I have found the best way to engage learners is to make it real for them. The five teaching strategies listed below offer varying levels of independence and exploration for kids. And really, it makes teaching so much more fun to see kids fired up as they make…

One year I had a student teacher who was a former lawyer and wanted to leave law to become a classroom teacher. ... I'll let that sink in for a moment. ... OK... moving on. I had just graded an abysmal group of math papers where it felt like I was gradi…

Classroom games are a powerful resource in my teacher toolbox. I begin every new year from day one teaching at least one new game. As opportunities present themselves, I'll continue to add additional games to our repertoire. Before long, I have built a wo…

The first day of school is the start of something good! Fresh faces ready to learn.  New school supplies just itching to find their new homes in desks and cupboards. A clean start for everyone! We only get one chance to make a first impression with a new gr…

I love the sounds and smells of a new school year. Desks are clean, supplies are fresh and the pencil sharpener actually works!  Kids may be slightly uncertain about what's to come, but are ready for a new adventure. My back-to-school feelings of Utopia …

One of the easiest ways to get kids focused on their learning is to let them move. They're going to find ways to do it anyway, so why not make it part of a daily routine? Research shows several health benefits tied to movement. In addition to improvem…