Happy Teaching
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.inst...
Episode 70: Using Fidgets in the Classroom
In this episode, Alex shares how to use fidgets intentionally in your Pre-K or Kindergarten classroom. While fidgets can be helpful tools for supporting attention and self-regulation, introducing them can bring up plenty of questions, especially when every student suddenly wants one! Plus, Alex explains why sitting still and making eye contact aren't always the best indicators of whether a child is paying attention.
✨ You'll learn:
Why fidgets should be introduced as tools, not toysHow fidgets can support attention and self-regulationWays to introduce fidgets without creating classroom distractionsHow to set expectations and help students us...Episode 69: Sensory Bins Made Easy
In this episode, Alex shares how to make sensory bins more manageable, affordable, and accessible in your Pre-K or Kindergarten classroom. You don't need a fancy sensory table, elaborate themes, or endless supplies to give your students meaningful sensory play experiences!
✨ You'll learn:
How to set up sensory bins without a large sensory tableEasy fillers and materials you can reuse throughout the yearWays to change themes without constantly buying new suppliesWhy sensory play doesn't always need an academic component💡 Sensory bins don't have to be elaborate to be meaningful! With a few basic mater...
Episode 68: Make Sub Plans Easier
In this episode, Alex shares practical tips for making substitute plans easier to prepare and manage. Whether you're planning for an upcoming absence or unexpectedly waking up sick, having a few things ready ahead of time can make a big difference!
✨ You'll learn:
• Why keeping familiar routines matters more than following every lesson exactly.
• How to organize a sub tub with essential classroom information.
• What activities and materials to prepare ahead of time.
• How to give substitutes flexibility while keeping the day on track.
💡 Sub plans don't have to mean starting...
Episode 67: Who’s Missing? A Circle Time Game
In this episode, Alex shares one of her favorite circle time games for Pre-K and Kindergarten: Who’s Missing? This playful guessing game is a fun way to build classroom community while practicing names and listening skills. You'll hear exactly how to play, ideas for incorporating clues like rhyming and beginning sounds, and tips for making sure students understand that everyone may not get a turn each time you play.
✨ You'll learn:
• How to play Who’s Missing? with little to no prep.
• Ways to use clues to practice names.
• How th...
Episode 66: Meaningful Classroom Transitions
In this episode, Alex shares a fun way to make classroom transitions smoother while sneaking in a little extra learning along the way. Instead of having everyone move at once, you can use letters, shapes, numbers, and other familiar skills to gradually excuse students while reviewing what you've been learning.
✨ You'll learn:
Why transitions are a common time for classroom management strugglesHow to turn slower transitions into quick learning opportunitiesWays to use letters, shapes, numbers, and subitizing during transitionsHow to include students without making the activity feel like a quiz💡 Transitions don't have to be...
Episode 65: Rethinking Classroom Jobs
In this episode, Alex shares a simpler approach to classroom jobs for Pre-K and Kindergarten. Instead of assigning and rotating a different job for every student, she uses one helper of the day, keeping classroom responsibilities meaningful for students and much easier for the teacher to manage. You'll hear how this easy system works, why it fits young learners so well, and how it can even help students practice patience, independence, and celebrating their classmates.
✨ You'll learn:
Why traditional classroom job systems can become another thing for teachers to manageHow to use on...Episode 64: Simple Brain Break Songs for the Classroom
In this episode, Alex shares two simple songs you can use anytime your Pre-K or Kindergarten students need to get their wiggles out, refocus, or fill a few extra minutes. No special materials or planning needed—just your voice and a little movement!
✨ You'll learn:
When brain breaks can be helpful and when it may be time to rethink lesson lengthTwo easy songs you can use anytimeHow movement and freezing can help you regain students' attentionA no-prep way to combine movement with counting practice💡 Brain breaks don't have to be complicated! A few minutes...
Episode 63: Songs for Smoother Classroom Transitions
In this episode, Alex builds on last week's conversation about singing in the classroom with two more simple songs to support classroom management. This time, the focus is on transitions—helping students gather calmly, get ready to listen, and move on to what's next without constant reminders.
You'll hear two easy songs you can start using right away, whether you're gathering students on the rug or simply trying to get everyone's attention back.
✨ You'll learn:
How songs can make transitions calmer and easier to manageA simple song for helping students settle on the...Episode 62: Using Songs to Teach Classroom Routines
In this episode, Alex shares how simple songs can make classroom routines easier to teach and more fun to practice. You don't have to be a great singer. Your students don't care! What matters is using music to help young learners remember expectations, stay engaged, and move through the day more smoothly. Plus, Alex teaches you two easy songs you can start using right away for voice levels and lining up.
