can learn independence. In this episode, I share a five-step framework to navigate these behaviors with calm, clear strategies that protect your classroom and your nervous system. You'll learn how to hold boundaries, teach students to repair harm, reinforce cons
391. 10 Outdoor Classroom Management Strategies to Channel Spring Energy (Without Losing Control)
What if the most powerful academic shift you could make during your day wasn't a new curriculum, but a change of scenery? Stepping outside softens energy, sparks curiosity, and helps even restless students regulate, but many teachers worry about losing control. In this episode, I share how taking learning outdoors doesn't mean sacrificing structure. With clear expectations, strong boundaries, and
390. When Inclusion Isn't Working — And How Teachers Can Survive a Broken System Without Burning Out
Every day, teachers walk into buildings shaped by policies they didn't choose. They're asked to function while understaffed, under-resourced, and held to expectations that often feel impossible to meet. Today's episode is raw, real, and an honest conversation about what teachers are actually experiencing in their classrooms. Because in reality, most teachers are in survival mode. So in this episod
389. Novelty Without Burnout (So You're Not Entertaining All Day)
What if the secret to student engagement wasn't new curriculum, more resources, updated materials, or the teacher entertaining at the front of the room all day, but a sprinkle of surprise? A predictable classroom may feel safe, but a classroom infused with purposeful novelty feels electric. In this episode, I'm sharing how you can implement novelty in your classroom in a way that supports you rath
388. How to Build Curiosity Into Lessons (Even the Boring Ones)
Instead of treating engagement as something you're constantly trying to manage, think of it as something you're trying to solve, and curiosity is the solution. In this episode, you'll learn simple strategies for building curiosity into your lessons that activate your students' brains and transform the way they engage during instruction. Plus, you'll gain perspective on how curiosity positively imp
387. Low-Prep Ways to Add Surprise to Your Elementary Classroom Without Losing Control
You can have strong routines and clear expectations and still feel like your classroom energy has gone flat. In this episode, I share how small, intentional moments of surprise (woven into your existing routines!) can spark curiosity, boost engagement, and make classroom management easier, instead of harder. You'll learn practical ways to add mystery and novelty without losing control or overhauli
386. Why Mystery Works (And Why Kids Are So Bored Right Now)
There's something powerful about not giving students the whole picture right away. The moment you lower your voice, cover part of the board, or hint that something exciting is coming, heads lift and curiosity sparks. Small doses of mystery tap into a child's natural drive to wonder, question, and discover...and when curiosity is activated, engagement follows. In today's episode, I explore how stra
385. How to Handle Challenging Behaviors Without Burning Out
When your nervous system never gets a chance to reset, stress becomes your baseline, patience runs thin, and burnout starts to feel inevitable. Learning how to calm your nervous system isn't self-care fluff; it's a foundational skill for protecting your energy, effectiveness, and longevity in the classroom. In today's episode, I'm sharing why fatigue may be at an all-time high and strategies to su
384. When Half Your Class Seems "Checked Out" — Motivation Strategies That Actually Work
For many teachers, student motivation seems to disappear after winter break. Energy is low, and students who were once eager are suddenly dragging their feet and checking out. But January doesn't have to be a slump. With the right reset, it can become the moment you reignite connection, rebuild momentum, and help students rediscover their spark for learning. In today's episode, I'm sharing simple,
383. The January Classroom Refresh: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference
If you're anything like me, walking back into your classroom in January after a much-needed break suddenly makes you notice everything. The colors feel too loud, the table you keep tripping over is still there, and the mountain of papers on top of your filing cabinet seems to have multiplied. When the energy and space feel off, it's usually a sign that it's time for a few intentional changes. In t
382. What to Do When Kids Just Aren't Turning in Their Work
Even after investing time in designing thoughtful assignments, creating clear rubrics, and building in opportunities for creativity and student choice, the number of missing assignments can still keep climbing. It's frustrating, and it leaves you wondering: is this a motivation issue, an organizational problem, or something deeper? In today's episode, I'm sharing simple strategies you can implemen
381. Today's Apathetic Kids: What to Do When Kids Just Don't Care
