Kindergarten Cafe Podcast: Simple Tips for Teaching Kindergarten

Episoder

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  144. How Nice Should You Be in Kindergarten? 23.07.2026 18min

  If you have ever heard the old advice "don't smile until November or December" and wondered if that is what good classroom management looks like, let me just say….I disagree. Fear-based classrooms do not build respect or learning, and you do not have to choose between being warm and being in control of your room.In this episode, I share:why fear-based classrooms fail and how building genuine, warm relationships with students is the real foundation for a successful yearhow being "warm but firm" works in practice, including how to stay consistent and follow through without yelling or becoming someone's friend instead of their teacherwhy calm, close, and direct redirection is more effective and more respectful than correcting students from across the roomhow to make sure any consequence you give is related, respectful, and realistic so students learn from it instead of learning what they can get away withwhy picking your battles on small things lets you focus your energy on what actually matters, like safety and respect between studentsYou do not have to be strict to be taken seriously, and you do not have to be cold to be respected. Be warm, be consistent, and trust that your kids can feel the difference between a teacher who cares and one who is just trying to control them.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Building Strong Classroom Management ~ Ep. 43Connect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:First Month of Kindergarten Success KitGrab your First Month of Kindergarten Success Kit today on TPT or on my website! First Month Survival Kit TPT - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Month-of-Kindergarten-Success-Kit-9834168?st=5099a0e1f8b3c99dfd410a4162bb0d0c Website - https://kindergartencafe.org/first-month-survival-kit/
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  143. Stop Over-Preparing Your Classroom 16.07.2026 15min

  If your summer has been spent working nonstop, prepping every center, and printing decorations right up until the last hour before school starts, and you still end up feeling exhausted instead of ready, this episode is for you. Overpreparing your classroom feels productive, but it is often not the thing that actually sets you up for a successful first day.In this episode, I share:why overpreparing your classroom can feel like control and confidence even when it is not actually preparing you to teachhow the pressure of seeing "perfect" classrooms on social media can push you to prepare the wrong things over the summerwhy having your first week of lessons planned matters far more than decorations, and what to focus on insteadwhat student materials need to be ready for day one versus what can wait, like folders you will not use right awaywhy closing off certain classroom areas until you can properly teach how to use them is a smart, intentional choicewhy bulletin boards, monthly copies, and intervention materials do not need to be finished before the first dayhow leaving room in your plans and your classroom lets you adjust based on what your students need once you get to know themwhy "prepared" does not mean "perfect," and how aiming for a good enough classroom takes real pressure off your summerYou do not have to have everything finished before the first day of school, and honestly, you should not. The classroom that works best is the one that grows with the kids in front of you, not the one that was perfectly ready before they ever walked in.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:What To Do If You Can’t Get Into Your Classroom Yet ~ Ep. 91Resources:First Month of Kindergarten Success Kit | Back to School Activities Mega BundleConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:PD By the PoolSwim on over to pdbythepool.com and secure your spot today!!
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  142. What Actually Matters Before the First Day of School 09.07.2026 17min

  If you have spent your summer feeling pressure to make your classroom Pinterest perfect, this episode is here to take that weight off your shoulders. A beautiful classroom is not the same as a kindergarten ready classroom, and what your students actually need before day one has nothing to do with matching bins or a coordinated theme.In this episode, I share:why students notice feeling safe, knowing what to expect, and having strong routines far more than they notice decorhow to think through classroom flow so kids can move between areas without traffic jams and you can keep an eye on every part of the roomwhy organizing materials for student independence should take priority over decorating, and how labels with visuals support thatwhy over-communicating with families matters more in kindergarten than in other grades, since school may be brand new for both kids and parentshow to break down key transitions like arrival, rug time, bathroom routines, centers, and dismissal so you can teach them step by stepwhy simple color schemes and bare walls actually help young children learn better than fully themed, decorated classroomswhy some of the "perfect" classrooms you see online are not designed with real kindergartners in mind, and why that is worth rememberingWork with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:What I’d Do First If I Were Moving Classrooms ~ Ep. 138Resources:PD By the PoolClassroom LabelsFirst Month of Kindergarten Success Kit | Back to School Activities Mega BundleConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:PD By the PoolSwim on over to pdbythepool.com and secure your spot today!!
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  141. Questions to Ask and Answer Before the School Year Starts 02.07.2026 13min