✨ You'll learn:
Why songs are such a powerful tool for teaching routinesA simple song for teaching different classroom voice levelsHow to use singing an...Episode 61: Name Games & Songs for Back to School
In this episode, Alex shares some of her favorite name games, songs, and chants for Pre-K and Kindergarten. Name activities are a simple way to help students learn each other's names while building classroom community and practicing early literacy and social skills.
✨ You'll learn:
How name games help build classroom communityFun ways to practice rhyming, syllables, and name recognitionHow to adapt name songs for young attention spans💡 Name games may feel simple, but they're an easy way to help students learn about their classmates while building important early learning skills.
🔗 Resource...
Episode 60: Making the Most of Classroom Volunteers
In this episode, Alex shares practical strategies for making classroom volunteers a true support instead of another thing to manage. Whether you have parent volunteers every week or only a few throughout the year, a little preparation can make their time in your classroom much more effective.
✨ You'll learn:
Why waiting a few weeks before inviting volunteers into the classroom can be beneficialHow a volunteer survey can simplify scheduling and expectationsA simple system for organizing volunteer tasks and projectsEasy ways volunteers can support both students and classroom preparation💡 This episode will help you creat...
Episode 59: Simple Center Storage Ideas for Teachers
In this episode, Alex shares simple, practical ideas for organizing and storing classroom centers when they're not in use. If you've ever wondered what to do with all those laminated pieces, recording sheets, and activity cards, this episode is packed with teacher-tested solutions.
✨ You'll learn:
Five simple ways to organize and store classroom centersHow to combine digital and physical storage to save spaceEasy storage ideas for laminated pieces and activity cardsTips for choosing an organization system you'll actually stick with💡 This episode will help you spend less time searching for materials and more time...
Episode 58: Building Strong Partnerships with Paraeducators
In this episode, Alex shares practical ways to build a positive, productive partnership with the paraeducators in your classroom. Working alongside another adult isn't always something teachers are taught, but strong collaboration can make a huge difference for both you and your students.
✨ You'll learn:
Why understanding your paraeducator's role and responsibilities mattersHow to create clear routines and shared responsibilitiesWhy communication and appreciation strengthen your partnershipHow to avoid relying on paraeducators as the "behavior police"💡 This episode will help you build a stronger working relationship with your paraeducators so your entire classroom can thriv...
Episode 57: The First Week of School: Go Slow to Go Fast
In this episode, Alex shares the mindset and strategies for a successful first week of school. Instead of rushing into academics, you'll learn why focusing on routines, independence, and classroom community sets the foundation for the rest of the year. Plus, hear why going slow in the beginning helps you move faster later on.
✨ You'll learn:
Why routines should be your lesson plan during the first weekWhat "go slow to go fast" really looks like in the classroomHow to avoid overwhelming students with too many expectations at onceSimple first-week activities that teach routines while bu...Episode 56: Parent Communication Made Easier
In this episode, Alex shares practical strategies for making parent communication simpler and less stressful. You'll hear easy ways to keep families informed, build trust, and maintain healthy boundaries throughout the school year.
✨ You'll learn:
Simple ways to communicate consistently without adding more workWhy newsletters and classroom apps can strengthen family relationshipsWhen to choose an email versus a phone callHow to set healthy communication boundaries💡 This episode will help you create stronger connections with families while protecting your time and energy.
🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:
🎓 The P.L.A.Y. Cour...
Episode 55: Using Book Boxes to Build Independence
In this episode, Alex shares one of her favorite tools for building independence in the classroom: book boxes. Book boxes can do much more than hold books. They can help students manage materials independently, support small group routines, encourage a love of reading, and make it easier for children to use the entire classroom space.
✨ You'll learn:
How book boxes support independence and classroom managementSimple ways to set up and organize book boxesTips for helping students "shop" for books independentlyEasy strategies to improve traffic flow and reduce classroom congestion💡 This episode will help you u...
Episode 54: What If I'm Not Allowed to Play
In this episode, Alex tackles one of the most common questions she hears from teachers: What if I'm not allowed to play? If you love the idea of playful learning but work in a school with strict pacing guides, scripted curriculum, or little room for centers and exploration, this episode is for you. You'll hear strategies for working within the system while still honoring what young children need most: meaningful, active learning experiences.
