Teacher Approved: Elementary Teacher Tips & Strategies

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  286. 6 Simple Steps for Smoother Classroom Transitions 14.09.2026 21dk

  Transitions can quietly eat up valuable instructional time, especially when students start moving before directions are finished. In this episode, we’re breaking down a simple framework for making prompted transitions smoother, more efficient, and easier to manage by standardizing your approach. We’ll walk through the key steps and how they can help students know when to listen, when to move, and what to do next. With a consistent format in place, transitions can become a smoother, more predictable part of your classroom day.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/smooth-classroom-transitions/Resources:Order our book: Structure and SparkUngodly RichJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 48. How to Make Classroom Transitions Simple With Clear Beginnings and EndingsEpisode 49. Rapid Classroom Transitions: How to Save 45 Hours a YearEpisode 50. 3 Guidelines to Make Classroom Transitions Work Smarter Not HarderEpisode 254. Why Your Students Get Chatty During Transitions (And How to Stop It)Episode 282. 3 Ways to Hold Students Accountable to Your Classroom Expectations
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  285. Positive Classroom Culture is Your Management Secret Weapon 07.09.2026 23dk

  Your classroom culture is what teaches students how to behave, whether you’re the one doing the teaching or not! In this episode, we’re talking about how to intentionally shape a positive classroom culture that makes classroom management easier. We break down five practical steps and explain how social skills, positive peer pressure, and clearly reinforced expectations can help students take more ownership of how your classroom works.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/positive-classroom-culture/Resources:Order our book: Structure and SparkHangersJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 283. Why Reaching for a Reward System Might Be the Wrong First MoveEpisode 245. How to Build a Teacher Wardrobe That Fits Your LifeEpisode 150. Perfect Your Classroom Procedures with the Help of Our Guiding QuestionsEpisode 278. Want Better Behavior? Start with RelationshipsEpisode 87. 4 Important Ways to Build Classroom Community at Back to School
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  284. Want Better Classroom Behavior? Start in the Hallway 31.08.2026 24dk

  Hallway procedures might seem like a small part of classroom management, but they can have a much bigger impact on classroom success than you might expect. In this classic replay episode, we’re breaking down how to create effective hallway procedures by planning strategically, responding to disruptions, and teaching and practicing expectations with your students. With a little intentional planning and practice, your hallway procedures can become a simple but powerful foundation for a calmer, more successful classroom.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/hallway-behavior-management/Resources:Order our book: Structure and SparkClassroom Procedures and Routines Teaching Slides BundleJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 150. Perfect Your Classroom Procedures with the Help of Our Guiding QuestionsEpisode 173. Getting into the Nitty Gritty of Classroom Procedures and RoutinesEpisode 75. Classroom Procedures and Expectations: How they Differ and How to Teach ThemEpisode 18. Procedures for Success!Episode 98. 5 Reasons Your Attention Signal Isn’t Working and How to Improve It
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  283. Can't Miss Classic: Why Reaching for a Reward System Might Be the Wrong First Move 27.08.2026 25dk

  Rewards might feel like an easy classroom management solution, but are they actually making your life harder? In this Can't Miss Classic, we’re taking a closer look at when rewards help, when they can backfire, and how to use them more intentionally. We’re sharing why you probably don’t need a reward system from day one, how to use short-term and surprise rewards strategically, and simple ways to build classroom community without turning every positive behavior into a transaction.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-classroom-management/Resources:Order our book: Structure and SparkJoin the Teacher Approved Club!December Teacher PlannerDrive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. PinkSkylight CalendarDr Scholl’s Women’s SneakerConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 148, ​​How to Build Positive Relationships with Your Students at Back-to-SchoolEpisode 114, Elementary Teacher Questions Answered Part 1Episode 103, When to Use Rewards to Boost Your Behavior Management – And When Not ToEpisode 87, 4 Important Ways to Build Classroom Community at Back to SchoolEpisode 73, 4 Reasons Why Affirming Students Is The Most Important Goal for Back to School
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  282. 3 Ways to Hold Students Accountable to Your Classroom Expectations 24.08.2026 26dk