You know the look: the blank stare, the shrugged shoulders, the quiet "I don't care" that shows up no matter how engaging the lesson or activity is. When students feel apathetic, it can be one of the most discouraging challenges in the elementary classroom. But apathy isn't a lack of ability; it's a disconnect. In today's episode, I take a deeper look at why this is happening and share practical,
380. Documentation: What Every Teacher Needs to Know
There's a moment every elementary teacher experiences - the one where a behavior repeats, a parent asks a question, or an administrator says, "Can you tell me when this started?". Suddenly, you're replaying weeks of memories in your head, wishing you had written it down. Documentation may not feel like teaching, but it's one of the most powerful tools you have to protect your time, your students,
379. Helping Kids Build Executive Functioning Skills in Your Elementary Classroom
If you've ever watched a student stare at a messy desk, forget a direction you gave 10 seconds ago, or melt down at the sight of a multi-step task, you're witnessing something bigger than "behavior" - you're seeing developing executive functioning skills in action. The good news? These skills can be taught, strengthened, and practiced every single day in the elementary classroom. In this episode,
378. Making After Recess & Lunch Transitions Calm, Fun, and Focused
There's a certain chaos that walks back into your classroom after recess or lunch with the buzzing energy, side conversations, and constant movement in students' seats. But what if those notoriously tricky transitions could become some of the calmest, most focused moments of your day? With the right strategies, those post-playtime minutes can shift from stressful to smooth...and even a little fun.
377. When Admin Promised Support - But You're on Your Own
The beginning of the year is always full of promise and hope for a successful, smooth school year - and that same optimism often extends to the support we expect from our administration. But when the reality sets in that you're suddenly navigating everything on your own, the question becomes: What now? In today's episode, I'm sharing strategic steps you can take to regain your power, protect your
376. When Students Hijack Your Classroom: How to Stay in Control & Still Teach Everyone Else
When a handful of students seem determined to derail your lesson plans, it can feel like your classroom is running you instead of the other way around. But the most successful teachers know how to redirect chaos into cooperation by understanding what's driving the disruption and transforming it into engagement. Doing so not only protects the learning environment for all students but also turns dis
375. Should I Handle This Myself or Call in Backup? Knowing When It's Time to Involve Admin
Teachers naturally want to manage everything that happens in their classrooms and handle student behaviors independently. But when the tension between wanting to do it all yourself and knowing you've reached your limit starts to spill over, you've reached that pivotal moment every teacher faces, when you wonder, "Is this something I handle, or is it time to bring in admin?" In today's episode, I'm
374. Gratitude that Sticks: Fresh & Inspiring Ways to Teach Thankfulness This Fall
Imagine walking into a classroom where students greet each other with smiles, celebrate one another's efforts, and notice the small things that make each day special. That's the power of gratitude - it transforms the classroom atmosphere from ordinary to uplifting. In today's episode, I'm sharing seven fresh, practical, and engaging ways to weave gratitude into your classroom, and why it matters s
373. Needy Kids? How to Teach Kids to Be More Independent
Some students seem to need your help every few minutes, whether it's finding a pencil, getting assistance with an assignment, or asking what to do next. While their constant need for reassurance can feel overwhelming, these moments are golden opportunities to teach independence. In today's episode, I'm exploring why needy kids are showing up more often in classrooms, what research tells us about s
372. Staggered Starts, After Recess & Lunch Transition Ideas
Mornings and transitions can be tricky moments for teachers, but they don't have to stay that way. By establishing clear routines and teaching students exactly how your classroom runs, you create a calm, structured, and predictable environment that leads to more engagement and productivity. In today's episode, I'm sharing several practical, low-prep strategies to help you keep your mornings, and y
371. Want to Quit? Me Too
There comes a moment when even the most passionate teachers whisper to themselves, "I don't know if I can do this anymore". The exhaustion, the negative interactions, and the weight of it all can feel overwhelming. And while it's easy to dwell on the negative (trust me, I have!), since that noise is often louder and takes up more space in your mind, I want you to do the opposite. In this episode,
370. How to End Blurting in Your Classroom
After years of letting interruptions disrupt my teaching, I realized that blurting wasn't usually about disrespect. It was about impulse control. With that mindset shift, I began approaching blurting as a skill gap my students needed help with. In today's episode, I'm sharing three simple, practical, and ready-to-use strategies to stop blurting and turn those interruptions into focused, respectful