✨ You’ll learn:
How to reframe play as purposeful, multi-sensory learningSimple ways to make standards-based lessons more engagingHow to add playfulness thro...Episode 53: Why Play Is Never "Just Playing"
In this episode, Alex dives into an important early childhood topic: the difference between free play and purposeful (or guided) play. Alex explains what each one looks like, how they support children's growth, and why play is never "just playing." You'll also hear why classroom environment and presentation play such an important role in engagement, independence, and meaningful learning through play.
✨ You’ll learn:
The difference between free play and purposeful (guided) playWhy children are always learning during playHow classroom environment impacts engagement and behaviorSimple ways teachers can guide play toward specific learning goals💡...
Episode 52: What Are Free-Flowing Centers?
In this episode, Alex breaks down one of her favorite classroom systems: free-flowing centers. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by center rotations, timers, constant prep, or trying to manage every student’s movement during math and literacy time, this episode introduces a different approach — one built around independence, playful learning, and strong routines.
✨ You’ll learn:
What free-flowing centers are (and what they are not)Why strong routines matter more than timers and rotationsHow free-flowing centers support independence and playful learningWhy “go slow to go fast” is key for successful center routines💡 This episode will...
Episode 51: Community Supplies: Why They Actually Work
In this episode, Alex shares why she made the switch from individual student supplies to whole-class community supplies and why she never went back. If you’ve ever dealt with missing pencils, broken crayons, overflowing supply boxes, or constant classroom clutter, this episode will give you a different perspective on how supplies can actually support independence, responsibility, and classroom management.
✨ You’ll learn:
Simple ways to organize and store shared materialsHow color coding and containers simplify cleanup and independenceWhy fewer supplies can actually reduce waste and chaos💡 This episode will help you rethink classroom...
Episode 50: Why Your Classroom Layout Matters
In this episode, Alex builds on last week’s conversation about playful classroom areas by introducing the idea of the “mullet of classroom design.” What does that mean? Many classrooms are set up with all the “learning” in the middle with tables, chairs, and teacher-directed spaces, while anything playful or engaging gets pushed to the edges of the room. Alex explains why this setup can actually work against engagement, independence, and classroom management.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why classroom zones and boundaries matterHow physical space impacts behavior, engagement, and cleanupWhy playful learning should not feel secondary in y...Episode 49: Playful Classroom Areas That Support Learning
In this episode, Alex shares some of the most important classroom areas to include in a playful, developmentally appropriate learning environment. This conversation isn’t about having the “perfect” classroom or expensive setups—it’s about creating intentional spaces that help students learn through play, movement, exploration, and connection.
✨ You’ll learn:
The key classroom areas that support playful learningWhy classroom layout impacts behavior, engagement, and independenceSimple ways to create functional spaces even in small classroomsHow to rethink your classroom setup with a developmentally appropriate lens💡 This episode will help you look at your classroom wi...
Episode 48: Beating the Sunday Night Blues
In this episode, Alex talks about something many teachers know all too well — the Sunday Night Blues. That anxious feeling as the weekend winds down can make it hard to fully enjoy your time off. Alex shares simple, realistic ways to reduce Sunday stress so you can protect your weekend and head into Monday feeling more prepared and calm.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why the Sunday Night Blues happen in the first placeHow doing yourself a “Friday favor” can make Monday feel easierWhy brain dumps help stop anxious thoughts from spiralingHow creating a Sunday ritual can shift...Episode 47: Walking in Line Without the Chaos
In this episode, Alex tackles a classroom challenge that sounds simple but rarely feels easy: walking in line. Getting young students from point A to point B can quickly become chaotic, especially during transitions and hallway travel. Alex shares practical ways to teach line expectations, reduce struggles, and make travel time calmer and more manageable.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why walking in line is a skill that needs to be explicitly taughtHow to practice line routines before expecting success in the hallwaySimple engagement strategies to make transitions smootherEasy hallway prompts that keep students focused and calm...Episode 46: Struggling with Dismissal? Try These Simple Shifts
In this episode, Alex tackles one of the most chaotic parts of the school day — dismissal. Even with a plan in place, dismissal can feel rushed, stressful, and overwhelming. You'll hear simple, practical strategies to help you create a smoother, calmer dismissal routine so you can end your day feeling more in control (and actually enjoy those final moments with your students).
✨ You’ll learn:
Why “pack up and go home” is too many directions for young learnersHow to break dismissal into simple, teachable stepsWhen (and how) to practice routines so they actually stickHow chants and...Episode 45: A Simple Alphabet Party That Feels Fun (Not Stressful)
In this episode, Alex shares a simple, low-prep way to celebrate the end of the year with an Alphabet Party. If you’re feeling the end-of-year crunch, these easy ideas still feel fun and special without adding more to your plate.