  If summer break has you staring at a long list of things to fix, buy, or change in your classroom, and you are not sure where to even start, this episode will help you slow down before you dive in. Whether you are a brand new kindergarten teacher or a returning one, the most useful thing you can do this July is ask yourself the right questions first, so the time and energy you do put in actually moves the needle for next year.In this episode, I share:why new teachers should start by picturing what their classroom and routines should look like in the spring before planning how the year beginshow looking ahead to your curriculum and school-wide routines helps you set up your classroom and teach beginning-of-year routines that actually workwhy returning teachers should reflect on what worked, what didn't, and what kept causing problems before making any summer changeshow to identify the one or two areas worth improving this summer instead of trying to overhaul everything at oncewhy asking yourself whether something was "worth the squeeze" helps you simplify what is not sustainablewhat information about your students is important to gather before the year startswhy summer is also a time to rest and fill your own cup, not just plan for schoolWork with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:What I’d Do If I Were New to Kindergarten ~ Ep. 137Resources:PD By the PoolConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:PD By the PoolSwim on over to pdbythepool.com and secure your spot today!!
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  140. Creating A Calm And Focused Classroom With Mindfulness 25.06.2026 12min

  If you find yourself constantly reminding your students to sit down, stop talking, or refocus and it feels like you are saying the same things on repeat all day, this episode is for you. What looks like a behavior problem is often a skill gap, and mindfulness gives you a practical, low-prep way to actually teach kids how to calm their bodies and reset so they are ready to learn.In this episode, I share:why mindfulness in kindergarten has nothing to do with long meditations and everything to do with short, repeatable moments that teach kids body awareness and self-regulationhow five-finger breathing works, why it is one of the most effective tools for helping kids reset after transitions, and how to teach it so students can eventually use it on their ownwhat a calm down corner can look like in a kindergarten classroom and how to use it as a teaching moment rather than a punishmentsimple mindfulness activities you can use during morning meeting, before and after lessons, and in transitions…including GoNoodle, Cosmic Kids Yoga, and sound awareness exerciseswhat to expect when you start using mindfulness consistently, and why starting with just one routine is exactly the right moveYour students are not trying to make your day harder. They just do not know yet how to manage big feelings, busy bodies, and tough transitions and you are exactly the right person to teach them.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Setting Up A Calm Down Corner For Your Classroom ~ Ep. 100Resources:Social Emotional Year Long BundleConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:PD By the PoolSwim on over to pdbythepool.com and secure your spot today!!
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  139. Fostering Creativity in Kindergarten 18.06.2026 14min

  If you have been wanting to bring more creativity into your kindergarten classroom but are not sure where to start (or you love the idea of a creation station but the thought of managing the mess stops you every time) this episode is for you. Creativity in kindergarten is not about cute crafts where everyone's project looks the same. It is about giving kids space to think, invent, and surprise you, and this episode will show you how to make that actually work in a real classroom.In this episode, I share:why true creativity looks different from step-by-step crafts, and why that distinction matters for how you plan and set up your classroomhow open-ended materials like loose parts, blocks, and art centers build problem-solving, language, confidence, and independence in kindergarten studentswhat a “Beautiful Stuff” creation station is, how to set one up using recycled materials, and why it is one of the most engaging centers you can offerhow to introduce and manage a creation station so students can use it independently, clean it up responsibly, and keep coming back to it all yearwhy the fear of mess is one of the biggest things holding teachers back from creativity, and how to let go of just enough of it to make these centers thriveYou do not have to overhaul your whole classroom to bring more creativity in. Start with one area, make one shift, and watch what your students do with a little more space to try things their own way.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Loose Parts 101: Creative Play and Learning for Young Children ~ Ep. 79Resources:Purposeful Play BundleConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Kindergarten Kick Start Summer Challenge Sign up now at kindergartencafe.org/summer-challenge.
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  138. What I’d Do First If I Were Moving Classrooms 11.06.2026 10min