369. How to Keep Your Students Engaged in October
October can be one of the most engaging months of the school year when you weave in seasonal themes, keep lessons interactive, and give students ownership of their learning. This month, my goal is to help stock your seasonal resource bucket with ideas that are both effective and fun. To kick things off, today's episode shares six simple, creative strategies to keep students engaged during October,
368. When Parents Question You: Staying Confident & Professional
When parents question your decisions as a teacher, it can feel like your professionalism is on trial, but it's actually an opportunity. Instead of bracing for conflict, what if you leaned in with clarity, calm, and confidence? As the excitement of a new school year wears off, new and challenging situations often arise. That's why I created the September Survival Series; to give you practical tips
367. The September Stress Spiral — How to Step off It & Stay Grounded
Every September, teachers get swept into the "stress spiral" - the endless to-do lists, stacks of papers to grade, and the constant feeling of barely keeping your head above water. But what if this season didn't have to drain you? In last week's episode, I kicked off the September Survival Series, which highlights how teachers can regain control and re-establish routines and procedures with confi
366. When Kids Test You in September: How to Reset Routines Without Starting Over
At the start of the school year, everything feels fresh. Students are eager, polite, and full of curiosity. But as the weeks go on, that initial sparkle can begin to fade. Routines get tested, boundaries are pushed, and the excitement starts to wear off. For most teachers, this transition tends to happen in September, when reality starts to set in. That's why I'm launching a brand-new series calle
365. When You Have Mean or Unsupportive Admin — How to Protect Your Peace When Your Admin Doesn't Have Your Back
When teachers feel like their admin doesn't have their back, it can be exhausting, isolating, and even hopeless at times. But you're not powerless. In fact, there are ways to protect your well-being, advocate for yourself, and create positive change—even when support from the top is lacking. In today's episode, I'm sharing what to do when you're dealing with mean or unsupportive admin, and how to
364. What to Do When Kids Ignore You in Your Elementary Classroom
If you're a beginning teacher dealing with students who constantly ignore you, here are two things you need to know: you're not alone, and it doesn't mean you're a bad teacher. Need some good news? It doesn't have to stay this way! In today's episode, I'm sharing why students might not be listening and giving you a clear, 5-step action plan to help your students follow directions without having to
363. Top Children's Literature Books to Help You Manage Your Elementary Classroom
While many of us use books to support lessons or create a calm, engaging moment with our class, did you know there are other powerful ways to use them? Children's literature isn't just about telling stories. It's an effective tool for establishing expectations, modeling behavior, and building a positive classroom culture. In today's episode, I'm sharing five of my favorite children's books that wi
362. When You Experience Fear of Not Being Good Enough
As you set up your classroom and wait for students to arrive, a different kind of noise often fills the silence: worry. Teachers carry a lot on their shoulders, and sometimes that worry grows loud enough to drown out everything else, stirring up self-doubt. In today's episode, you'll learn simple, practical strategies to quiet that worry, take away its power, and boost your confidence, both in the
361. Classroom Management for Specials Teachers
Classroom management isn't just a concern for homeroom teachers. Specials teachers face their own unique set of challenges: rotating classes, varying expectations, and limited time to build relationships. But with the right strategies, you can turn that chaos into connection and create a learning environment where students thrive, no matter how short the time you have with them. In today's episode
360. 10-Minute Guided Meditation for Teachers: Let Go & Rest
With such long and exhausting days, teachers need more opportunities to relax and declutter their minds, and meditation does just that. It's a powerful tool that allows educators to recharge, reduce stress, and regain focus, helping them show up with presence, patience, and purpose, both in and out of the classroom. In today's episode, I've created a 10-minute guided meditation you can listen to a
359. Master Your Classroom Management with 2nd Grade Teacher Margaret McLellan
One thing I always emphasize is that teachers are lifelong learners. They're constantly evolving, growing, and striving to be their best. Because this mindset plays such an important role in a teacher's success and happiness, I love interviewing educators who truly embody it, and my guest today does just that. Margaret McLellan is a member of the Classroom Management Club and is joining me to shar