  By the third week of school, the novelty starts to wear off and classroom expectations can begin to slip. In this episode, we explore how to hold students accountable without becoming harsh, using three practical strategies: reteaching procedures, giving clear directions and expecting follow-through, and helping students take ownership of their behavior. The goal is to stay steady, reinforce what matters, and create a classroom where students know they can count on consistent expectations!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/classroom-expectations/Resources:Order our book: Structure and SparkTraysTeacher Approved: Calming Piano Spotify playlistJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 48. How to Make Classroom Transitions Simple With Clear Beginnings and EndingsEpisode 49. Rapid Classroom Transitions: How to Save 45 Hours a YearEpisode 50. 3 Guidelines to Make Classroom Transitions Work Smarter Not HarderEpisode 98. 5 Reasons Your Attention Signal Isn’t Working and How to Improve It
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  281. Can't Miss Classic: The Two Hours That Shape Your Entire First Day 20.08.2026 24dk

  The first day of school doesn’t have to leave you completely wiped out! In this replay episode, we’re talking about the “back-to-school sandwich” and the often-overlooked moments before and after students arrive. We’re sharing practical ways to prepare emotionally, handle the logistical details, and plan for recovery so you can protect your energy and head into day two feeling a little more grounded. Plus, we’ve got a fun way to celebrate surviving that first day with your teacher friends!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/first-day-of-school-tips/Resources:Freebie: Cheers and Chat InvitationGuided Discovery of School Tools Back to School Readiness ChecklistsThe Spellshop, by Sarah Beth DurstJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 144, How to Plug-and-Play Your First Day of School PlansEpisode 145, Our Best Tools for First-Day PlanningEpisode 146, Never Pick Up Another Stray Crayon: Why We Love Guided DiscoveryEpisode 211, The 3 Questions Every Student Needs Answered in the First 3 Days of SchoolEpisode 213, 6 Simple Goals to Make Open House or Back-to-School Night a SuccessEpisode 215, Here’s EXACTLY What to Do in the First 20 Minutes on the First Day of School
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  280. 4 Teacher Lessons We Wish We'd Learned Sooner 17.08.2026 30dk

  As our book Structure and Spark gets ready to go out into the world, we’re looking back at four lessons we wish we had learned much earlier in our teaching careers. In this episode, we unpack the ideas that changed the way we approached teaching, from building the right systems and staying on the student’s side to protecting time outside of school. We learned the hard way that the real goal isn’t to become perfect teachers, it’s to be responsive ones!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-advice/Resources:Last chance to preorder our book Structure and Spark!Color Stack Challenge GameYarn Fever! GameJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 153. How Teachers Can Thrive During the Back-to-School Season – Our Best StrategiesEpisode 114. Elementary Teacher Questions Answered Part 1Episode 81. 20 Teacher Approved Back to School Tips From Listeners!Episode 120. Supporting New Teachers with Ashleigh from Rainbow Skies for New Teachers
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  279. Can't Miss Classic: What Every Student Needs to Hear in the First Three Days 13.08.2026 19dk

  The first few days of school set the tone for everything that follows, so how can you intentionally build a classroom where students feel safe, seen, and needed? In this can’t-miss classic episode, we’re sharing practical ways to answer those three questions from day one through clear procedures, meaningful connection, and opportunities for every student to contribute. We’ll walk you through our approach to the first three days, plus share ideas for classroom jobs that actually matter and help students feel like they belong!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/first-3-days-of-school-activities/Resources:Pre-order our book: Structure and SparkFirst Day of School Lesson Plan GuideTell, Try, Tally, Talk Google SlidesDeleteMeOur Favorite Back to School Books: First Day Jitters, When You Go to Dragon School, A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School Join the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 75, Classroom Procedures and Expectations: How They Differ and How to Teach ThemEpisode 205, Use This One-Hour Teacher Trick to Start the School Year Calm and ReadyEpisode 207, No Class List? No Problem – Here’s What to Prep While You WaitEpisode 209, The Most Important Back-to-School Prep No One Talks About
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  278. Want Better Behavior? Start with Relationships 10.08.2026 27dk

  Strong teacher student relationships are the foundation of effective classroom management! In this episode, we share practical ways to build trust from the very beginning of the school year and explain why cooperation is more powerful than compliance. You'll walk away with simple strategies to build a positive classroom community that supports learning all year long!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-student-relationshipsResources:Preorder our book Structure and Spark (and get bonuses!)The First Six Weeks of School bookThe Art of GatheringFirst Day Wish GiftJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 251. 5 Classroom Management Tricks That Do the Work for YouEpisode 177. Help Your Class Kick Bad Habits with These 5 Classroom Management QuestionsEpisode 158. Back-to-School Classroom Management: Are You Working Smarter or Harder?Episode 143. The Easiest Back to School TipEpisode 154. 5 Steps for Classroom Procedure Success
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  277. Can't Miss Classic: 10 Questions That Make Your Classroom Procedures Actually Work 06.08.2026 22dk