  Moving into a new classroom, whether you are changing schools, switching grades, or just getting a different room, can feel like a lot all at once. There is new furniture, new materials, and no roadmap for how any of it fits together yet. If you are standing in the middle of it all wondering where to even begin, this episode will walk you through exactly what to do first.In this episode, I share:why systems matter far more than aesthetics when you are setting up a new classroom, and why the decorating can waithow to think through your classroom layout by planning for traffic flow, independence, and transitions before you move a single piece of furniturehow to sort and evaluate inherited materials without getting rid of something you might need laterwhy your first year in a new room is not the time to buy a lot of new supplies, and how to identify what you really need once you are in the spacehow to set up storage so that kids can access what they need, you can find what you are looking for, and the room can keep evolving as you get to know your studentsYour classroom does not need to be perfect before the first day of school, and it is not supposed to be. The layout and the systems are your foundation…everything else can grow from there.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageResources:PD BY THE POOLDone For You Classroom DecorationsConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Kindergarten Kick Start Summer Challenge Sign up now at kindergartencafe.org/summer-challenge.
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  137. What I’d Do If I Were New to Kindergarten 04.06.2026 11min

  If you will be brand new to teaching kindergarten next year, or switching to kindergarten from another grade, the excitement is probably mixed with a whole lot of "where do I even start?" Kindergarten is its own world, and no matter how many years you have in the classroom, nothing fully prepares you for it until someone who's been there walks you through it. This episode is that walk-through.In this episode, I share:why being new to kindergarten is genuinely different from being new to teaching, even if you have taught other grades beforehow seeing your classroom early and connecting with your grade level team gives you the information and support you need before the first day arriveswhy every curriculum assumes skills your students do not have yet, and what foundational routines you need to teach before lesson onehow planning only your first week of school is not just enough but the right move, and what that week should focus onwhy your routine plan needs to come before your classroom layout, and how to think through both without getting overwhelmedYou do not need to have everything figured out before the first day of kindergarten. You just need to know where to start.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageResources:First-Year Kindergarten Teacher Survival GuidePD BY THE POOLConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Kindergarten Kick Start Summer Challenge Sign up now at kindergartencafe.org/summer-challenge.
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  136. Did You Have a Hard Kindergarten Year? Let's Talk About Why 28.05.2026 18min

  If this school year felt harder than expected, more exhausting than rewarding, or like you were constantly trying to keep up, this episode is an honest and encouraging conversation for kindergarten teachers.I talk directly to teachers who are ending the year drained and wondering why teaching kindergarten felt so hard. Whether it was your first year or your twentieth, I want you to know that struggling does not mean you are failing, it often means the systems around you are not working.From unrealistic expectations to academic pressure, behavior challenges, and trying to do too much at once, this episode unpacks why kindergarten can feel overwhelming and what teachers can shift moving forward.In this episode, I share:why so many kindergarten teachers are ending the year exhaustedhow outside pressures on teachers make the job heavier than everwhy kindergarten is becoming more academic than many children are ready forhow unrealistic expectations often lead to more behaviors in the classroomwhy kindergarten teachers carry both academic and social-emotional foundations for studentshow trying to “do it all” sets teachers up to feel constantly behindwhy some responsibilities can be simplified, reduced, or let go of altogethercommon habits that create unnecessary stress, like overplanning and constantly finding new activitieswhy repeating strong routines works better than chasing novelty every weekhow unclear systems for materials, transitions, and classroom management create daily frictionwhy children need consistent expectations and repetition more than endless new activitieshow building independence early saves teachers energy all year longpractical examples for helping students manage snack time, supplies, and simple routines on their ownhow to identify classroom “traffic jams” that cause chaos and stresswhy thinking backward from your end-of-year goal helps create stronger routines from day onehow small system changes can create a dramatically smoother yearThis episode is especially helpful for teachers who love kindergarten but know something has to change next year.If you’ve ever thought, “I love these kids, but I can’t keep teaching like this,” this episode will feel like someone finally saying the quiet part out loud.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageResources:PD By the Pool - Private PodcastBack to School First Day and First Week Kindergarten Activities and Lesson PlansConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Kindergarten Kick Start Summer Challenge Sign up now at kindergartencafe.org/summer-challenge.
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  135. End-of-the-Year Social Emotional Learning: Supporting Big Feelings Before Summer 21.05.2026 13min

