Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast

Osad

• 
  The Preschool Framework I Use Every Year 22.07.2026 15min

  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 work.Topics Discussed:How to create an environment that answers children's questions before they need to askWhy we can't expect children to know how to "do school" without intentionally teaching skillsHow successful classroom management happens through repetition and supportWhy teachers feel stuck when it comes to classroom managementRelated Resources:The First Six Weeks Playbook + BundleStop Repeating Yourself All Day Training RegistrationRelated Blogposts/Episodes:Why Planning Classroom Management Before Day 1 Makes All the DifferenceConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  I Open Centers on Day One - But I Don't Expect Independence 08.07.2026 13min

  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 you can teach center routines in a way that builds confidence instead of chaos.Topics Discussed:Why keeping centers closed can actually slow down learningWhy expecting independence too soon leads to frustrationThe skills children need before they can successfully work in centersHow to teach routines while children are actively playingWhy repetition and practice create lasting independenceRelated Resources:Preschool Centers Guide (free)First Six Weeks Playbook + BundleStop Repeating Yourself All Day Training Sign UpRelated Blogposts/Episodes:Why "Just Go Play" Doesn't Work: Explicitly Teaching Center SkillsPreschool Centers: Free Choice or Rotation? 5 Reasons Why Assigning Centers Can BackfireConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  What Actually Matters Before the School Year Starts 24.06.2026 28min

  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 classroom that runs smoothly can teach far more than a classroom that's constantly managing chaos.Topics Discussed:Why systems matter more than activities during the first weeks of schoolThe five classroom routines that create independence all year longHow fewer centers and fewer materials often lead to better learningWhat independence really looks like in a preschool classroomWhy the first month should focus on routines, relationships, and confidence before academicsRelated Resources:Classroom Management BundleRelated Blogposts/Episodes:The First Day of Preschool: What to Prep (and What to Forget)Why Planning for Classroom Management before Day 1 Makes SenseHow to Teach Classroom ProceduresConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  The Preschool Classroom Mistakes That Create Chaos Later 12.06.2026 23min

  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 later on. Plus, what to focus on instead to build a classroom that runs smoothly all year long.Topics Discussed:Why teaching routines matters more than teaching academics during the first weeks of schoolThe difference between telling children what to do and actually teaching a skillWhy opening every center and material right away can create unnecessary chaosHow independence develops through intentional instruction and practiceWhy many behavior challenges are actually teaching opportunitiesRelated Resources:Procedure Card VisualsVisual Schedule CardsRules & ExpectationsTransition Time ToolkitRelated Blogposts/Episodes:The First Day of Preschool: What to Prep (and What to Forget)Why Planning for Classroom Management before Day 1 Makes SenseHow to Teach Classroom ProceduresConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.comLeave a Reply
• 
  5 Ways Teachers Are Using Visual Schedules Wrong (And What to Do Instead) 27.05.2026 17min

  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. They have to be taught, referenced, updated, and used consistently if we want children to feel safe and confident using them.Topics Discussed:Why visual schedules are importantWhy hanging a visual schedule is not enoughHow to teach children to use the scheduleWhy updating the schedule mattersWays to reduce transition anxietyRelated Resources:Visual Schedule CardsRelated Blogposts/Episodes:Why You Should Be Using a Visual ScheduleConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  What to Send Home This Summer (That Kids Will Actually Use) 13.05.2026 14min

  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 play, connection, conversation, and hands-on experiences, not pages of busywork.Topics Discussed:Why traditional take-home packets don't work for preschoolersWhat young children actually need to keep skills fresh over breakHow play-based family activities build math, literacy, and fine motor skillsDone for you take-home activities Related Resources:Family Learning KitsConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  How to Make Assessments Feel Less Overwhelming (Without Skipping Them) 29.04.2026 14min

  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 your teaching.Topics Discussed:Why assessing everything at the beginning of the year doesn’t workWhat to assess at the beginning, middle, and end of the yearThe “Storybook Method” for structuring assessment periodsWhy re-assessment is the missing piece most teachers skipHow to use assessment data to actually guide instructionRelated Resources:Assessment and Portfolio ResourcesConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  What Kids Are Actually Learning in Dramatic Play 15.04.2026 17min

  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 with more structured academics, this episode will help you see why dramatic play deserves a permanent place in your classroom.Topics Discussed:Skill Building in Dramatic PlayWhy engagement is naturally higher in play-based centersHow to set up your dramatic play area with intentionRelated Resources:Dramatic Play BundleRelated Blogposts and Episodes:The Importance of Changing out Play CentersConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Small Spring Shifts, Big Classroom Energy 01.04.2026 13min

