Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast
Are you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way! As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher. Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience...
The Difference Between Telling and Teaching
There is a big difference between telling children what to do and teaching them how to do it.
In preschool, we give directions all day:
“Clean up,”
“Wash your hands,”
“Choose a center,”
And when children don’t follow those directions, it’s easy to think, “But I already told you!”
The truth is, telling communicates an expectation.
Teaching gives children the skills to meet it.
In this episode, we are talking about the difference between telling and teaching.
Plus, check out the new Center E...
Why Preschoolers Don't Learn Expectations By Hearing Them Once
One of the biggest classroom management mistakes isn't having expectations. It's assuming children learned them because we explained them once.
In this episode, we're talking about the difference between telling and teaching. Preschoolers don't automatically know how to line up, clean up, walk in the hallway, or participate during circle time. These are skills that must be intentionally taught through modeling, practice, coaching, and repetition.
If you find yourself repeating the same directions all day, it may not be a listening problem. It may be a teaching opportunity.
Topics Discussed:
Why explaining...The Preschool Framework I Use Every Year
What classroom management system do you use?
It's one of the questions I hear most often from preschool teachers. The answer may surprise you:
I don't rely on one classroom management system.
I rely on a framework:
Build It. Teach It. Reinforce It.
In this episode, we're breaking down why so many classroom management strategies fall apart and what teachers can do instead to create systems that actually work.
Topics Discussed:
How to create an environment that answers children's questions before they need to askWhy we...I Open Centers on Day One - But I Don't Expect Independence
One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "When do you introduce centers?" Many teachers are surprised by my answer: I open centers on Day One.
But there's an important difference.
I don't expect children to be independent on Day One.
In this episode, we're talking about the biggest mistakes teachers make when introducing centers, why preschoolers struggle during those first few weeks, and how you can teach center routines in a way that builds confidence instead of chaos.
Topics Discussed:
Why keeping centers closed can actually slow down...What Actually Matters Before the School Year Starts
Every summer, preschool teachers make ambitious classroom prep lists:
Cut everything out.Laminate everything.Organize every bin.Create every center.But once school begins, many of those tasks suddenly feel far less important than they seemed in June.
Instead of preparing endless activities, you'll learn why preparing classroom systems is what truly sets the tone for a successful school year.
A classroom that runs smoothly can teach far more than a classroom that's constantly managing chaos.
Topics Discussed:
Why systems matter more than activities during the first weeks of...The Preschool Classroom Mistakes That Create Chaos Later
The teachers running the smoothest classrooms aren't usually the ones with the cutest classrooms. They're the ones who spent the first few weeks intentionally teaching children how the classroom works.
In this episode, we dive into five common mistakes teachers make at the beginning of the year that often lead to behavior challenges, difficult transitions, dependence on adults, and classroom chaos later on.
Plus, what to focus on instead to build a classroom that runs smoothly all year long.
Topics Discussed:
Why teaching routines matters more than teaching academics during the first...5 Ways Teachers Are Using Visual Schedules Wrong (And What to Do Instead)
You spent the time laminating the cards.
You hung the visual schedule perfectly on the wall.
But then?
The kids barely looked at it.
In this episode, let's talk about the five biggest mistakes teachers make with visual schedules and explain how to turn your schedule from a classroom decoration into one of the most powerful tools in your day.
The truth is, visual schedules do not work automatically. They have to be taught, referenced, updated, and used consistently if we want children to feel safe and confident using...
What to Send Home This Summer (That Kids Will Actually Use)
The summer slide is real. But turning summer into “homework season” is not the answer.
In this episode, we’re talking about a better way to support preschool learning at home through simple, play-based activities families will actually use. If you’ve ever sent home workbook packets only to wonder if they ever left the backpack, this conversation is for you...
Because preschoolers learn best through play, connection, conversation, and hands-on experiences, not pages of busywork.
Topics Discussed:
Why traditional take-home packets don't work for preschoolersWhat young children actually need to keep skills f...How to Make Assessments Feel Less Overwhelming (Without Skipping Them)
If assessment season makes you want to shut your laptop and disappear for a while… you’re not alone. In this episode, let me break down why traditional assessment methods feel so exhausting! But more importantly, let me give you a better way to do it.
You’ll learn a simpler, more effective approach that saves time, reduces stress for your students, and gives you data you can actually use to guide your teaching.
