A Simple Trick for Learning Students’ Names

Learning every student’s name, and pronouncing it correctly, is one of the simplest but most powerful ways to build community in the classroom. On the first day of school (which was just 2 days ago) I always use a little trick to help me get it right every time and it will help you, too.

Why Names Matter

Names are more than labels. They’re part of our identity. When we pronounce a child’s name correctly, it shows respect, builds trust, and communicates that they belong in our classroom. Even the youngest students notice when we get their names right and families deeply appreciate the effort.

My Go-To Trick

On the first day of school, I ask each student to say their name while I record it on my phone. Later, I take the recordings home and practice. Hearing the names directly from my students helps me master pronunciations quickly and confidently.  (I admit to still writing down a few names phonetically based on how THEY pronounced it on the video to help me the next day!)  I tape everyone even though it's only about 5-6 student names that I need help with. A quick 30 second total video is all that's needed!

The Payoff

This small routine makes a big impact. Students smile when they hear their names spoken correctly, and it sets a positive tone for the year. It helps establish strong relationships and a sense of community and belonging from the start.

Try It Yourself

If you struggle with names or teach a large group of students, give this simple trick a try. A few minutes of listening and practicing can make all the difference in helping your students feel valued and seen.

NOTE:  Earlier on in my career, I would say the child's name on the first day and they'd tell me it's correct when it wasn't.  Many don't want to contradict a teacher. I'd find out later that I wasn't saying it properly and would feel terrible.

I hope your year is off to a good start.  I've only had two days but I'm already feeling a sense of community.  Sweet kids!  I have 20 this year.  How about you? 

10 September Essentials Every First & Second Grade Teacher Needs (and They’re on SALE!)

September is almost here and if you’re anything like me, you’re looking for easy, ready-to-go resources to keep your days smooth and your students engaged.

So I’ve rounded up my 10 September Essentials...the things I reach for year after year.

And here’s the best part…

💸 They’re all going to be an extra 25% off during the TpT sitewide sale!
Grab them now, and you’re set for the whole month (and beyond). All of these for only 17.63 today! That's saving $24!

🍎 My Top 10 September Must-Haves

1. Morning Meeting Slides – Start the day calm, connected, building community and ready to learn.

2. Fall-Themed Math Number Sense Centers – Hands-on and no-prep for instant engagement. Use any time of the year.

3. Writing Pick-a-Prompt – Perfect for early finishers or writing stations. After I model a few for them, they can do these early on! Trust the process.  (I allow pictures only if they want and then they orally share.)

4. September Goals and Craft – SIMPLE craft, instant Bulletin Board. Can you or not use goal. Up to you!

5. The Power of Yet Bulletin Board – Mine stays up all year. Read about it here.

6. September Class Books – Several books included. Differentiated. They go in class library and we divide them up at the end of the year.

7. September Open-Ended Math Questions – I LOVE these! Perfect easier ones to start the year off right with deep thinking skills.

8. September Crowns – I've included so many options! Fun! 

9. Which One Doesn't Belong? – A favorite class activity! 

10. Editable Slideshow – For Back-to-School Night, Open House...ANY slideshow you need!

and although free, I've included my 20 September Poems and Songs so they are all in one place. 

💡 Why These Work

• They save time – Less planning, more teaching.

• They keep kids engaged – Seasonal themes = instant buy-in.

• They’re flexible – Use whole group, small group, or independently.

✨ Don’t Miss the Sale

If you’ve had any of these on your wishlist, now’s the time. During the sale, you’ll save big plus they’re already budget-friendly to start with!

I'm off to buy some clip art at the TpT sale...

Make Morning Meetings the Best Part of Your Day (And Save Tons of Time!)

LET'S BE REAL: There’s a lot on your plate at the start of a new school year. Between prepping supplies, organizing your classroom, and learning a whole new batch of personalities, it’s easy to let routines like Morning Meeting slide to the bottom of the to-do list. This is especially true if YOU need to come up with your own components. All. Year. Long.

But what if I told you that Morning Meeting could actually make your days smoother, your classroom community stronger, and your lesson planning easier?

Let me show you how easier your Back-to-School season can be! 

🌟 What is Morning Meeting and Why Does It Matter?

Morning Meeting is a simple but powerful daily routine that sets the tone for learning. It helps students feel seen, safe, and connected and when kids feel connected and part of a community, everything runs more smoothly.