  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 smarter with what you already have.Topics Discussed:Why spring behavior shifts are normal (and not a sign something is “wrong”)Why “new but familiar” is the key to better learningSimple ways to update your centers without extra prepWhy a plants theme is the easiest way to bring spring into your classroomRelated Resources:Spring Resources that are done for you!Connect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  The Science of Spring: More Than Cute Crafts 18.03.2026 19min

  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 preschoolWhy spring is the perfect time for scienceCenters vs. STEM ChallengesThe thinking skills hiding in spring scienceHow to make spring science simpleRelated Resources:Science Centers + STEM Challenges BundleConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  From Recognition to Application: A Better Way to Teach Preschool Skills 06.03.2026 19min

  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 the starting line, not the finish lineThe difference between naming and true recognitionThe four stages of preschool skill developmentThe framework and how it supports differentiationSimple ways to get startedRelated Resources:Skill-Based File Folder GamesConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Name Writing Routines That Build Confidence (One Child at a Time) 18.02.2026 23min

  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 child develops at their own pace.Topics Discussed:Why readiness for name writing varies so muchThe developmental foundations required before name writingWhat scaffolding name writing actually looks likeHow to build a name writing routine that works for everyoneWhat to do when a child isn't readyRelated Resources:Name Learning BundleConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Friendship Drama? Friendship Skills Are Learned Behaviors 04.02.2026 18min

  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 Discussed:Why friendship drama increases as the year goes onWhat friendship skills actually areHow to teach friendhip skillsWhy mid-year is the perfect time to strengthen your SEL instructionOne simple friendship skill that you can intentionally teach this weekRelated Resources:Social Emotional Learning Lessons for PreschoolersConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Arctic Animals, Hibernation & Hands-On Winter Centers 21.01.2026 20min

  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 hibernation into skill -rich center workPractical winter center ideas you can useRelated Resources:Science Centers: WinterScience Centers: HibernationWinter Writing InvitationsWinter Dramatic Play CenterHunt the Room WinterConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Circle Time Check-In: What's Working Mid-Year 07.01.2026 16min

  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 evolving your routines is a good thing.Topics Discussed:How circle time looked in August vs how it looks nowWhat's working well mid-yearWhat we've changed along the wayThe social, emotional, and academic growth that has come with circle timeThe resource that I use to help make circle time a successRelated Resources:Pre-K Circle Time VisualsTwo & Three Year Olds Circle Time VisualsRelated Episodes:Podcast: The First Few Weeks of Circle TimeConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Going Beyond Story Time with Interactive Read-Alouds 17.12.2025 20min

  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 preschoolWhat makes a read-aloud interactiveHow to structure a full week of learning around one bookWhy re-reading builds comprehension, confidence, and a love of booksRelated Resources:Interactive Read Aloud Literacy UnitsConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Inviting Preschoolers to Write - Without Pressure 19.11.2025 22min

  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)How to set up Writing InvitationsReal examples of Writing InvitationsWhy Writing Invitations support emergent writing, creativity, and confidenceHow to shift expectations and honor scribbles, symbols, and early marks as real writingCommon pitfalls to avoid (like comparison and overcorrecting)Related Resources:Writing InvitationsFine Motor Build a Skill: do this before name writing!Name Writing NotebooksRelated Blogposts/Episodes:How to Use Writing Invitations in PreschoolConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  The Real Work Behind Name Writing 05.11.2025 27min

  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 name in print to confidently building and eventually writing it. Topics Discussed:Recognition before formation.Before writing, we build - becoming familiar with their names.Hands-on beats pencil-down - strengthing fine motor skills and building letter memory.Are their hands even ready? - Pre-writing skillsWhat happens if we rush?Related Resources:Name Recognition ToolkitFine Motor Build a Skill: do this before name writing!Connect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Handwriting vs. Writing: Why They're Not the Same 22.10.2025 15min

  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 unrealistic expectationsHow each skill develops (spoiler: not at the same pace!)Simple ways to support both - without overwhelming young learnersRelated Resources:Fine Motor Build a SkillName Writing NotebooksWriting Invitations for the Writing CenterShared and Interactive WritingRelated Blogposts/Episodes:How to Use Writing Invitations in PreschoolThings to do Before Teaching Name WritingWhat is Shared and Interactive Writing in Preschool?Stop! Don't Hand that Preschooler a Pencil Yet!Connect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com
• 
  Why Classroom Jobs Aren't Just 'Cute' - They're Crucial 08.10.2025 22min

  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 the system, make it sustainable, and connect it to your academic and SEL goals.Topics Discussed:TheWhyBehind Class JobsCommon Job StrugglesHow to Make it Work and Keep it SimpleRelated Resources:Classroom Jobs ResourcePre-K Circle Time ResourceConnect with AshleyFollow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers PodcastAre you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com