6 Back to School Teaching Tips for Elementary Educators
Drawing inspiration from our August Happy Hour with Jed Dearybury in the STEM Teachers Club, here are some practical tips for elementary educators to ensure an engaging classroom at the start of the school year.
The start of a new school year brings with it a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, anticipation, and often, a touch of nervousness. For teachers, it's a chance to recreate their spaces, introduce fresh teaching methodologies, and provide students with an atmosphere that fosters both learning and growth.
1. Transform Old Into New
Top 6 Back to School Teaching Tips by Carly and Adam
The theme of transforming the old into something new can be incredibly motivating. As educators, we might have lesson plans or teaching methods that worked brilliantly in the past.
With a new set of students, each old lesson can feel fresh and new again. You can change it up, and adapt it to your new friends.
2. Make it Personal
Top 6 Back to School Teaching Tips by Carly and Adam
Remember, it's not just about the academic content. Share personal stories, experiences, or even challenges that align with the theme or subject you're teaching. Your enthusiasm towards an activity can be contagious.
We often say, “It starts with us.” As educators, we are the cheerleaders of learning. We need to be modeling growth mindset and a love for learning for our students.
3. Fear is Normal, Embrace It
Top 6 Back to School Teaching Tips by Carly and Adam
Treading into the unfamiliar can be daunting. As teachers, we get the first day jitters.
Acknowledge it, face it, and remember that every new endeavor starts with stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Your new students offer an opportunity for new and meaningful learning experiences.
4. Reuse and Repurpose
Top 6 Back to School Teaching Tips by Carly and Adam
Finding beauty in old things and giving them a new purpose can be an exciting classroom project. Old items can be revamped into classroom decor, teaching aids, or even project materials.
By showing students how something old can be made new, you're teaching them valuable lessons about sustainability, creativity, and the joy of rediscovery.
5. Build Community
Top 6 Back to School Teaching Tips by Carly and Adam
Building a tight-knit classroom community is invaluable. By fostering a sense of belonging, students are more likely to participate, engage, and collaborate.
Encourage sharing, celebrate accomplishments (no matter how small), and ensure everyone feels heard and valued. Find ways to incorporate play in your classroom to build shared experiences of joy.
And you, as a teacher, need community too. It’s why we created the Elementary STEM Teachers Club.
6. Embrace Change.
Top 6 Back to School Teaching Tips by Carly and Adam
Education, much like life, is not static. Embrace the changes and new challenges that each school year brings. The beauty of teaching is that every year, every semester, and every class can feel new and invigorating. By being adaptable, educators can offer their students a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
You have the power to shape young minds and leave lasting impressions. By merging the old with the new, creating personal connections, and fostering a sense of community, you can ensure an engaging, dynamic, and memorable school year for all our students.
Cheers to a fresh start and happy teaching!
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