Topics Discussed:
Why assessing everything at the beginning of the year doesn’t workWhat to assess at the beginning, middle, and end...What Kids Are Actually Learning in Dramatic Play
What if the loudest, most chaotic corner of your classroom is actually where the deepest learning is happening?
In this episode, we’re rethinking dramatic play and breaking the myth that it’s “just pretending.” Because when you take a closer look, you’ll see children building language, social skills, literacy, and real-world understanding through play.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to replace play with more structured academics, this episode will help you see why dramatic play deserves a permanent place in your classroom.
Topics Discussed:
Skill Building in Dramatic PlayWhy engagement i...Small Spring Shifts, Big Classroom Energy
Spring brings a noticeable shift in energy and it can leave even the most well-run classrooms feeling a little chaotic. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a full reset to fix it.
In this episode, we’re talking about how to refresh your preschool classroom in simple, manageable ways that actually work - without adding more to your plate.
Because the goal isn’t to start over. It’s to work smarter with what you already have.
Topics Discussed:
Why spring behavior shifts are normal (and not a sign somet...The Science of Spring: More Than Cute Crafts
What does science look like in a preschool classroom?
It’s not worksheets.
It’s a child running across the grass with a kite they built themselves! They built it, tested it and discovered that it works!
In this episode, we’re talking about how to move beyond “cute” spring activities and into meaningful science that actually builds cognitive skills.
Topics Discussed:
What real science looks like in preschoolWhy spring is the perfect time for scienceCenters vs. STEM ChallengesThe thinking skills hiding in spring scienceHow to make spring science simpleRel...
From Recognition to Application: A Better Way to Teach Preschool Skills
In this episode, we’re talking about the common "recognition trap" in early childhood education and why stopping at identification can limit deeper learning. You’ll learn a simple four-stage framework you can use to guide children from basic familiarity with a concept all the way to meaningful application.
Let's bring clarity and calmness back to your planning!
Topics Discussed:
Why recognition is the starting line, not the finish lineThe difference between naming and true recognitionThe four stages of preschool skill developmentThe framework and how it supports differentiationSimple ways to get startedRela...
Name Writing Routines That Build Confidence (One Child at a Time)
In this episode, we’re breaking down how to scaffold name writing in a preschool classroom where readiness levels vary widely (because they always do).
Let's discuss what the true progression of name writing looks like, how to structure a routine that supports mixed abilities, and what to do when a child simply isn’t ready yet.
Because name writing isn’t a race. It’s a scaffolded skill and every child develops at their own pace.
Topics Discussed:
Why readiness for name writing varies so muchThe developmental foundations required before name writingWha...Friendship Drama? Friendship Skills Are Learned Behaviors
In this episode, we’re breaking down why friendship struggles actually increase as the school year goes on, why that’s developmentally appropriate, and what it really looks like to teach friendship skills as learned behaviors and not just remind kids to “be nice.”
Let's talk about what’s driving mid-year social conflict and practical, doable strategies you can start using right away.
Topics Discussed:
Why friendship drama increases as the year goes onWhat friendship skills actually areHow to teach friendhip skillsWhy mid-year is the perfect time to strengthen your SEL instructionOne simple friendship skill that...Arctic Animals, Hibernation & Hands-On Winter Centers
January is long and your kids have way too much energy.
In this episode, let's talk winter themes like arctic animals and hibernation.
When you use play-based, intentional centers, winter becomes a time for deep engagement, meaningful learning, and calmer classrooms.
Topics Discussed:
Why winter themes work so well in JanuaryThe problem with relying only on “cute crafts”How to turn arctic animals and hibernation into skill -rich center workPractical winter center ideas you can useRelated Resources:
Science Centers: WinterScience Centers: HibernationWinter Writing InvitationsWinter Dramatic Play CenterHunt the Ro...Circle Time Check-In: What's Working Mid-Year
It feels like the perfect time for a little circle time check-in.
In this episode, I’m sharing what’s been working well, what I’ve adjusted along the way, and the incredible growth I’ve seen in my students since August.
If you’re a teacher looking to make Circle Time more engaging, flexible, and responsive to your students’ needs, this episode will give you practical ideas and reassurance that evolving your routines is a good thing.
