Rainbow Skies for Teachers

Ashleigh and Alisha
  • 5.0 (3)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hey there, amazing teachers—this podcast is for YOU! Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or you're a seasoned educator seeking inspiration, Rainbow Skies for Teachers is here to help you thrive in and out of the classroom. We’re Ashleigh and Alisha, your enthusiastic hosts and co-founders of Rainbow Sky Creations. With 20+ years of combined experience in primary education, we’re dedicated to sharing  practical advice, supercharged tips, and game-changing strategies to help you succeed as a teacher.  Whether it’s crafting engaging  lessons or perfecting your  classroom management, we’ve got your back. We're on a mission to lead an education revolution; one inspired teacher at a time…. There are rainbows ahead, and together, we're unstoppable! You can follow us on Instagram or TikTok @rainbowskycreationsTo  discover more helpful tips + tricks for teachers, head to http://www.rainbowskycreations.com

  1. 2D AGO

    126. Devices Don’t Fix Schools - Intentional Technology Integration Does

    In this episode, Alisha sits down with Robby Cobbs, an international educator and the founder of Tech My School, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting underfunded schools in Puerto Rico through thoughtful technology integration and teacher training. Robby shares his personal journey from growing up with limited resources, to teaching around the world, and eventually settling in Puerto Rico, where he witnessed firsthand the deep educational inequities facing local schools. What began as donating computers to a single school grew into a scalable nonprofit model supporting educators, students, and school leaders. What We Cover in This Episode: Robby’s path from international teaching to founding Tech My SchoolWhy access to technology alone isn’t enoughThe difference between EdTech (technology supporting instruction) and TechEd (student skill-building)How AI can support teachers without replacing human connectionThe importance of balancing digital tools with hands-on learningBuilding trust with educators, parents, and school communitiesKey Takeaways Technology works best when paired with strong relationships and clear educational goalsTeachers need ongoing support and training - not just new devicesAI can be a powerful planning and reflection tool when used responsiblyStudent learning improves when technology is intentional, balanced, and culturally responsiveChange with technology doesn’t have to be scary and overwhelming. This conversation explores how technology can meaningfully enhance learning when it’s implemented with intention, balance, and trust. Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources Mentioned in this episode:  Tech My School – A nonprofit providing technology, training, and strategic planning to schools TechPlan Genie – An AI-powered tool that helps schools create, track, and refine strategic technology plans Connect with Robby on Instagram  Check out Robby’s book, Tech Centered, Learning Driven. APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON About Today’s Guest Robby is a life-long international educator who started Tech My School, an educational non-profit dedicated to serving underprivileged schools that has grown from a single school in 2021 to serving over 50 schools by the end of 2025.  In 2024, he authored his first book, "Tech Centered, Learning Driven" and in 2025 he developed his first piece of commercially available software called "Tech Plan Genie". Let's hear from you! Text us!

    1h 8m

  2. MAR 8

    125. Harmony Day Planning Made Easy: Meaningful Activities Without the Stress

    Harmony Week is such a special time in Australian classrooms… but let’s be honest, it can sneak up on us! In this episode,we chat all things Harmony Week and how to plan meaningful, inclusive lessons without adding to your already full plate. If you’ve ever wondered how to move beyond “wearing orange” and truly embed the message of inclusivity and kindness in your classroom, this episode is for you. We’re sharing simple strategies, ready-to-use ideas, book recommendations, and interactive activities that will help your students understand what Harmony Week is really about — and how they can live it every single day. What We Cover in This Episode: A series of lessons you could teach about Harmony Day and the themesPicture book recommendations2 reflective craft ideas that will look great hanging in your classroomA freebie to help spread the message of Harmony Day / Harmony WeekAAnd remember, these conversations don’t stop after one week. Harmony Week is the starting point, not the finish line. Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Harmony Day / Week Teaching slides (PowerPoint) 7 Picture Books to Celebrate Harmony Harmony Hands craft 3D Harmony Heart Freebie: Harmony Badges APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON Let's hear from you! Text us!