  The end of the school year can bring excitement, celebration, and fun, but it also brings a lot of feelings. In this episode, I talk about how to support students socially and emotionally as the school year comes to a close.Many children are processing more than adults realize. They may be excited for summer while also feeling sad about leaving their teacher, nervous about a new classroom, worried about losing routines, or unsure what summer will look like at home. Those mixed emotions often show up through behavior.I want to share practical ways to help students feel safe, understood, and emotionally supported during this big transition.In this episode, I share:why behavior changes at the end of the year are often a form of communicationcommon emotions students feel as the year wraps up, even if they cannot express them directlywhy kindergarten students often struggle more with transitions than older gradeshow strong teacher relationships can make saying goodbye especially emotionalwhy countdowns to the last day of school can increase anxiety and behaviorswhy I avoid saying things like “you’re almost first graders” too earlyhow to teach students about mixed emotions and the meaning of “bittersweet”how social stories can help children process worries about next year or summer breakwhy visiting first grade classrooms and meeting next year’s teachers can reduce fearhow keeping routines steady helps children feel secure during a changing seasonwhy adding fun theme days, novelty, movement, and choice helps regulate behaviorhow new materials during playtime can increase engagement and reduce conflictwhy it’s important to celebrate not only academic growth, but social and emotional growth toosimple ways to create closure through memory sharing, slideshows, and meaningful goodbyesThis episode is a helpful reminder that big feelings at the end of the year are normal. Students are not trying to be difficult…they are trying to navigate change. With the right support, teachers can help children leave feeling proud, calm, and ready for what comes next.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageResources:End of the Year Kindergarten Theme DaysEnd of the Year Writing Prompts & Memory Book!Connect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:End of Year BundleGrab the bundle at www.kindergartencafe.org/may
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  134. Creating a Smooth Transition from Kindergarten to First Grade 14.05.2026 18min

  The move from kindergarten to first grade is exciting, but for many students, it can also feel like a really big change. In this episode, I share how to support children emotionally, socially, and academically as they prepare for the transition to first grade.Some students are thrilled and ready. Others may feel nervous, anxious, or overwhelmed about leaving a classroom that has become their safe place all year. Teachers and parents may also have worries about whether a child is truly ready for what comes next.I break down practical ways to ease the transition for everyone involved while keeping the end of the year calm and positive.In this episode, I share:why the transition to first grade can feel much bigger than adults sometimes realizecommon differences between kindergarten and first grade that can create stress for studentshow to help children reflect on how much they’ve grown and why that builds confidence for next yearwhy independence skills practiced all year long are one of the best forms of first-grade preparationhow classroom visits and meeting first-grade teachers can reduce fear of the unknownwhy I avoid talking about being “almost first graders” too early in the yearhow countdown language can increase anxiety and behavior struggles for some studentswhen to use a personalized social story for students who are especially worried about the changehow memory books and celebrations help students process the end of kindergarten in a healthy waysimple ways teachers can prepare themselves now for next school year and reduce future stresshow cleaning toys and organizing materials can help both students and teachers transitionwhat teachers can do when they are worried about certain students moving on to first gradehow to communicate support strategies to next year’s teacher without labeling the child negativelyways to help families prevent the “summer slide” and keep learning going at homeThis episode is full of reminders that transitions affect every child differently. With the right support, encouragement, and preparation, students can leave kindergarten feeling proud of what they accomplished and ready for what comes next.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Stress-Free End-of-the-Year Tips ~ Ep. 32End of the Year Teacher Tips to Prepare for a Smooth Start Next School Year ~ Ep. 84Learn More:5 Easy things to prepare for next school yearResources:End of Year Kindergarten Summer Packet for First Grade ReadinessEnd of the Year Writing Prompts & Memory Book!End of Year Digital Social StoryBack to School First Day and First Week Kindergarten Activities and Lesson PlansConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:End of Year BundleGrab the bundle at www.kindergartencafe.org/may
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  133. Engaging End-of-Year Activities for Kindergarteners 07.05.2026 12min