Topics Discussed:
How circle time looked in August vs how it looks nowWhat's working well mid-yea...Going Beyond Story Time with Interactive Read-Alouds
In this episode, we’re talking about how to turn story time into an interactive literacy experience without adding more to your prep list. I’m sharing simple ways to dig deeper into books, what happens when you re-read with purpose, and how I use Interactive Read-Aloud units to keep everything organized and joyful.
Topics Discussed:
Why read-alouds are such an essential literacy tool in preschoolWhat makes a read-aloud interactiveHow to structure a full week of learning around one bookWhy re-reading builds comprehension, confidence, and a love of booksRelated Resources:
Interactive Read Alou...Inviting Preschoolers to Write - Without Pressure
In this episode, we are diving into Writing Invitations! We want children to be excited about writing, which means we need a playful, child-led approach without pressure, prompts, or frustration. Learn what Writing Invitations are, why they work, and how to use them to make your writing center a place kids actually want to visit.
Topics Discussed:
What Writing Invitations are (and what they aren't)How to set up Writing InvitationsReal examples of Writing InvitationsWhy Writing Invitations support emergent writing, creativity, and confidenceHow to shift expectations and honor scribbles, symbols, and early marks as real writingCommon...The Real Work Behind Name Writing
Teaching preschoolers to write their names is about so much more than putting letters on paper. In this episode, we’re unpacking what really comes before name writing: the recognition, the fine motor readiness and the meaningful play that make writing feel exciting instead of frustrating.
Listen in as I give you practical strategies to support your students at every stage - from recognizing their name in print to confidently building and eventually writing it.
Topics Discussed:
Recognition before formation.Before writing, we build - becoming familiar with their names.Hands-on beats pencil-down - st...Handwriting vs. Writing: Why They're Not the Same
In this episode, we’re unpacking a topic that’s often misunderstood in early childhood education: the difference between handwriting and writing.
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they involve very different skills and understanding that difference can change the way you support your preschoolers.
Topics Discussed:
What handwriting and writingreallymeanWhy mixing them up leads to unrealistic expectationsHow each skill develops (spoiler: not at the same pace!)Simple ways to support both - without overwhelming young learnersRelated Resources:
Fine Motor Build a SkillName Writing NotebooksWriting Invitations for the Writing Cent...Why Classroom Jobs Aren't Just 'Cute' - They're Crucial
In this episode, we’re diving into why class jobs are more than just 'cute helpers', how they support your students in meaningful ways, and how to make them manageable for you. Class jobs may seem like a small detail, but they can completely transform your classroom culture.
Whether you’ve tried class jobs before (and dropped them) or you’re just getting started, this episode will help you simplify the system, make it sustainable, and connect it to your academic and SEL goals.
Topics Discussed:
TheWhyBehind Class JobsCommon Job StrugglesHow to Make it Work a...How I Keep Circle Time Engaging (Without Losing My Mind)
Ever looked out at your circle time rug and seen blank stares and wiggly bodies? You’re not alone. Circle time burnout is real (for both kids and teachers). But the good news? A few small changes can make a big impact (without hours of prep).
In this episode, I’m sharing simple, sanity-saving strategies that keep kids engaged and make circle time something everyone looks forward to.
Topics Discussed:
Why kids get boredThe power of classroom jobsHow to rotate activities during circle timeAdding in brain breaksRelated Resources:
Two and Three Year Old Circle Time V...Circle Time Isn't Broken (You Just Need a Better Reason)
In this episode, we’re digging into the real reasons circle time sometimes flops—and why it still matters when done with purpose. If you've ever felt pressure to skip it or questioned its value in a busy preschool day, this one’s for you.
Topics Discussed:
Why critics of circle time aren't entirely wrongHow to reframe circle time as a community builderPractical ways to make your circle time shorter, more engaging and developmentally appropriateRelated Resources:
Two and Three Year Old Circle Time VisualsPre-K Circle Time VisualsVisual Schedule BlogpostConnect with A...
The First Few Weeks of Circle Time: What to Do (and What to Skip)
Day one of preschool and circle time feels like total chaos? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong.
In this episode, we’re breaking down what circle time really looks like during those first few weeks—and how to keep it simple, predictable, and stress-free (yes, even when someone’s licking a shoe)!
Topics Discussed:
Why less is more when you’re just starting outA realistic breakdown of the first few daysWhen to introduce jobs, calendar, and routinesWhy singing instructions actually worksHow visuals can be your secret weapon from Day 1...
