What if raising a reader didn't require battles, bribes, or boredom? What if the secret wasn't about forcing more reading minutes, but about transforming how your child feels about books?

This eye-opening episode reveals three deceptively simple daily habits that turn reluctant readers into book lovers. As both an experienced teacher and parent, I share research-backed strategies that make books a natural, joyful part of children's lives rather than another task to check off their to-do list. The approach focuses on creating environments and rituals that foster a love of reading, helping children develop lasting...

What if the pages of a book could literally come to life in a child's hands? That's the transformative power of combining makerspace activities with reading—a strategy that's changing how kids experience stories.

When I first became a school media specialist, I inherited a neglected library where students dreaded their visits. Books were piled high, the space was uninviting, and enthusiasm for reading was non-existent. My goal wasn't just to get kids reading; it was to make them beg to come to the library. The solution? Letting them play. By introducing Legos, building materials, and creative su...

Does your active child struggle to sit still during reading time? You're not alone. That constant fidgeting, restlessness, and apparent disinterest in books isn't a sign they don't like reading—it's their body telling you they need to move to learn effectively.

I share the story of my son Jackson, who walked at nine months and was physically advanced but struggled with traditional sit-still activities like reading. Many children—especially those with ADHD or sensory needs—process information better when movement is incorporated into learning. Science confirms what many parents observe: physical activity activates brain functions that improv...

Reading doesn't have to be a battleground. After a long hiatus, I'm back with a critical message for parents and educators alike: we may be unknowingly turning kids away from books through three common mistakes.

The first mistake is forcing children to read only "just-right" books. When kids can only access books at their exact reading level, reading becomes a constant test rather than a joyful experience. The solution? A 60-40 approach where most reading time is spent with books they genuinely love, with the remainder dedicated to skill-building. Let that dinosaur-obsessed child explore paleontology books, even...

'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread some holiday cheer than with a good old-fashioned Christmas story? 

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix, and if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would...

Forget about stuffing yourself with mashed potatoes and green bean casserole for a moment because we're going on a literary feast!

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix, and if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be rea...

Hi, I'm Trina Deboree from Trina Deboree Teaching and Learning and the podcast One Tired Teacher. I create engaging content for elementary teachers focusing on Science, reading comprehension, STEM, and Makerspace. My passion lies in giving teachers back a fraction of their time so they can put first things first. My ultimate goal is to offer creative content that helps teachers inspire students to learn, dream, think, and wonder.

I will help you move from drudgery teaching, where you feel like you are going against your core values and teacher soul, to an explosion of teaching, where...

Picture this: a sanctuary known as the STEM Story Station, where scientific tales unfold not just in words but in actions, experiments, and hands-on discoveries. Our account commences with an open invitation, a warm, collective greeting that reverberates through the expansive halls of makerspaces, whispering of an unparalleled adventure just waiting to be unfurled. 

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the...

Are you tired of seeing your students bored out of their minds in traditional classrooms where their common interests are ignored? Do you want to unleash their creativity and foster a love for hands-on learning? 

Well, my friend, it's time to jump on the makerspace bandwagon! But hold on, before you start picturing an expensive high-tech wonderland, let me tell you a secret: creating a meaningful makerspace doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, with just a shoestring budget and some clever ideas, you can transform your school or classroom into a h...

I am calling all educators with the desire to inspire young minds through the wonders of science, technology, engineering, math, and even literacy!

I've got a treat for you today - three mind-blowingly simple STEM activities that can be done in just 40 minutes. There is no need for complicated equipment or advanced knowledge; these activities are so easy even a hamster could do them (well, almost). Get ready to unleash the mad scientist within, and watch your student's eyes light up with curiosity and excitement. Welcome to the world of hassle-free...

Are you tired of the same old boring classroom activities? 

Well, it's time to break out the toolboxes and prepare for hands-on learning with makerspace! Makerspace is a revolutionary approach to education that allows students to unleash their creativity and develop critical thinking skills while tinkering with real-world materials. So gather your library staff, classroom teachers, and even your local community because it is time for maker space! From kindergarteners building simple machines to high schoolers designing robots, makerspace takes classrooms by storm across all grade levels.

So, buckle up a...