  The end of the year brings a very real energy shift in kindergarten. Kids are tired, routines start to feel old, and the big transition to summer or first grade can bring excitement for some students and a lot of anxiety for others. In this episode, I share how to keep the classroom fun and engaging at the end of the year without throwing out the structure that kids still need.I explain why end-of-year routines matter more than ever, especially for students who feel worried about change, and why adding novelty in thoughtful ways can help keep everyone regulated, motivated, and excited to come to school.In this episode, I share:why the end-of-year behavior shift happens and how to respond without abandoning your routineswhy I does not recommend a countdown to the last day of school, especially for anxious studentshow theme days can add excitement and novelty while still keeping your daily structure intactwhy movement breaks become even more important at the end of the year and how to use them proactivelyhow letting students take the lead as “teacher of the day” can build confidence, ownership, and engagementhow adding simple choices throughout the day helps students stay more invested in learningways to help children reflect on their kindergarten year through memory books and favorite momentshow to keep end-of-year celebrations simple, meaningful, and low-stress with a focus on celebrating growthThis episode is full of practical ideas for making the last stretch of kindergarten more joyful, more manageable, and a lot less chaotic. If you want your students to stay engaged while still feeling safe in the familiar rhythm of the day, this episode will give you plenty of ways to make that happen.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:End of the Year Teacher Tips to Prepare for a Smooth Start Next School Year ~ Ep. 84End of the Year Celebrations in Kindergarten ~ Ep. 8310 Movement Breaks for the End of the Year ~ Ep. 35End-of-Year Magic: Unleashing Excitement with Theme Day Ideas ~ Ep. 82Stress-Free End-of-the-Year Tips ~ Ep. 32Resources:End of the Year Writing Prompts & Memory Book!End of the Year Kindergarten Theme Days | Last Week of School ActivitiesMay & June Kindergarten PlansConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:End of Year BundleGrab the bundle at www.kindergartencafe.org/may
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  132. Supporting Students who Struggle With Mistakes 30.04.2026 20min

  A worksheet gets crumpled and thrown away. Tears start over one small error. A student refuses to even begin because they’re afraid of getting it wrong.I’m sure you’ve seen this in your classroom.In this episode, I explain what’s really going on when students struggle to handle mistakes, and how to support them in a way that helps them move forward.You’ll hear how these reactions often stem from anxiety, perfectionism, or a lack of growth mindset, and why simply telling students “it’s okay” isn’t enough in the moment.In this episode you’ll hear:the common reasons students react strongly to mistakes, including fear of failure, comparison, and lack of persistencehow to reframe mistakes as learning opportunities using simple, consistent languagewhy it’s important to explicitly teach growth mindset, persistence, and emotional regulation outside of those difficult momentspractical ways to respond in real time when students cry, shut down, crumple their work, or refuse to starthow to support different types of reactions with specific strategies (like using fix-it tape, offering breaks, or reducing the workload)ways to build emotional regulation skills and give students language to express frustration appropriatelyhow to stay consistent while still being flexible in how students show their learningspecial considerations for students who are learning English and may be afraid to take risks with languageI also share real classroom scenarios and what she would say or do in each situation, helping you see how these strategies play out in practice.If you have students who shut down, avoid work, or get overwhelmed by mistakes, this episode will give you practical tools to support them while still keeping expectations in place.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Kickstart the New Year with Growth Mindset Strategies ~ Ep. 115Teaching Students to Persevere ~ Ep. 20Strategies for Teaching Emotional Regulation and Handling Extreme Outbursts ~ Ep. 55Strategies for Teaching English Learners ~ Ep. 31Teaching Problem-Solving Skills with Young Students ~ Ep. 57Resources:Fix It Tape (Amazon Affiliate Link)Growth mindset books: (Amazon Affiliate Link)Social Emotional LessonsClass Dojo - Growth MindsetConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:SEL ChallengeJoin the FREE 5-Day Social Emotional Learning Challenge: Planting Seeds for Classroom Calm https://www.kindergartencafe.org/challenge/
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  131. Building Self-Confidence In Kindergarteners 23.04.2026 20min

