Rainbow Skies for Teachers

Starting a new school year can be exciting and a little nerve-wracking for both students and teachers. In this episode, we share 5 simple and engaging icebreaker games that will help you build connections, break the awkward first-day silence, and create a positive classroom culture from day one.These games are perfect for primary classrooms, require minimal preparation, and will get your students interacting and learning about one another while having fun. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this episode is full of practical, easy-to-implement tips to make your first few days smoother.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why icebreaker games are a must for creating a welcoming classroom environment5 easy-to-prepare icebreaker activities to suit any primary classroomTips to help even the shyest students feel comfortable and includedHow to turn icebreaker activities into opportunities for ongoing relationship-buildingWays to balance fun and structure as you settle into your new class routineIcebreaker games we talk about include:2 Truths and a LieName / Class detective (grab a free copy here)Lucky Dip questionsThe paper plane gameSpeed friendingTeam building towersPlace Value - Who am IYou can access more fun teaching ideas and a wealth of resources by visiting our website  www.rainbowskycreations.comRainbows ahead,Ashleigh and AlishaResources mentioned in this episodeGrab free our Classroom Detectives template Get a copy of our print-and-go Icebreaker resource APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFYLet's hear from you! Text us!

What sets successful educators apart? We’re diving deep to uncover the secrets behind the habits that drive highly effective teachers! Join us as we explore the core practices we believe shape exceptional teaching, helping students thrive and teachers flourish.The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teachers:They use their time efficiently – Prioritising and managing time effectively is essential for achieving daily goals and fostering a productive classroom environment.They plan ahead and know where they’re heading – These teachers have a clear vision and a roadmap, ensuring their lessons align with larger learning objectives.They’re on top of data collection from the get-go – Monitoring progress and collecting data is essential for tailored support and meaningful growth for every student.They focus on relationships in the classroom – Strong connections with students form the backbone of effective teaching; it’s all about trust, encouragement, and engagement.They are lifelong learners – Effective teachers constantly seek to improve, staying curious, inspired, and committed to growth for themselves and their students.They are team players with a positive outlook – Collaboration and optimism go hand-in-hand, creating a supportive and joyful environment for both teachers and students.They are organised – With strong organisational skills, these teachers juggle tasks smoothly, reducing stress and maximizing classroom impact.These 7 habits encapsulate the essence of highly effective educators who bring positivity and purpose to their classrooms every day. Do you have other habits or qualities that you think make a teacher effective? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us a message on Instagram, and let’s keep this inspiring conversation going.If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow and review our podcast so you never miss a fresh dose of inspiration. Tag us on social media when you share your thoughts—we’d love to personally thank you!For even more classroom inspiration, professional development resources, and teaching tools, visit our website at www.rainbowskycreations.com.Rainbows ahead,Alisha and AshleighResources mentioned in today’s episodeSurviving Teaching Your First Years Free Guide Follow Goodmorning Ms Foster for amazing Classroom Management StrategiesA book to check out: Atomic Habits by James Clear Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE. APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFYLet's hear from you! Text us!

We know that as a teacher, time is one of your most valuable resources. That’s why, in this episode, we’re diving into practical strategies to help you reclaim your time so you can focus on what really matters: teaching and connecting with your students. From organisation hacks to simple routines, we’re sharing tips to keep you one step ahead in your teaching life!We break down 7 time management strategies for teachers:Start with Organisation – Get organised from the start by giving everything in your classroom a “home.” Think about setting up designated spaces for teaching tools and resources to make finding items quick and easy!Set Realistic Goals – Avoid overwhelming to-do lists by focusing on 2-3 priorities each day. You’ll accomplish more by staying focused, and you’ll feel great crossing those essentials off your list.Create Term Systems – Establish consistent routines for your weekly and daily tasks. Knowing what you need to do on set days each week will help streamline your workload.Be a Week Ahead – Plan your lessons and prep materials a week in advance. A little forward planning goes a long way toward reducing last-minute stress!Work with Your Personal Productivity Rhythm – Find what time of day you’re most productive and schedule your big tasks for then, whether it’s early morning or a weekend afternoon.Maintain Daily and Weekly Routines – Create routines for tasks like marking, tidying your desk, and updating your board. These habits become second nature and help keep you on top of classroom demands.Limit Technology Distractions – Switch off notifications, put your phone in another room, and focus on the task at hand. With fewer distractions, you’ll be amazed at how much more you can accomplish!Not every tip may work for everyone, but try a few and see what makes a difference for you! We hope these time-saving strategies empower you to feel more in control of your day, allowing you to save time and reduce stress in the classroom.If you loved this episode, don’t forget leave us a 5-star rating and review!!For more teacher PD, classroom inspiration, and a library of resources, visit www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead,Alisha and Ashleigh Resources mentioned in this episodeFree Editable Weekly Checklist Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE. APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFYLet's hear from you! Text us!

We are so excited to share this special replay episode of Ashleigh’s interview on The Teacher Approved Podcast with Emily and Heidi! We had a great conversation about supporting new teachers and how veteran educators can play a key role in helping them thrive. In this conversation we dive deep into the challenges of teaching, from managing imposter syndrome to finding a healthy work-life balance, our favourite tips and strategies to help teachers feel more confident and connected in their roles. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned educator, there’s something here for everyone.Supporting new teachers isn’t just about the early weeks of the school year—it’s a year-round effort. In this episode, we discuss ways veteran teachers can mentor and guide their new colleagues, from sharing classroom management strategies to being a listening ear during the busiest times. Plus, we share how small mindset shifts, like reframing your to-do list and carving out time for self-care, can make a big difference in how teachers feel both in and out of the classroom.Highlights from the Episode:Common challenges new teachers face and how to navigate them.Mindset shifts to help teachers manage their endless to-do lists.How veteran teachers can offer meaningful support to their new colleagues throughout the year.Practical tips for managing parent relationships and classroom routines.A fun game to help students move quietly through the hallways!It was such a joy to join Emily and Heidi on their podcast. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording it! If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review to stay updated with the latest content. You can access more teacher PD, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website  www.rainbowskycreations.com.Rainbows ahead, Alisha and AshleighResources mentioned in today’s episodeYAY I’m a Teacher FREEBIETransform your First Years - Access the course HERE.Join the waitlist for our exciting new membership HERE.APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFYAbout The Teacher Approved Podcast:Do you ever feel like there’s just not enough time to be the kind of teacher you know you could be? Co-hosts (and sisters!) Heidi and Emily of Second Story Window are here to help you elevate what matters and simplify the rest. Join them as they share research-based and teacher-approved strategies to make your teaching more efficient and more effective than ever before. Let's hear from you! Text us!