    16 min

  3. MAR 1

    124. What We Hate About Reading Groups

    Reading groups… we love the idea of them. But let’s be honest, sometimes they feel overwhelming, noisy, and just plain stressful. In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about the challenges teachers face during reading groups! If reading groups feel chaotic instead of calm in your classroom, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and rebuild with systems that actually work. We’re sharing practical strategies to help you feel organised, confident, and back in control, without adding more to your plate. What We Cover in This Episode: • The biggest frustrations teachers face during reading groups (and why you’re not alone) • How clear routines and expectations can completely transform your sessions • Why a consistent, predictable timetable reduces stress for you and your students • The power of starting with a “top five” set of independent activities • How a dress rehearsal can set your groups up for long-term success • Planning tips like batching, reusing resources, and using simple templates • Tools like The Hive platform to streamline your reading group organisation • A practical guide to help you transform your reading groups step by step Reading groups don’t have to feel chaotic. With the right systems, routines, and ready-to-go resources, they can become one of the most powerful parts of your literacy block. You don’t need more ideas - you need a foolproof system. Let’s work smarter, not harder, together! Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Transform your Reading Groups (course for teachers) The Hive - Use the code ASHLEIGH15 for a 15% discount Ready to print reading group activities for: KindergartenGrade 1-2Grade 3-4Grade 5-6*Note: These activities are included in Transform your Reading Groups APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON Let's hear from you! Text us!

    28 min

  4. FEB 22

    123. How To Manage Challenging Classroom Behaviours

    Today we welcome back occupational therapist, educator advocate, and all-round legend Dave Jereb to dive deep into understanding and responding to challenging classroom behaviours. Dave shares practical, teacher-friendly strategies to better connect with students, support regulation, and ultimately create more inclusive and calm classrooms. From quick connection anchors to brain-based regulation tools, Dave reminds us that meaningful change often starts with the simplest actions. In This Episode, We Cover: Why connection changes the brain—and what happens in just 10 secondsReframing “challenging behaviour” and what’s really going on beneath the surfaceA breakdown of Dave’s ABCIDEAS model for understanding student needs holisticallyPractical co-regulation tools teachers can implement immediatelyWhy supporting the adults who support the kids is essential for long-term successThe “Connected Caregiver Model” and what it looks like in actionUsing rhythm, breath, and music as tools for regulation and attentionMaking lessons meaningful by tapping into student interests“Everything is downstream from regulation and connection.” – Dave Jereb Key Takeaways: Connection comes first: A simple 10-second moment of eye-level, intentional connection can dramatically impact behaviour and learning readiness.Environment matters: You don’t need to “fix the child”—adjusting the activity or environment is often the fastest way to success.Behaviours are communication: Looking at what’s behind attention-seeking, oppositional, or sensitive behaviours helps us support rather than react.Support the supporters: Dave champions the idea that when we support teachers and caregivers, everyone wins.Whether you're just kicking off the school year in Australia or you're mid-term elsewhere in the world, this episode is packed with real-life examples, refreshing reframes, and game-changing strategies you can try today, especially with those students who can make or break the energy of your day. Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Check out Dave’s Book: Challenging the StoryDave’s Online Course: Challenging the Story of BehaviourOther courses offered by Move About OT linked hereConnect with Dave on InstagramSay G’Day on Spotify (Dave’s sister Genevieve Jereb) Episode 19 - Our first interview with Dave JerebAPPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON About Today’s Guest: Dave Jereb is a paediatric occupational therapist, author, and co-founder of MoveAbout Therapy Services. With over 20 years of experience, Dave is passionate about helping families and professionals rethink how we understand and respond to challenging Let's hear from you! Text us!

    46 min

  5. FEB 15

    122. Teacher Wellbeing & the Power of Saying No

    In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a topic that sits at the heart of our mission: teacher well-being. We’re unpacking the everyday challenges teachers face, like juggling too many tasks, feeling pressure to “do it all,” and navigating leadership expectations, while also offering practical, empowering strategies to help you protect your energy, set boundaries, and find your own rhythm. We talk honestly about breaking free from the “busy culture,” why multitasking is not your friend, and how small moments of joy can truly be game-changers in a teacher’s week. Key Takeaways: You don’t need to do it allBoundaries aren’t selfish; they’re essential for long-term impact.A notepad, a pause, or even a walk can help clear the clutter.Modelling wellbeing helps your students thrive too. Saying no today doesn’t mean saying no forever.Whether you're just starting out or deep into your teaching journey, this episode is your friendly reminder that your wellbeing matters, and you’re allowed to take care of it. Let’s work smarter, not harder, and build a teaching life that brings joy, balance, and longevity. Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 44: A conversation about Teacher Wellbeing with Amy Green Episode 106: Real Teacher Wellbeing with Daniela Falecki Teacher Self-care Journal APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON Let's hear from you! Text us!