  Ever wonder why some classroom procedures seem to run effortlessly while others constantly need reminders? In this replay episode, we're sharing how a few simple guiding questions can help you plan classroom procedures that actually work...for both you and your students! We'll walk you through 10 benefits of thinking through your routines ahead of time, from preventing common classroom challenges to creating more efficient systems that make the entire school year run more smoothly!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/planning-classroom-procedures/Resources:Classroom Procedures and Routines Planning Guide and ChecklistSun Shade Umbrella for CarPre-order our book: Structure and SparkJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 149, Go Time: 10 Things to Do After You Get Your Class ListEpisode 146, Never Pick up Another Stray Crayon: Why We Love Guided DiscoveryEpisode 134, The 10 Stages of Teacher Summer BreakEpisode 89, Hallway Behavior Management: 4 Essential Plans for Improving Hallway Classroom ManagementEpisode 75, Classroom Procedures and Expectations: How they Differ and How to Teach ThemEpisode 18, Procedures for Success!
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  276. The Real Reason Teachers Are Exhausted in August 03.08.2026 28dk

  Back-to-school exhaustion isn't just about long hours or a heavy workload! In this episode, we explore the surprising reason behind back-to-school fatigue and explain how a lack of automaticity creates extra mental strain. We also share practical systems that help you build external structure, reduce decision fatigue, and free up more of your energy to focus on connecting with your students during those critical first weeks of school.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-exhaustion/Resources:Preorder our book Structure and Spark (and get bonuses!)The Smallest of Joys by Diane ShifferWhen Gavin Met Stacey by James Corden and Ruth Jones Travel tissuesMildlinersTell Try Tally Talk SlidesProcedures & Routines Planning Guide and ChecklistJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 77. 3 Reasons Why a First Day of School Script Will Save Your SanityEpisode 144. How to Plug-And-Play Your First Day of School PlansEpisode 215. Here’s EXACTLY What to Do in the First 20 Minutes on the First Day of SchoolEpisode 143. The Easiest Back to School TipEpisode 270. The Smart Way to Tackle Your Back to School To-Do ListEpisode 154. 5 Steps for Classroom Procedure Success
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  275. Can't Miss Classic: The Most Important Back-to-School Prep Teachers Usually Forget 30.07.2026 25dk

  This week we're replaying one of our favorite back-to-school episodes because it's a reminder every teacher needs: don't just prepare your classroom, prepare yourself. We're sharing simple, practical ways to create a softer landing into the school year by setting up your home life, supporting your teaching self, and planning for rest and recovery before the first day even begins. If back-to-school is starting to feel overwhelming, this conversation will help you protect your energy, care for your future self, and head into the new school year with more calm and confidence!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/the-most-important-back-to-school-prep-no-one-talks-about/Resources:Procedures and Routines Planning Guide and ChecklistsBack to School Readiness ChecklistsLMNT – get a FREE sample pack with your purchase!Tamed Wild door hinge magnetsPreorder our book: Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes:Episode 199, Time, Tech, & Tasks: The 3 Boundaries That Save Teacher SummersEpisode 201, 20 Easy Back-to-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do From the CouchEpisode 203, 6 Teacher Traps We’re Saying No to This Back-to-School SeasonEpisode 205, Use This One-Hour Teacher Trick to Start the School Year Calm and ReadyEpisode 207, No Class List? No Problem – Here’s What to Prep While You Wait
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  274. The Overwhelm Buster: 3 Steps to Beat Back-to-School Stress 27.07.2026 26dk

  We’ve learned the hard way that panic-prepping for back-to-school season isn’t the answer. It can leave teachers feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and still unprepared. In today’s episode, we introduce our simple three-step Overwhelm Buster to help you take back control! Join us as we talk through practical ways to calm your nervous system, prioritize the tasks that matter most, and create a realistic plan so you can start the school year feeling calmer, more confident, and ready for your students.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-stress-2/Resources:Grandma Gatewood’s Walk by Ben MontgomeryPiles card gamePreorder our book: Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 143. The Easiest Back to School TipEpisode 270. The Smart Way to Tackle Your Back to School To-Do ListEpisode 194. Want a Smoother Back to School? Do These 5 Things NowEpisode 154. 5 Steps for Classroom Procedure SuccessEpisode 201. 20 Easy Back-To-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do from the Couch
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  272. Your Free Backstage Pass to Teacher Summer Talks 13.07.2026 30dk