358. How to Use Five-Minute Field Trips to Help Kids Regulate, Re-Focus, and Re-Energize
Tapping into your creative side during summer break is a great way to develop engaging strategies that make a real impact on your students and classroom community. Five-minute field trips are one of those strategies you'll want to keep in your toolkit. In today's episode, I revisit this special technique—explaining what it is, when to use it, and how it helps students become regulated, refocused,
357. Classroom Management Coaches: Advice for Elementary Teachers - Part Two
When you're part of the Classroom Management Club, you're not just exchanging ideas and strategies; you're sharing purpose, strength, and the kind of support that only fellow educators can offer. Last week, we kicked off our conversation with three of our fabulous coaches—Alicia, Michelle, and Becca—who shared their experiences as members of the Club and offered tips for improving classroom manage
356. Classroom Management Coaches: Advice for Elementary Teachers - Part One
I always dreamed of creating a space for beginning teachers and the Classroom Management Club has exceeded all expectations. It has grown into a thriving community that turns support and encouragement into daily fuel for growth. In addition to providing resources teachers can use throughout the school year, it includes dedicated coaches who offer ongoing support and guidance to fellow educators. I
355. SPED Teachers: Get Ready for the School Year with Kayla
Beginning teachers imagine that with experience will come more confidence, stronger classroom management, and the ability to handle challenging students and situations with ease. And while that can certainly be true, the reality is that experienced teachers never stop learning and growing in their practice. My guest on today's episode, Kayla, can attest to that. She's sharing how being a member of
354. Get Ready for the School Year with First-Grade Teacher Emily Roberts
When you're just starting out as a teacher, there's so much to learn and never quite enough time. So, what can you do to help yourself feel more prepared and ready to tackle the back-to-school season? My guest on today's episode, Emily Roberts, had the same question. She's sharing how the Academy shaped her preparation, helped her manage challenging student behaviors, and supported her in building
353. Get Ready for the School Year with a Second-Year Teacher
Your first year of teaching often feels like pure survival mode. It's usually not until your second year that you can finally take a breath, make intentional plans, and start growing as an educator. My guest on today's episode, Teresa Grosboll, knows that feeling all too well. She's sharing what it really takes to not just survive, but thrive in your second year—and how the R.E.A.D.Y. for School A
352. The Power of Grit for Elementary Teachers
Let's be honest: teaching gets tough. As a beginning teacher, you're stepping into a world where success isn't defined by perfection, but by perseverance. There will be challenges — tough students, long nights, and moments of doubt — but grit is what will carry you through. In today's episode, inspired by Angela Duckworth's book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, I'm sharing why grit is
351. New Teacher Spotlight: Teaching Overseas
Even with several years of classroom experience working alongside other teachers, stepping into your own classroom comes with a whole new set of challenges. From classroom setup and organization to behavior management and building routines, there are so many things a university program doesn't prepare you for. In today's teacher spotlight, Jenna Barron is sharing her struggles, what she wish she k
350. How to Fit In with Your Grade Level Team at a New School (Even if They're Already Tight)
Teachers often pour so much time and energy into supporting their students that they forget about forming strong relationships with their peers. Navigating adult connections can be unexpectedly tricky. So in today's episode, I'm sharing practical advice for how you can fit in at a new school or with your grade-level team. These strategies will show you that with patience and a positive outlook, yo
349. Managing Fear and Worry About Next School Year
Our brains are wired to worry, so it's only natural for you to wonder how you'll handle the unknown of the coming school year. Using two real-life teacher examples, I'll show how fear and worry about potential challenges can be addressed with simple, actionable strategies. Each concern is valid, but by focusing on what's true and what's working, you'll start to recognize your growth and reframe th
348. New Teacher Spotlight: Kelsey Moody
The first year of teaching is a mix of excitement, nerves, and a whole lot of questions. So if you've just graduated and are looking for a supportive way to prepare and feel a little less stressed, this episode is for you! Today, I'm chatting with Kelsey Moody, a fellow teacher and graduate of my R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/new-teacher Subscribe t