The First Day of Preschool: What to Prep (and What to Forget)
Feeling overwhelmed with all the Pinterest-perfect classroom ideas? Today we’re cutting through the clutter and talking about the only five things you really need to prep before the first day of preschool. No fancy bulletin boards, no year-long plans—just the simple, effective tools that help your classroom run smoother from Day One. Tune in!
Topics Discussed:
Why procedure visuals are your best Day One investmentHow to use movement and calming prompts to support regulationThe power of a visual schedule in creating predictabilityWhat makes a comforting and functional chill-out spotEasy, no-prep wait-time games that save your...Why Transitions Are the Hidden Troublemakers of the Preschool Day
In today's episode we’re talking about the most overlooked, chaos-causing part of the preschool day: transitions. Those sneaky little in-betweens that can make or break your whole routine. If transitions feel like a daily disaster, I’ve got ideas to help you bring back the calm! Tune in!
Topics Discussed:
Why transitions are so tricky.Signs your transitions might be causing stress.What smooth transitions actually look like.Related Resources:
Preschool Transition ToolkitFree Schedule Workbook + Visual Schedule CardsPreschool Procedure CardsRelated Blogposts/Episodes:
Blogpost: Building a Preschool Schedule that Work...Big Update Alert! Your Two & Three Year Old Curriculum Just Got a Whole Lot Better
In today’s episode, we’re taking a deep dive into the updates that have been made to the Two & Three Year Old Curriculum! What if lesson planning did not have to be complicated? What if everything was done for you so that you could concentrate on the 100's of other things preschool teachers have going on? You want to deliver developmentally appropriate, meaningful, and manageable lessons every single day - let me help you! Tune in and I'll give you all of the details!
Topics Discussed:
Why I created this curriculum (and why I updated it...Building a Preschool Schedule That Works
In today’s episode, we’re diving into how to build a preschool schedule that works for you—not against you. Because a great schedule isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the secret sauce that makes your day smoother, your students calmer, and your teaching time way more effective. Tune in!
Topics Discussed:
Why your daily schedule matters.4 big schedule mistakes and how to avoid them.How to build a schedule that actually works for you.How and why to use visuals.Related Resources:
Create the Perfect Preschool Schedule Workbook + Visual Schedule CardsThe Importance of Rotating Centers for Maximum Learning
Rotating play centers means more engagement, deeper learning and better behavior! By rotating the toys and materials in our play centers we can boost engagement and encourage purposeful play. If you aren't sure when or how to rotate centers...tune In! I'm sharing all of my tips and tricks!
Topics Discussed:
Why rotating centers is important.How often to rotate centers.Tips for easy rotation.Related Resources:
Guide to Preschool CentersRelated Blogposts/Episodes:
Blogpost: Free Play + Playful Learning = Engaged Centers4 Benefits of Free Choice PlayConnect with...
Using Play Centers to Teach Executive Functioning Skills
Executive functioning is critical for learning. In this episode, I will teach how centers naturally build these skills and you how to boost those skills without adding a single thing to your to-do list. Tune In!
Topics Discussed:
What executive functioning is.How centers support executive functioning.Simple ways to boost executive functioning in centers.Related Resources:
Guide to Preschool CentersConnect with Ashley
Follow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook GroupMore About the Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast
Are you a busy preschool...
Transform Your Light Table All Year Long with Seasonal Mats!
With seasonal light table mats, you can transform your classroom into a space of wonder and exploration throughout the year. Keep your learners engaged, skills sharp, and imaginations soaring. Ready to jumpstart your sensory journey? Tune In!
Topics Discussed:
What are light table mats and how do they work?The power of using seasonal themes and how to incorporate them into your light table.Seasonal light table ideas and done for you resources!Tips for using light tables.Related Resources:
Summer Light Table ActivitiesRelated Blogposts/Episodes:
Episode 30: Must Have...Why 'Just Go Play' Doesn't Work: Explicitly Teaching Center Skills
You have your centers all set. Now, its time to 'go play'! Have you ever wondered why your centers are chaotic instead of creative? In this episode, we will uncover the secrets to teaching purposeful play and help transform your preschool center time into moments of joyful learning!
