Happy Teaching

The Kindergarten Connection
  • 4.4 (14)
  • EDUCATION FOR KIDS

Happy Teaching with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!  Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.  Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 37: How to Re-engage Students with Classroom Materials

    In this episode, Alex shares a simple strategy that delivers big results: how to re-engage students with materials they’re ignoring, without buying anything new. If you’ve ever set up a center you were excited about, only to watch students completely pass it by, this episode is for you. Sometimes the fix isn’t replacing the activity — it’s rethinking how it’s presented. ✨ You’ll Hear: • Why rotation is one of the easiest ways to make materials feel “new” again • How presentation impacts whether students even notice a center • Why clear tubs, trays, and shelf placement matter more than you think • How changing toy pairings (animals + castle, dinosaurs + blocks) can instantly boost engagement • Simple ways to refresh paper-based centers with new writing tools 💡 This episode is a reminder that small shifts like moving a shelf, swapping a bin, or adding colored pencils can create a big return on your time and energy. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Check out the related blog post 👉 Simple Tip to Re-Engage Students with Classroom Materials Looking for ready-to-use centers that are easy to rotate and refresh? Inside the Print and Play Club, you’ll find math centers, literacy activities, and low-prep options that make rotation simple. Not a member yet? Click here to join the club! 📞 Have a center refresh idea that worked for you? Send a DM or tag @thekindergartenconnection — we love sharing teacher wins! The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    7 min

  2. FEB 9

    Episode 36: Easy Ways to Add Music/Movement to Circle Time

    In this episode, Alex shares how to make circle time more engaging, effective, and developmentally appropriate — without adding more to your plate. If you’ve ever felt like your students just can’t sit still or that you’re constantly relying on brain breaks to keep things moving, this one’s for you. ✨ You’ll Hear: • Why shorter circle times actually lead to better focus and fewer behaviors • How to use songs and chants to guide transitions and boost participation • Simple ways to add movement to read-alouds and group activities • Why offering flexible sitting choices can reduce squirming and support focus 💡 You’ll also learn why removing some elements of circle time might be the key to helping everything run more smoothly. 🔗 Mentioned in this Episode: Check out this article on the blog 👉Offering Seating Options Beyond “Criss Cross Applesauce”Related podcast episode 👉Let’s Talk About “No More Criss Cross Applesauce”Grab this FREE Shamrock Subitizing Pocket Chart Game to try in your classroom!Get Circle Time Chants and Activities HERE!Print and Play Club Members: 🎶 Head to your PLAYlist for ready-to-use circle time songs and monthly themed chants 🎉 Find tons of engaging pocket chart chants and activities to get kids moving, participating, and learning in fun, rhythmic ways 🙌 Download the editable Circle Time Seating Options Poster — a customizable visual support to teach sitting choices with clarity 📍 Not a member yet? Click here to join the club! 📣 Let us know what YOU love for music and movement during circle time! Tag @thekindergartenconnection on Instagram with your favorite chant, transition, or brain break — you might inspire another teacher, too! The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    10 min

  3. FEB 1

    Episode 35: Valentine’s Day in Pre-K & Kindergarten- What Really Matters

    Valentine’s Day in the early childhood classroom can feel like a whirlwind, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming or over the top. In this short and sweet episode, we’re talking about what really matters when it comes to celebrating Valentine’s Day in Pre-K and Kindergarten. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: A gentle reminder that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfectWhy simplicity and consistency are key in classroom celebrationsHow to keep things meaningful and fun without adding stressWhat your students will actually remember about this day (hint: it’s not the crafts)This quick listen will leave you feeling grounded and ready to enjoy the holiday with your little learners without the pressure. ⭐ ⭐ Join the Print and Play Club to access all of our Valentine's Day activities included in the membership.  You can also check out our Valentine's Day resources on the blog including book lists, activities, and much more. 💝 The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    9 min

  4. JAN 25

    Episode 34: When a Student Refuses to Work - Try This!