Each Morning Meeting lasts around 15 minutes and includes:

• A Greeting to build connections

• A Share to build confidence and communication skills

• An Activity to promote teamwork and laughter

• A Message to set expectations and/or spark conversation

I’ve written in-depth posts on each of the four components, so if you're looking for ideas or inspiration, you can dive deeper here:

• All About Morning Meeting Greetings

• Meaningful Share Prompts for Morning Meeting

• Quick & Easy Morning Meeting Activities

• How to Write a Morning Message That Matters

⏱️ Save HOURS with These Ready-to-Use Slides

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every morning! 

My Monthly Morning Meeting resources give you 25 complete days of slides you can project or print. All are aligned with social-emotional learning and perfect for Kindergarten, First and Second Grade. (Each month is DIFFERENT with about 5 repeat activities/greetings that are favorites. When they pop up, the kids get very excited!)

So no more scrambling ten minutes before school starts each day. Just click and project.  Here is a closer look at some of my September Slides.

🗓️ Use It How YOU Want

Teachers have told me they use these slides:

• As part of a Responsive Classroom model (But if not RC, they still are perfect for MM!)

• During Afternoon Meeting/Closing Circle, Circle Time, or SEL blocks

• For sub plans (They’re that easy! I print out one of each and leave for Sub.)

• As a reference tool. Some display only the message but still use everything else in the meeting...just not projected.)

And because there are some slides that are editable, you can add a greeting, share or activity to fit your class needs.

💸 HUGE Back-to-School Discount Coming!

Next week during the sitewide sale, this BUNDLED resource will be an additional 25% off! The bundle is already discounted everyday from $60 to $48 and next week, the bundle will be on sale for $36.

The sale will start on Tuesday, August 5, at 12:01am ET and end on Wednesday, August 6. Use the promo code BTS25.

👉Still not convinced this can make your life easier?  Want to Try Before You Buy? Grab the Free Week of Morning Meetings to see how simple and powerful these can be! 

Whether you’re new to Morning Meeting or just want to start fresh this year, this is the best time to jump in.

✨ Final Thought

Morning Meeting doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, when it’s simple, consistent, and meaningful, it becomes one of the best parts of the day.

Let this be the year you jump in and take the plunge. Less planning. More connecting. That’s a win-win!

Happy teaching,

The One Phrase That Turns Students Into Problem Solvers

As elementary teachers, we’re constantly asked to solve problems whether they are big or small. But for the past few years, I’ve been using one simple phrase that has transformed my classroom culture:

“I can’t wait to see how you handle that.”

When a student comes to me with a minor issue like a broken pencil, a missing crayon, or a table partner who is disturbing them, I pause before stepping in. Instead of solving it for them, I hand it back to them with, "I can't wait to see how you handle that."

And guess what? It works. It’s not dismissive. It’s empowering.

This simple line encourages independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills which are all essential parts of a growth mindset classroom.

By giving students ownership of small challenges, I’m helping them (my Fabo Firsties!) build confidence and resilience. They start to see that they can handle things on their own and and that their solutions often work. It sends the message: “You’ve got this.” And more often than not, they really do

And over time, I’ve seen real growth. Students start thinking through solutions on their own. They take ownership. They become problem-solvers.

Of course, I’m always there for the big stuff. But for the day-to-day bumps? This one phrase shifts the power back to the kids.

If you’re looking for simple ways to build student independence, promote critical thinking, and strengthen problem-solving skills in your elementary classroom, give this phrase a try. (With lots and lots of modeling/role-playing at first.) It’s a small shift that leads to big growth.

Why I Keep the Same Bulletin Board Up Every Year (And I’m So Glad I Do)

Confession: I used to stress about bulletin boards. I'd spend way too much time trying to make the layout work, only to realize the board was in a weird, hard-to-reach spot where nothing ever looked quite right. I’d try to divide it. Make it “seasonal.” Rotate displays. It never really worked.

Then I stopped.

A few years ago, I created a board with one simple, powerful message: "The Power of Yet." Bright colors. Big, bold letters. It looked great, and more importantly, it meant something.

At the start of the year, I use it to teach a lesson about growth mindset and the “magical yet.” You can’t read… yet. You don't know how to use a number line… yet. We talk about how our brains grow, and the board becomes a visual reminder of that all year long. I use this book before introducing the board:

And here’s the best part: I leave it up all year. I even leave it up over the summer. (I didn't ask...just did it!)

