Teacher Approved: Elementary Teacher Tips & Strategies

Heidi and Emily, Elementary School Teacher and Resource Designer
  • 4.9 (155)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Do you ever feel like there’s just not enough time in the day to be the kind of teacher you really want to be? We know that feeling and we’re here to help! Each week on The Teacher Approved podcast, we discuss how to be the teacher you dream of being by elevating what matters and simplifying the rest. Join co-hosts Emily and Heidi of Second Story Window as they share research-based and teacher-approved strategies you can count on to make your teaching more efficient and effective than ever before.  Topics include classroom management, routines for the elementary school classroom, planning, student-teacher relationships, teacher organization hacks, student engagement, classroom management, and more. Whether you’re a new teacher seeking guidance or a seasoned educator looking for fresh ideas, the Teacher Approved podcast is your guide to fostering a thriving elementary classroom! For more teacher approved tips and resources, head to www.secondstorywindow.net and follow along on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.

  1. 10h ago

    274. The Overwhelm Buster: 3 Steps to Beat Back-to-School Stress

    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 Spotify Related 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

  2. Jul 16

    273. Can't Miss Classic: The Reason Most Teacher PD Ideas Never Make It to Your Classroom

    Have you ever left a conference or PD full of inspiration... only to realize you never actually used any of those great ideas? In this replay episode, we’re sharing a simple framework to help you get the most out of Teacher Summer Talks, from choosing the sessions that fit your biggest needs to capturing ideas, taking meaningful notes, and actually putting what you learn into action. If you’re joining us for Teacher Summer Talks, this episode will help you make the most of every session and walk away with strategies you’ll actually use in your classroom. Grab your free ticket and join us! Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-pd-tips/ Resources: Register for Teacher Summer Talks!Pre-order our book: Structure and SparkGood StoreSun Basin Wooden Wick Candle Monochrome Coloring BookJoin 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 71, The Easy Way Teachers Can Learn This Summer: 10 PD Books We LoveEpisode 236, Your Tired Teacher Guide to January Prep From Your CouchEpisode 240, 7 Quick Teacher Approved Tips For a Better January

  3. Jul 13

    272. Your Free Backstage Pass to Teacher Summer Talks

    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 Spotify Connect With the Speakers on Instagram: Jessica: @ideasbyjiveyShelby: @littlejusticeleadersLeigh: @appliciousteacherGreg: @mrelementarymathMarcy: @saddleupfor2ndgradeJen: @strategicclassroomKelsey: @educateandrejuvenateJacey: @jaceypulverschank Related 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

  4. Jul 9

    271. Can't Miss Classic: The 6 Lists That Tell You If You're Really Ready for August

    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

  5. Jul 6

    270. The Smart Way to Tackle Your Back to School To-Do List

    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 Spotify Related 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

  6. Jul 2

    269. Can't Miss Classic: The Power Hour Trick That Beats Back-to-School Panic

    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 Spotify Related 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 Season Mentioned 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

  7. Jun 29

    268. Why You Should Add More Whimsy to Your Teacher Summer

    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 Spotify Related 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

  8. Jun 25

    267. Can't Miss Classic: 20 Teacher TV Tasks for Your Couch Productivity Era

    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 Spotify Related 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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Do you ever feel like there’s just not enough time in the day to be the kind of teacher you really want to be? We know that feeling and we’re here to help! Each week on The Teacher Approved podcast, we discuss how to be the teacher you dream of being by elevating what matters and simplifying the rest. Join co-hosts Emily and Heidi of Second Story Window as they share research-based and teacher-approved strategies you can count on to make your teaching more efficient and effective than ever before.  Topics include classroom management, routines for the elementary school classroom, planning, student-teacher relationships, teacher organization hacks, student engagement, classroom management, and more. Whether you’re a new teacher seeking guidance or a seasoned educator looking for fresh ideas, the Teacher Approved podcast is your guide to fostering a thriving elementary classroom! For more teacher approved tips and resources, head to www.secondstorywindow.net and follow along on Instagram @2ndstorywindow.

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