  In this special episode, we share a sneak peek at our upcoming Teacher Summer Talks Summit with quick, practical tips from eight expert educators! From writing instruction and math routines to classroom management and teacher well-being, you'll walk away with fresh ideas to help you prepare for the new school year. We also share one of our favorite productivity strategies for making back-to-school prep more effective by managing your energy instead of your time.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/free-teacher-summit/Resources:Register for Teacher Summer Talks!Preorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyConnect With the Speakers on Instagram:Jessica: @ideasbyjiveyShelby: @littlejusticeleadersLeigh: @appliciousteacherGreg: @mrelementarymathMarcy: @saddleupfor2ndgradeJen: @strategicclassroomKelsey: @educateandrejuvenateJacey: @jaceypulverschankRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 241. What Smart Teachers Do Before a PD Event (So It Actually Sticks)Episode 112. 5 Podcasts for Elementary Teachers That We Know You’ll Love!Episode 71. The Easy Way Teachers Can Learn This Summer: 10 PD Books We LoveEpisode 16. Easy Summer PD
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  271. Can't Miss Classic: The 6 Lists That Tell You If You're Really Ready for August 09.07.2026 22dk

  Back-to-school prep doesn't have to feel like an endless, overwhelming to-do list! In this replay episode, we're sharing the six areas we believe every teacher needs to have ready before the first day of school so you can head back feeling calm and confident instead of overwhelmed. We walk through practical tips for preparing your classroom, supplies, procedures, welcome plans, lessons, and even yourself, so you can focus on what matters most and start the school year with less stress and more confidence.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/are-you-ready-for-the-school-year/Resources:Get your FREE ticket to Teacher Summer Talks!Back to School Readiness PlanEnd of Year Bulletin Board ActivityProcedures & Routines Planning Guide and ChecklistClassroom Procedures & Routines Editable SlidesGuided Discovery Back to School Bundle PackBack to School Pattern Block Mats for the First Day of SchoolFirst Day of School Editable GuideEnd of Year Road Map FreebieThe Rom-Commers by Katherine Center@pieladybooks on InstagramPre-order our book: Structure and SparkJoin the Teacher Approved Club!Connect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.Shop our teacher-approved resources.Join our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple Podcasts.Leave a comment or rating on Spotify.Related Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 73, 4 Reasons Why Affirming Students Is The Most Important Goal for Back to SchoolEpisode 75, Classroom Procedures and Expectations: How they Differ and How to Teach ThemEpisode 77, 3 Reasons Why a First Day of School Script Will Save Your SanityEpisode 78, Teacher Approved Tips: The Best First Day Arrival Activity and Pre-Writing AssessmentsEpisode 83, Classroom Setup Tips For Success: 8 Guiding Questions for Designing Your SpaceEpisode 134, The 10 Stages of Teacher Summer BreakEpisode 137, 3 Helpful Tips for Setting up Your Classroom Library
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  270. The Smart Way to Tackle Your Back to School To-Do List 06.07.2026 26dk

  If your back-to-school overwhelm is ramping up, this episode will help calm the stress and tackle those to-do lists. We share a simple framework for prioritizing your endless tasks based on four essential student needs: safety, belonging, competence, and growth. We share why routines and procedures matter so much, how to help students feel welcomed and capable, and why focusing on the right tasks first creates a smoother start to the year. If you’re feeling pulled in a hundred directions, this episode will help you focus on the right priorities to build a classroom that is safe, connected, and ready for meaningful learning!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-checklist/Resources:Get your FREE ticket to Teacher Summer Talks!Procedures and Routines Planning GuideTell Try Tally Talk slidesOur Perfect StormSuction cup dish brush holderPreorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 201. 20 Easy Back-To-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do from the CouchEpisode 143. The Easiest Back to School TipEpisode 154. 5 Steps for Classroom Procedure SuccessEpisode 219. How to Build a Classroom Community That Lasts All YearEpisode 146. Never Pick up Another Stray Crayon: Why We Love Guided Discovery
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  269. Can't Miss Classic: The Power Hour Trick That Beats Back-to-School Panic 02.07.2026 24dk