347. Setting Up a Classroom: 6 Mistakes to Avoid
Beginning teachers often get so caught up in the way their classroom looks and forget its true purpose: functionality. Even veteran teachers can benefit from reflecting on their current classroom setup to find better ways to organize the space and better serve their students. In today's episode, I'm sharing six of the most common mistakes teachers make when setting up their classrooms and how to a
346. It's Not Just What You Say — It's HOW You Show Up: The Interview Energy Shift That Gets You Hired
Teacher interviews can be intimidating and often feels like you're stepping into the unknown. But the hidden secret to a successful interview doesn't show up on a resume, a lesson plan you once taught, or even your knowledge of content standards. Instead, it's about your interview energy. In today's episode, I'm discussing what that means, practical ways to show it, what you need to avoid, and why
345. Bridging the Theory-Practice Gap: Transitioning from Student to Teacher (And How Schools Can Help)
The transition from student teacher to full-time teacher can be overwhelming, and many new teachers feel stressed during their first year. This is often due to the gap between the theoretical knowledge gained in university and the practical skills needed in the classroom. In this episode, I discuss how to bridge that gap and how to gain support from adminstrators, schools, and districts. Show Not
344. The Real Cost of Teacher Attrition (& How to Prevent It)
When new teachers are met with feelings of isolation, unprepared realities of the classroom, and unsupportive guidance or mentorship, it often leads to teacher attrition. In today's episode, I dive deeper into how these obstacles contribute to educators leaving the profession, the cost it has on the education system, and what we can do now to prevent teacher burnout. Show Notes: https://www.drlor
343. The 3 Biggest Challenges for New Teachers (& How to Solve Them)
New teachers often leave university feeling unprepared for the realities of the classroom, struggling to bridge the gap between theory and practice. In this episode, we explore three of the biggest challenges they face, based on research, and how to best support them. From managing student behavior to overcoming feelings of isolation, we'll discuss actionable strategies to help new teachers build
342. How to Teach Kids Focus Skills
Are you struggling to keep your students focused? In this episode, I'm sharing simple, research-backed strategies to help students build their attention skills in fun and meaningful ways. You'll learn how to naturally integrate focus-boosting activities into your daily routine, incorporate mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises, and implement gradual, intentional strategies to strengthen
341. How to Structure the Rest of Your Day After an Assessment
After preparing for weeks for state assessments, teachers often get to the day and still have one question left to answer - What do I do with my students after taking the big test? If you have this question, you're not alone! I'm sharing five ideas for how to structure your day after taking exams. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/test-taking-in-elementary Free Masterclass - How to
340. How to Calm & Prepare Students During the Weeks Leading Up to Testing
When it comes to preparing students for state standardized tests, learning and reviewing academic content is just part of the preparation. The other big piece is mindset. In today's episode, I'm sharing 5 strategies that will help your students become calm and confident when taking taking assessments. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/mindfulness-for-elementary-students Free Master
339. Test-Taking Strategies for Math in Elementary
If standardized tests make you anxious, you're not alone! In this episode, we're continuing our test prep series by shifting focus to math. I'm sharing five powerful test-taking strategies to help students tackle math challenges with confidence. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/math-test-taking-skills-in-elementary Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://
338. Helpful Test-Taking Strategies in Elementary Language Arts
As spring approaches, both teachers and students look forward to warmer weather and the excitement of summer, but there's one big source of stress: standardized testing. These tests bring high stakes, with scores affecting decisions at the state, district, and school levels, putting pressure on teachers to help students perform their best. In this episode, I'm kicking off a four-part series on pra
337. How to Take the Pressure Off
We feel so much pressure in our work environment, personal life, and from society. It's difficult to manage all of those emotions and demands. In this episode, I'm sharing why school is the best place to take the pressure off and how you can easily accomplish this with a few mindset shifts. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/take-the-pressure-off Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classr
336. Surviving February: Staying Inspired During the Longest Shortest Month