✨ You’ll learn:
Simple ways to turn snacks or manipulatives into hands-on learning activitiesEasy games like Alphabet Bingo and a “mystery letter” gameHow to keep the day engaging with songs — without things feeling chaotic💡 This episode is a reminder that it’s not about how big the party is, but the energy you bring to it.<...
Episode 44: Four Corners: The Easiest Brain Break Your Class Will Love
In this episode, Alex shares a simple, go-to game that every teacher needs in their back pocket, especially during those high-energy, “we need something different right now” moments. Whether you’re dealing with spring fever, indoor recess, or filling in for PE, Four Corners is an easy, low-prep game that gets students moving, engaged, and having fun in minutes.
✨ You’ll learn:
How to set up and play Four Corners with minimal materialsHow to keep the game moving so students stay engagedEasy ways to teach sportsmanship and handling disappointmentHow the game builds turn-taking, patience, and social...Episode 43: Should You Limit How Many Kids Are in Each Center? (Let’s Rethink This)
In this episode, Alex challenges a common classroom practice: limiting how many students can be in each center. Before you think, “There’s no way that would work in my classroom”... stick with this one. This episode is all about shifting perspective and rethinking how much control we actually need during center time.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why limiting centers may be more about control than student need How removing limits creates real opportunities for problem-solving The difference between behavior issues and the number of students How natural limits (like materials) can replace teacher-imposed limits💡 This episo...
Episode 42: AI for Teachers: Simple Ways to Save Time and Reduce Stress
In this episode, Alex breaks down AI in a way that actually feels manageable for teachers. Whether you’re excited about AI, completely overwhelmed by it, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you shift your mindset and see how it can support you — without taking over your teaching.
✨ You’ll learn:
How to use AI as a simple tool to support (not replace) your teachingWhy starting small can reduce overwhelmHow better prompts lead to better resultsWays AI can help lighten your mental load and decision fatigue💡 This episode is all about helping you...
Episode 41: Giving Directions Kids Can Actually Follow (2 Simple Teacher Tips)
In this episode, Alex shares two simple shifts that can dramatically improve how students respond to directions in your classroom. If you’ve ever given instructions and looked around to see students doing something completely different, or felt like you’re constantly saying “Don’t do that” or “Stop running” — this episode is for you.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why we often give too many directions at once without realizing itHow breaking instructions into 2–3 simple steps helps students succeedA powerful classroom strategy: turning directions into songs or chantsHow rephrasing directions into positive language improves student responses💡 This epi...
Episode 40: 7 Signs You’re Definitely a Kindergarten Teacher
In this fun and relatable episode, Alex shares seven classic signs you might be a Kindergarten (or early childhood) teacher. From hoarding office supplies to decoding student writing that looks like hieroglyphics, it’s a lighthearted look at the little things only Pre-K, TK, and Kindergarten teachers truly understand.
✨ You’ll Hear:
The irresistible pull of a good office supply sale Why early childhood teachers become masters of repurposing everything The mysterious teacher bag that travels between home and school The superpower of decoding early phonetic spelling Why Kindergarten teachers turn everything into a song or chan...Episode 39: 3 Tips to Make Morning Arrival Easier
In this episode, Alex shares three simple, practical strategies to help you calm the chaos of morning arrival. If your day starts with ringing phones, attendance stress, parents needing you, kids arriving at different times, and you already feel overwhelmed ten minutes in — this episode is for you. Because just like adults, kids feel it when a morning starts off rocky. And when we can create a predictable, calm beginning to the day, everything else tends to run more smoothly.
✨ You’ll Hear:
Why consistency in your arrival routine builds independenceHow keeping the routine the sa...Episode 38: What to Do When Kids Won't Keep Their Hands to Themselves
In this episode, Alex dives into one of the most common (and frustrating) classroom challenges: students not keeping their hands to themselves. Whether it’s pestering, poking, constant touching, or more serious hitting and shoving, this episode walks you through how to move beyond just saying “Keep your hands to yourself” and actually teach students what that means.
✨ You’ll hear:
• The difference between “pesty” behavior and truly hurtful behavior
• Why teaching both sides of the situation matters
• How to teach students to use a firm, big voice to say "STOP"
• What students...
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, tr...
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 sitt...
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...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 a...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...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 stu...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...