  Summer can cause teachers to either put off school prep and then panic when August arrives, or miss out on a restful summer break because they’re too focused on work. In this episode, we’re revisiting a simple, sustainable approach to back-to-school preparation that helps you feel ready without sacrificing your summer. We walk you through our six-step "Teacher Power Hour" system, showing you how to identify meaningful priorities, focus on high-impact tasks, protect your prep time, and avoid the burnout that comes from panic planning. We offer practical strategies for choosing the right back-to-school tasks, protecting valuable rest, and creating routines that make preparation feel calm, intentional, and manageable.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-prep/Resources:Grab your FREE ticket to Teacher Summer Talks 2026!BTS Success CourseEditable Classroom Seating Chart Maker ToolTell, Try, Tally, Talk SlidesBack to School Readiness ChecklistsZero Days by Ruth WarePodcast: Happier with Gretchen RubinCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 55. Thriving as a Teacher: One Helpful StrategyEpisode 87. 4 Important Ways to Build Classroom Community At Back to SchoolEpisode 201. 20 Easy Back-to-School Teacher Tasks You Can Totally Do From the CouchEpisode 203. 6 Teacher Traps We’re Saying No to This Back to School SeasonMentioned in this episode:Set up back-to-school the right way, so the year doesn't come undone by October. Get your free ticket: https://secondstorywindow.net/summertalks
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  268. Why You Should Add More Whimsy to Your Teacher Summer 29.06.2026 23dk

  Recovery is about more than just rest, so in this episode we’re making the case for adding a little whimsy to your summer. We share how playfulness can help teachers reconnect with themselves, the science behind why positive emotions matter, and simple ways to create a summer that feels more memorable, meaningful, and fun. Give yourself permission to enjoy things simply because they bring you joy!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-ideas/Resources:Diaper CaddyQ-Less gameSticker By Number bookWord Search MysteryPlant magnetsPaint markersPreorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 262. Crashing Isn't Resting: The Summer Teacher Mistake to Skip This YearEpisode 263. Can't Miss Classic: Stop Letting Guilt and Panic Steal Your Teacher SummerEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like WorkEpisode 14. Best Summer Ever
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  267. Can't Miss Classic: 20 Teacher TV Tasks for Your Couch Productivity Era 25.06.2026 22dk

  Are you enjoying your summer lounge time but feel that itch to get ahead for back-to-school? We’re revisiting 20 simple “TV tasks” that teachers can tackle from the comfort of the couch while still protecting their summer rest and recovery. We talk about the importance of setting boundaries around summer work, creating both a summer no list and a summer yes list, and finding ways to make back-to-school prep feel less overwhelming. While it’s important to remember that rest is productive on its own, these simple tasks will help you enjoy your downtime while making the start of the school just a bit easier!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-prep-tasks/Resources:Freebie: End of Year RoadmapReadiness Checklists Wishing Star Printable@Teacherpodcastrecs on InstagramThe Holiday Headstart PodcastSeed ProbioticHero SunscreenCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn’t Feel Like WorkEpisode 199. Time, Tech, & Tasks: The 3 Boundaries That Save Teacher Summers
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  266. 7 Low-Effort Ways to Get Ahead, Whenever You Feel Like It 22.06.2026 26dk

  In this episode, we revisit one of our favorite summer philosophies: recovery and readiness. To focus on the ‘readiness’ side of things, we share seven simple tasks that take 10 minutes or less but can help you feel more prepared for the new school year without turning your summer into a work project. From choosing your first-day outfit and first read-aloud to updating your emergency kit and collecting community-building activities, these small actions can prevent last-minute stress and help you ease into back-to-school season with greater confidence and peace of mind.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-prep-for-teachers/Resources:How to use Canva email templatesHow to create an email signature in CanvaKid friendly pop playlistCalming piano playlistHulken bag largeHulken bag smallClevermade Hulken knock off (read reviews!)Preorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 262. Crashing Isn't Resting: The Summer Teacher Mistake to Skip This YearEpisode 263. Can't Miss Classic: Stop Letting Guilt and Panic Steal Your Teacher SummerEpisode 209. The Most Important Back-To-School Prep No One Talks AboutEpisode 27. Your One Word Theme for The Year