February can feel long and gloomy, leaving teachers unmotivated. That's why it's so important to bring excitement, joy, and purpose into your days. In this episode, I'm sharing practical ways to help you feel supported so you can not only survive February but thrive through it! Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/teacher-support Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset
335. Practical Self-Kindness for Chronically Tired Teachers
Teachers are great at showing kindness to others but often struggle to extend it to themselves, leading to chronic fatigue and burnout. In this episode, we explore why self-kindness is essential and how it can help you navigate the demands of teaching with more energy, joy, and resilience. You'll learn practical, research-backed strategies to reclaim your time, protect your emotional energy, and c
334. How Elementary Teachers Can Show Kindness & Compassion to Their Students
Modeling kindness is a powerful way to make a lasting impact, which is why it's essential for teachers to show kindness and compassion to their students every day. In this episode, I'm sharing 10 simple and fun ways to model kindness in classrooms, helping to reinforce the positive behaviors you want to see. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/kindness-in-classrooms Free Masterclass -
333. 10 Fun and Easy Ways to Teach Kids Kindness: Practical Ideas You'll Love!
Focusing on respect and kindness can transform your classroom management and foster a stronger sense of community. While academics are important, weaving fun and creative ways to teach kindness to kids into your daily routine is just as essential. In this episode, I'm sharing 10 simple and enjoyable strategies to help you bring more kindness into your classroom. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifries
332. Easy Ways to Involve Movement in Your Lessons (& Increase Student Focus & Engagement)
With limited opportunities to release energy during the school day, it's no surprise that focusing, retaining information, and staying engaged can be a challenge for students. Your first instinct might be to contain this energy, but instead you can harness it in a way that makes your lessons more fun and effective. In today's episode, we'll discuss why movement in the classroom is so critical and
331. How to Reframe Negative Thoughts (And Why It's Important)
It's human nature to think negative thoughts, but the key to not letting it make you feel defeated, frustrated, or doubt your ability to teach is to learn how to reframe those thoughts. In today's episode, I share how your thoughts impact your feelings, actions, and results and share a simple four-step process to reframe negativity. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/positive-mindset-f
330. 10 Research-Backed Ways to Find the Positive in Your Students
Focusing on the positive can transform your classroom by highlighting students' strengths and fostering a supportive environment. In today's episode, I share 10 simple strategies for shifting your focus to what's going right, backed by research showing that positivity boosts relationships, behavior, and academic achievement. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/find-the-positive Free Ma
329. How to Easily Infuse More Humor into Your Classroom
Incorporating humor in the classroom is a small strategy that has the power to transform your classroom atmosphere. Humor isn't just telling knock-knock jokes whenever you have time to fill between activities. Instead, there are so many more ways you can use humor to build connections and create a positive and engaging environment for your students. In today's episode, I'm sharing 15 of my favorit
328. How to Work Less in 2025: 5 Things I Did to Get My Weekends Back
This Christmas, give yourself the gift of time with strategies to achieve work-life balance as a teacher. In this episode, I share five powerful shifts to help you streamline your planning, set boundaries, and create more time for life outside the classroom. These actionable tips may feel challenging at first, but they've made a lasting difference for me, and they can for you too. Start small, imp
327. Simple, Low-Prep Speaking Activities for ELL Students
Teaching English Language Learners (ELLs) can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when it comes to building their confidence to speak and participate in class. In this episode, I'm sharing simple, low-prep speaking activities that make language practice fun and stress-free for your students. Whether they're just starting out or advancing in their language skills, these adaptable strategi
326. 15 Nonverbal Cues Every Teacher Needs to Know
Are you tired of straining your voice and managing a noisy classroom? In this episode, I'm sharing how nonverbal cues can transform your classroom management. Silent signals can lower noise levels, create a calmer environment, and save your voice. Tune in to learn 15 practical examples of nonverbal cues to add to your teaching toolkit! Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/nonverbal-cues
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