Topics Discussed:
Understanding the Importance of Teaching Center SkillsStep-By-Step Guide to Teaching Center SkillsPractical Tips to Implement in Your ClassroomRelated Resources:
FREE Center GuideRelated Blogposts/Episodes:
Episode 107: 5 Reasons Why Assigning Centers Can BackfireEpisode 97: How Long to Schedule CentersEpisode 89: Prep Centers...Stop! Don't Hand That Preschooler a Pencil...Yet!
Have you ever handed a pencil to an eager preschooler only to see them struggle awkwardly? In episode 121, discover why the key to confident writing starts with building fine motor skills, not rushing to the pencil.
Topics Discussed:
The Importance of Fine Motor Skills in Early Childhood DevelopmentThe Challenges of Early WritingThe Fine Motor First ApproachRelated Resources:
Fine Motor Build-a-Skill ResourceRelated Blogposts/Episodes:
Episode 108: Using Fine Motor Boxes in PreschoolConnect with Ashley
Follow on Instagram @lovelycommotionJoin the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook Group...
5 Surprising Benefits of Preschool Assessments
Ever thought preschool assessments were just tedious paperwork? Think again! Discover the surprising benefits that can transform your classroom and make a lasting impact on your students' growth. Today, we're diving into 5 reasons why assessments might just be your new best friend!
Topics Discussed:
What is the purpose of preschool assessments5 Benefits of preschool assessmentsPlus, the FREE Assessment Guide you've been looking forRelated Resources:
FREE Assessment Guide2 Year Old Assessment3 Year Old AssessmentPre-K AssessmentRelated Blogposts/Episodes:
Episode 112: Using Assessment Data to Plan Lessons Episode 83: Analyzing Preschool Assessment DataEpisode 82...Biggest Small Group Mistakes (And How to Fix Them!)
Small group time shouldn't feel stressful! In fact, with a clear plan in place it can be extremely effective. Small groups build confidence, increase engagement, and can help us with targeted instruction for our students. But small group time only works if it's done right! In this episode, let's talk about the most common small group mistakes and how we can fix them!
Topics Discussed:
Why small group time is beneficial9 small group mistakes and how we can fix themThe done-for-you solution to small group planningRelated Resources:
Small Group Binder...
What is Bookmaking? How to use it to Encourage Preschool Writing
Bookmaking is a great way to encourage writing in your preschool classroom! Providing blank books and encouraging your students to fill them with their stories, thoughts, and feelings allows them to expand their storytelling and gives purpose to their marks and drawing. Tune in to episode 118 to hear why bookmaking is important, what emergent writing looks like and how and where we can add bookmaking in our own classrooms!
Topics Discussed:
What is bookmaking and what are the benefits of introducing it to your studentsHow to incorporate and encourage bookmaking in your classroomWhat emergent writing looks...Teaching Young Children How Reading Works
Teaching young children how reading works is a great way to boost confidence and lay the foundation for when it is time for them to actually begin reading! They are aware that they don't yet know how to read and sometimes this can cause frustration. By using 'literary touchpoints' we can help encourage them and a future love of reading!
Topics Discussed:
Why it is important to teach young children how reading works7 key skills for teaching how reading worksTips on how and when to incorporate literacy touchpointsRelated Resources:
FREE Literacy Training: 3 Mistakes to Avoid to R...How to Build a Sensory Bin for Preschoolers
In this episode, we are talking about sensory bins! Sensory bins are an essential part of any preschool classroom. They give our preschoolers a chance to use their senses to explore and learn. Changing out the classroom sensory bin can help create fresh new ideas and opportunities for discovery! If you need some tips, tricks, and ideas on how to make sensory bins both fun and educational ...tune in!
Topics Discussed:
Benefits of sensory binsWhat to include in a sensory binRelated Resources:
FREE Sensory Tub Materials ListRelated Blogposts/Episodes:<...
Shared Reading Meets Winter Fun
In this episode, we’re diving into shared reading—what it is, why it’s so powerful for preschoolers, and how you can use pocket charts to make your shared reading sessions engaging and effective. Plus, learn how our Winter Shared Reading Pocket Chart Activities can help you combine literacy learning with seasonal fun.
Tune in!
Topics Discussed:
What is shared reading? Why is it important?3 reasons why pocket charts are perfect for shared reading.How to use my Winter Shared Reading Pocket Chart ActivitiesRelated Resources:
Winter Shared Reading Resources