  Self-confidence plays a huge role in how students learn, take risks, and see themselves in the classroom and kindergarten is a critical time to begin shaping that identity. This episode shares practical, everyday strategies teachers can use to help students build confidence and develop a positive sense of themselves as learners.You’ll hear why confidence isn’t just about feeling good, it directly impacts whether students are willing to try, make mistakes, and keep going when things get hard.In this episode, I share:why self-confidence is essential for learning and how negative self-beliefs can hold students backhow building independence through daily routines and classroom systems helps students feel capableways to incorporate choice into the day so students take ownership of their learninghow to teach and model growth mindset, including using simple language shifts like adding “yet”the importance of celebrating effort, persistence, and progress, not just the final producthow to respond to mistakes in a way that builds resilience instead of discouragementwhy classroom language matters (including addressing phrases like “that was easy”)simple ways to highlight each student’s strengths while helping them work through challengesI also share ideas for using morning meetings, class celebrations, and positive notes home to create a classroom environment where every student feels seen, capable, and valued.If you’re looking for practical ways to support students who hesitate, compare themselves, or shut down when learning feels hard, this episode will give you strategies you can start using right away.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Kickstart the New Year with Growth Mindset Strategies ~ Ep. 115Teaching Students to Persevere ~ Ep. 20The Power of Positive Reinforcement in Kindergarten ~ Ep. 73Resources:Kindergarten Social Emotional LessonsSocial Emotional Challenges!Connect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:SEL Bundlehttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Year-Long-Kindergarten-Curriculum-Bundle-11-SEL-Units-3904167
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  130. What Every Dramatic Play Center Really Needs 16.04.2026 17min

  Dramatic play is one of the most powerful learning areas in an early childhood classroom, but many classrooms are losing it or aren’t sure how to set it up effectively. In this episode, I break down what every strong dramatic play center should include and how to keep the area engaging for students throughout the year.You’ll hear how dramatic play supports language development, social skills, imagination, and academic learning, all while students think they’re just playing.In this episode, I share:the key elements every dramatic play setup should includehow to build literacy opportunities into play through signs, menus, forms, and word chartssimple ways to add math connections like counting, measuring, and pricinghow dramatic play helps build background knowledge and vocabulary through real-world roleswhen to change your dramatic play center and how to tell when students are ready for something newI also share many of my favorite dramatic play themes, including favorites like the vet office, movie theater, post office, travel center, bakery, and farmer’s market and how I rotate them throughout the year.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:The Power of Dramatic Play in the Classroom ~ Ep. 23Resources:Dramatic Play Themes & Easy Set-Ups BundleConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode: Purposeful Play Mega Bundle https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Purposeful-Play-Mega-Bundle-Kindergarten-Play-Based-Learning-System-15337551
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  129. What Principals Really Want You to Know About Hiring, Interviews, and Getting the Job 09.04.2026 50min

  If you are applying for a new teaching job, hoping to switch schools, changing grade levels, or trying to land your very first classroom position, this episode is packed with the kind of advice you usually only hear behind closed doors.I am joined by not one, but two elementary principals, Jake and Rob, for an honest conversation about what really matters in the hiring process. From getting the interview to standing out once you’re in the room.They talk through what principals notice right away, what makes a candidate memorable, and how teachers can better prepare for interviews, demo lessons, and even internal grade-level changes. There is also a lot of reassurance here for anyone feeling discouraged by rejections or overwhelmed by the process.In this episode, we discuss:how to talk to your principal if you want to change grade levels within your schoolwhat helps candidates land an interview, including resume details, cover letters, and reaching out directlywhy getting your foot in the door through subbing, paraprofessional work, or long-term positions can make a huge differencewhat principals are really looking for in an interview beyond the buzzwordshow personality, authenticity, preparation, and school culture all factor into hiring decisionsthe kinds of questions candidates should be ready to answer, especially around collaboration, differentiation, and family communicationwhat questions you should ask in an interview to make sure the school is the right fit for youtips for demo lessons, including how to prepare, what administrators are watching for, and why student engagement matters mostThis episode is packed! Jake and Rob also share some of the biggest red flags in interviews, the value of thank-you emails, and why schools are not just hiring a teacher on paper, they are hiring someone to join a team and care for kids every day.If you are job searching right now, or even just thinking about making a change, this episode will help you feel more prepared, more confident, and a lot less in the dark about the process.Work with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Monthly Guideshttps://www.kindergartencafe.org/guides/
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  128. Adding Details In Writing 02.04.2026 17min