No more climbing on chairs to staple borders. No more second-guessing a theme. No more back-to-school panic about decorations.

It’s become one of the best classroom decisions I’ve made. Time-saving? Yes. Meaningful? Absolutely. And honestly, the message never gets old.

So if you’ve been thinking about simplifying your bulletin boards, this is your sign. Pick a message that matters—and let it shine all year long.

My New Favorite PD Hack: EdWeb

If you need PD hours and haven’t checked out EdWeb yet… do it! I just discovered it and I’m honestly impressed. It’s completely free, super easy to navigate, and packed with informative sessions on everything from classroom management to tech tips.

You can watch live or catch the replays, and it even tracks your certificates for you. No stress. Just solid professional learning from the comfort of your couch. 🙌

Here is a screenshot of just a few of the offerings so you get a sense of what they are all about.

I just finished the Webinar Top 3 Techniques for Engaging Math Lessons with High-Quality Instruction.

I did come away with some new ideas to implement and a different perspective on my how I implement my Math Warm-Up session. Nothing crazy earth-shattering but helpful. Reminders. I enjoyed it. Felt like I was listening in on my friends sharing some teaching ideas. Best of all? I felt relaxed. No stress whatsoever. My district requires a lot of PD and I am thrilled to have discovered these high quality Webinars. No more scouring for PD...problem solved!

Go peek at edweb.net if you need some hours (or just want fresh ideas). You're welcome! 😉

The One-Minute Summer Emails That Build Lifelong Parent Connections

Every summer, I send out two short, simple emails to my class from the previous year.

They aren't fancy. They aren't long. But they always get replies like:
🧡 “Thank you — that meant a lot.”
📬 “He smiled so big when he saw your name pop up!”
📚 “She will stop by for that hug the first day back!"

✉️ Mid-Summer Check-In (which is now for NJ Teachers):

Hello, Former FABO FIRSTIE!

I hope you’re having an amazing summer! I’ve been thinking about our class and all the wonderful memories we made together. Don’t forget to read a little each day (use your library card!), write a story now and then, and of course — play outside and have FUN! I miss you and I’m so proud of how much you grew this year. 💛 Never forget...YOU ROCK!

✉️ One Week Before School Check-in

Hello, Former FABO FIRSTIE!

Can you believe that in a few short days, you will be a SUPER SECOND GRADER! I'm so excited for you! I'm excited to see you again. Don't forget to stop by the first day for a hug, handshake or a high-five. 💛 You're going to ROCK Second Grade!

✨ WHY THIS WORKS:

• Parents love it. It feels personal, thoughtful, and intentional.

• Kids feel seen. That one message reminds them: “My teacher still cares.”

• It builds your reputation. You’re not just the teacher they had — you become the teacher they remember.

And best of all?
💡 It takes under 1 minute to send each one.

If you send a letter like this to your former students, I’d love to hear how it goes. It’s such a small thing that makes a big difference.

Elmer's Adhesive Spray: Problem Solved

Do you have cinder block or rough surface walls in your classroom that NOTHING sticks to?  Problem solved! Get yourself some Elmer's Adhesive Spray. It's amazing!

Nothing has stuck to that dimply steel door. Ever!  I've used almost every kind of tape/mounting tabs you can think of. The leaves would fall within a minute or two. Even my tried and true Scotch mounting tabs failed me on this surface.

How well does Elmer's Spray Adhesive work? These leaves have been up for almost two months without a single flitter flutter to the floor!

What to know:

1. While it works amazing, it DOES have a very strong odor. That door leads to a courtyard and I'm glad I could spray it outside when kids weren't in room.  I wouldn't use with kids around. Once item hung up though, no lingering odor.

2. The back is so tacky, be careful you don't get it on you. Yes, it comes off but took a few rigorous scrubs with a towel to get off hands.  BUT- I wasn't being careful. Now when I use it, no problem. I'm just extra careful.

3. I've had luck repositioning an item when I'm using it. That's a plus!

4. Items removed easily from all surfaces. No ripping or tearing AND it doesn't leave any residue behind. That was a relief! 

Shop around for best pricing!

Have you used it? Planning on it? Let me know how it works for you.

Interested is reading my other PROBLEM SOLVED posts? You never know if one of my solutions could be just wat you happen to be looking for.

Happy hanging!