    33 min

  6. FEB 8

    121. No More Math Meltdowns: Six Ways to Help Your Students Thrive

    Math shouldn't feel like a mystery or a battle, and this week, we’re breaking down the REAL reasons students struggle with maths and sharing practical solutions to help every learner thrive. From lack of hands-on learning to low confidence and everything in between, we talk about the six key reasons students find math tricky and offer evidence-based, heart-filled strategies to turn those struggles into success. If you've ever faced a room full of groans when you say, “Time for maths!”, this episode is for you. What We Chat About: The myth of “not having a maths brain” and how mindset makes all the differenceWhy hands-on learning isn’t just for early yearsHow to differentiate without creating 27 different lesson plansMaking explicit instruction powerful (not painful!)Supporting risk-taking and growing confidence in your studentsHelping students recognise what success in maths really looks likeWhy offering multiple learning modes helps every child access the curriculumOur go-to resources to make it happen (including a freebie and a PD course!)Whether you’re new to teaching or a seasoned educator, this conversation is full of practical tips and heartfelt encouragement to help you create maths lessons your students will actually look forward to. Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Free Guide: 6 Strategies to Boost Student Success in MathsTransform Your Maths Groups course – Learn the exact model Ash & Alisha useGrowth Mindset Mini Tags FreebieSkip Counting GamesAPPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON Let's hear from you! Text us!

    29 min

  7. FEB 1

    120. Easy Valentine’s Day Math Fun

    Valentine’s Day isn’t just about hearts and flowers, it’s a golden opportunity to weave kindness, connection, and curriculum into your classroom. In this episode,we are diving into creative, curriculum-aligned math activities with a Valentine’s Day twist that your students will LOVE (pun intended!). Whether you’re planning ahead or need something ready-to-go, we’re sharing engaging, low-prep ideas to bring the joy (and data!) into your lessons. What We Chat About: Why Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate kindness in the classroomEasy-to-implement Valentine themed maths activities:Number of the Day (Valentine-style!)Fractions & Decimals of the DayValentine’s Flip It GamesMaths Chatterboxes (Fortune Tellers)Deck-of-cards / UNO card activities for sorting and operationsHow these activities double as informal assessments (hello, teacher win!)Freebies and no-laminating-required resourcesWhether you’re a Valentine’s superfan or a quiet kindness crusader, these activities will have your students engaged and learning without even realising it. Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Number of the Day (Valentine-style!)Fractions & Decimals of the DayValentine’s Flip It GamesMaths Chatterboxes (Fortune Tellers) for Number Bonds and MultiplicationFREE UNO card number sorts APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON Let's hear from you! Text us!

    17 min

  8. JAN 25

    119. Our Favourite Freebies to Set 2026 Up for Success

    Get ready to kick off 2026 with a rainbow of inspiration! In this episode, we are diving into our top 3 favourite free resources (each!) that you can download and use right now in your classroom. From boosting student confidence to simplifying math lessons and streamlining assessment, these tried-and-tested freebies are classroom game-changers. Whether you're teaching composite classes, looking for quick wins, or want to inject a little more joy into your everyday routines, there’s something here for you. The best part? Every resource mentioned is completely free and teacher-loved! What We Cover: Hey You! compliment cards – A simple way to build student confidence and connectionFuture World Changers display – A class community favourite with photo funMultiplication Flip It Games – Engaging maths games using playing cardsNumber of the Day routines – Your go-to for warm-ups, relief days or fast finisher tasksExit Tickets – Quick and easy student check-ins that inform your teachingUNO taster activities – Test out our famous UNO games for yourself with this limited time freebieYou’ll walk away with fresh ideas to use immediately with these FREE and classroom-ready resources (they are all linked below). Rainbows ahead, Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episode: Hey You! compliment cards Future World Changers display Multiplication Flip It Games Number of the Day 2-digit and Number of the Day 3-digitExit TicketsUNO taster activities + workshop APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY  | AMAZON Let's hear from you! Text us!

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hey there, amazing teachers—this podcast is for YOU! Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or you're a seasoned educator seeking inspiration, Rainbow Skies for Teachers is here to help you thrive in and out of the classroom. We’re Ashleigh and Alisha, your enthusiastic hosts and co-founders of Rainbow Sky Creations. With 20+ years of combined experience in primary education, we’re dedicated to sharing  practical advice, supercharged tips, and game-changing strategies to help you succeed as a teacher.  Whether it’s crafting engaging  lessons or perfecting your  classroom management, we’ve got your back. We're on a mission to lead an education revolution; one inspired teacher at a time…. There are rainbows ahead, and together, we're unstoppable! You can follow us on Instagram or TikTok @rainbowskycreationsTo  discover more helpful tips + tricks for teachers, head to http://www.rainbowskycreations.com

Information

  • Creator
    Ashleigh and Alisha
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    129
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Rainbow Skies for Teachers
  • Show Website
    Rainbow Skies for Teachers

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