    In this episode, we’re tackling a challenge every early childhood teacher faces: what to do when a student refuses to work. Whether it’s ignoring directions, sitting with arms crossed, or simply saying “no,” these moments can be tricky and emotionally draining. But there’s a way through that builds connection and cooperation. You’ll learn: Why refusal might be happening (hint: it’s not always defiance!)What to say and do in the moment to shift power strugglesA must-try phrase that opens the door to student choice and cooperationHow to keep your boundaries while staying calm and supportive💡 This episode is packed with strategies you can use right away, especially if you've ever felt stuck or unsure of how to respond. 🧠 Want to go deeper? Check out the related blog post: 👉 Must-Try Tip for When a Student Refuses to Work Want more classroom management support and resources?  Join the Print and Play Club now!  The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    11 min

  5. JAN 18

    Episode 33: Let’s Talk Small Groups: Keeping It Simple in Pre-K & Kindergarten

    Small groups can feel like one of the hardest parts of the day to manage, but they don’t have to be! In this episode, Alex breaks down how to keep small group time simple, doable, and impactful in a Pre-K or Kindergarten classroom. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to make your groups more consistent, this episode offers realistic tips and encouragement to help you feel more confident. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why small group time can feel overwhelming and how to ease that pressureSimple ways to get started with small groups (even if you only have 10 minutes!)Tips for managing the rest of the class while you're working with a groupWhat to do when things don’t go as plannedEncouragement to start small and build as you go🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 🖨️ Print and Play Club members don’t forget to grab:Ready-to-go small group activities for literacy and mathCenter rotation tools and management visualsPlanning templates to keep your groups organized💌 Want more weekly support? Join the Teacher Tuesday email listNot a member yet? Join here The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    8 min

  6. JAN 11

    Episode #32: Tackling Parent Teacher Conferences

    In this episode, we’re diving into student-led conferences. Yes, even in Pre-K and Kindergarten! Alex walks you through how these conferences can look in early childhood settings, and how to keep the process simple, meaningful, and manageable. If the idea of student-led conferences has ever felt intimidating or “too much” for young learners, this episode will change your mind. ✨ What You’ll Hear: What a student-led conference actually looks like in a Pre-K or Kindergarten classroomWhy it doesn’t have to be complicated (and how to keep it age-appropriate)The power of students sharing their learning in their own wordsHow this approach strengthens home-school connections and builds student confidenceEncouragement to start small and adjust based on what works for you 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Related Blog Post: Student Led Conferences in Kindergarten Join the Print and Play Club filled with classroom management, resources, and support. Join here if you're not a member already! 💌 Grab your free weekly teaching pep talk with our Teacher Tuesday emailsThe Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    13 min

  7. JAN 4

    Episode 31: Mid-Year Motivation: A Pep Talk for Teachers

    Feeling a little worn down halfway through the school year? You’re not alone. In this encouraging mid-year check-in, Alex shares a heartfelt pep talk to remind you of the incredible impact you’re making every single day. Whether you're in a winter slump or just needing a little boost, this quick episode is here to lift you up and help you reset with purpose and perspective. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why mid-year burnout is real and totally normalHow to give yourself permission to slow down and reflectEncouragement to celebrate how far you've come, not just what’s aheadA reminder that you are the constant in your students’ days and that matters more than you knowA few gentle prompts to help you reconnect with your “why”🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:  ❤️ Print and Play Club: Looking for ways to bring more ease into your teaching this semester? PPC members don’t forget to explore the monthly planning guides, low-prep centers, and classroom management tools ready for you inside the club. Not a member yet? Join Here. ✉️ Weekly Pep Talks: Get more encouragement in your inbox every Tuesday with our Teacher Tuesday emails. Not on the list yet? Join here! The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    9 min

  8. 12/28/2025

    Episode 30: 5 Routines to Review After Winter Break

    Returning from winter break can feel like hitting reset on your classroom routines. In this episode, Alex shares five essential routines that are worth reviewing to help your students settle back into the rhythm of learning. Whether you’re in Pre-K, TK, or Kindergarten, these simple but powerful routines will support smoother transitions, stronger classroom management, and a calmer, more connected start to the new year. ✨ What You’ll Hear: Why winter break often brings a dip in routines and how to bounce back with confidence5 specific routines to revisit, including: Morning arrival expectationsWhole-group carpet timeVoice level remindersClean-up transitionsLining up and hallway behaviorHow to review routines in a fun, non-punitive wayEncouragement that you're not starting over—just reinforcing what students already know 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 📝 Related Blog Post: 5 Classroom Routines to Review After Winter Break🖨️ Print and Play Club: Members, don’t forget to grab your routine visual tools, transition tips, and behavior supports inside the club to make re-teaching routines simple and stress-free! ❤️ Not a member yet? Request your invite and get access to resources designed to support real teachers and real classrooms all year long. The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

    9 min
See All (38)

Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Happy Teaching with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!  Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.  Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy! ... Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com

Information

  • Creator
    The Kindergarten Connection
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Happy Teaching
  • Show Website
    Happy Teaching

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