  In kindergarten writing, the main goal is helping students write a strong, clear sentence. But once some students are ready to go further, the next step is learning how to add meaningful details that bring their stories to life.In this episode, I share simple strategies for teaching young writers how to expand their stories without overwhelming them. I explain how to break the skill into manageable steps and introduce one type of detail at a time through small groups, conferences, and modeling.Inside this episode, you’ll hear ideas for:teaching students to add thinking and talking through speech and thought bubbleshelping writers include feelings so readers better understand the storyguiding students to use the five senses to make their writing more vividusing small groups, checklists, and sticky-note goals to support individual writerswhy oral storytelling and writing warmups help students generate stronger details before they begin writingWork with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageRelated Episodes:Using Writing Goals to Empower Young Writers ~ Ep. 24Learn More:Use Kindergarten Writing Prompts and Easy Warm-Ups to Improve Writing!Resources:Writing Adding Details: Writing Small GroupsTeaching Writing in Small Groups Bundle | Differentiated Writing Groups K-2Connect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Literacy Support Bundlehttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Year-Long-Literacy-Support-for-Small-Group-Instruction-BUNDLE-Reading-Writing-11977457
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  127. Field Trip Tips! 26.03.2026 19min

  Planning a field trip can feel exciting… and slightly terrifying at the same time. In this episode, I share all the practical tips I’ve learned over the years to make field trips smoother, safer, and far less stressful for teachers. Everything from choosing the right location to organizing groups and managing the day-of logistics. If you’ve ever worried about keeping track of 20+ kids in a crowded public place, this episode is for you.Inside the episode, I share tips like:how to choose a field trip location that’s actually manageable for your classways to organize parent volunteers and small student groups for better supervisionsimple strategies for preparing families and students ahead of timewhat to bring with you on the trip (including a few things you might not think of)how to keep students safe, organized, and still excited about the experienceWork with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Monthly Guideshttps://www.kindergartencafe.org/guides/
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  126. Making the Shift to Systematic Phonics Intruction with Melanie from Phonics Rules for Kids 19.03.2026 26min

  Phonics can feel… well, stressful. For teachers and parents. I invited Melanie Jeffrey, host of the Phonics Rules for Kids podcast and former K–3 classroom teacher turned phonics coach to talk about what actually helps early readers become confident decoders (and what looks like reading but is really just guessing).Melanie shares how her instruction shifted from leveled texts and “cueing” strategies to more systematic phonics, and why it made such a noticeable difference for kids.You’ll hear practical, classroom-friendly ideas like:what to focus on in small groups when a child is stuck at blending/decodingwhy that jump from easy leveled books to harder ones can completely derail kidssimple “must-have” materials for phonics-based small groups (without needing 97 bins)an easy phonics game kids will beg to play again (and that won’t require re-teaching directions weekly)why partner reading often beats silent reading in kindergarten (and why “silent reading” can be a wild expectation anyway)Plus, Melanie shares what inspired her to start helping parents teach phonics at home in short, doable chunks so it doesn’t turn into nightly tears and drama.Connect with Melanie:Podcast - Phonics Rules for KidsWebsite - phonicsrulesforkids.comWork with Zeba 1:1 CoachingSend Zeba a voice messageConnect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Literacy Support Bundlehttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Year-Long-Literacy-Support-for-Small-Group-Instruction-BUNDLE-Reading-Writing-11977457
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  125. Kindergarten Addition Tips and Extensions 12.03.2026 16min

  This episode tackles two opposite classroom math challenges: students who don’t get addition, and students who’ve already mastered it. Whether you're trying to build understanding from the ground up or keep your addition knowers engaged, I shares real, classroom-tested strategies that go beyond just “more worksheets.”In this episode I share:Why addition often breaks down when students move too quickly from counting to abstract story problemsHow using concrete tools (counters, 10‑frames, visuals) helps students truly understand “total” and “altogether”The importance of modeling, repetition, and explicitly teaching how to combine groupsWays to deepen learning by having students explain their thinking, create their own problems, and find multiple solutionsHow logic puzzles and open‑ended math tasks build problem‑solving skills without rushing ahead in contentSend Zeba a voice messageResources:Kindergarten Cafe Math ResourcesKenKen PuzzlesTangMath by Greg TangBedtime MathMath Books I recommend (Amazon Affiliate Link)Connect with Zeba:Instagram - @kindergartencafeFacebook - @kindergartencafeWebsite - www.kindergartencafe.orgTik Tok - @kindergartencafeMentioned in this episode:Kindergarten Math for the WHOLE Year BundleGrab the bundle at https://www.kindergartencafe.org/math