Thirty Second Game Changer for ANY Grade Level (Problem Solved)

Can you relate to this scenario?

You're having a wonderful discussion about a picture book with your class. Kids have their hands flying in the air to share their thoughts, opinions and feelings, and are ready to make a connection to their own lives or another book the class has read. Their enthusiasm is palpable.

You call on several kids to share out. Lots of their answers motivate even more hands to shoot up and wave wildly in the air.  

The kids are so excited but being respectful trying hard to signal to you that they're sitting nicely, hand in the air, and ready to share. Some are making noises and you're not sure if they want to share or telling you they're sick! :)

 Sometimes, lots of times, you get those begging eyes that if those same eyes could talk, would be screaming, "PICK ME! Look how I'm sitting crisscross applesauce!"

You glance at the clock and think: Do I have time to call on one more student or do I need to line them up now so we're not late for gym?

You decide to call on one more student.

Said child answers and when you say, "Okay, kids.  That's all we have time for today," you hear moans.  Groans.  Mumbling  Grumbling.

Kids are bummed. Frustrated. You overhear at least one kid say, "It's not fair.  You didn't call on me." They want to be heard.

As they line up, some are coming up to you to share. Others are walking to the line, shoulders slumped and muttering under their breath.

I get it. I feel their disappointment.

At least I used to before implementing this SIMPLE 30 second strategy:

When you end the lesson and are about to transition, simply say, "If you didn't get to share out, turn and share with someone next to you."

INSTANT happiness! It's a SUPER DUPER QUICK FIX!

Students immediately feel validated since they've been heard. They feel like an important community member that had something to contribute to the discussion.

This 30 second trick truly helps foster your classroom community because they're making connections with classmates. A bond. Even small shared connections- one word answers- have forged many a friendship.

It's really a gamechanger!

There is no downside. I do it every time. Try it!  Let me know how it goes.

I'm big on "sharing" and feel it's the most important component of Morning Meeting. Totally contributes to turning your kids into a community! 

One thing I learned the hard way when I started teaching: Your SHARING doesn't always have to be WHOLE CLASS sharing which can be tedious at times.  

To see how I handle sharing in class and maybe find a tip or two you can use, you might want to read the post from a few years ago.  Enjoy!

Goal Setting With Students

Do your students set goals for themselves?  

In my classroom, we have weekly class goals. After we had a student trip over a chair that wasn't pushed in, we made our goal, "Let's push our chairs in every time we get up."

By having the whole class involved, this goal was easy to reach. I'd see kids motion for a friend to push in their chair or see them get up and push in a chair when needed.

A small goal but it solved a safety problem.

I find that my kids love these weekly goals as long as I circle back to them daily and they're purposeful. They need that auditory reminder as well as the visual Weekly Class Goal board. When we revisit their goals frequently- just for a minute or two a day, I find the goals tend to be reached. 

Now I have my class make monthly goals for themselves...in First Grade!  Yep. They can do it! I like to make it into a small "book" and hang up (WITHIN REACH!) so it's a visual reminder and one they can reread and revisit.

Book on Goal Setting

I start off by reading them some books involving goal setting.  Here are a few I like a lot:

Realistic vs. Unrealistic or Not Yet Goals

Next, we talk about REALISTIC goals and what they look like.  I make a chart of goals I set and reached in the past year.  

Then I share some silly UNREALISTIC goals I made in the past.  Often these are silly goals BUT can also be NOT YET goals.

Before we make individual goals, I spend two weeks making class goals.  JUST TWO GOALS...one for each week.  We brainstorm the problems we're having and decide (vote) on the one goal we want to set.

I write it on the board and refer back to it several times throughout the week.  Each day, I reread it with the kids during Morning Meeting.  Then, I refer back to it when I see/notice our class working toward that goal.  "I noticed everyone at this table pushed in their chairs when we lined up for art. I'm so relieved no one tripped over a chair and got hurt. I'm so glad we picked that goal. (Then I'll motion toward the goal ot actually read it)

Making Our Own Goals

Then we make this simple booklet to display in the classroom.  Here's a peek at a sample:

Note: These two videos might not load on mobile.

Revisiting Goals Daily

Then, each day, I'll ask the kids to close their eyes and think about their goals they made for the month.

"Are you getting closer to reaching the goal?" "Is there something I can do to help you reach your goal?" "Is there a problem your having that surprises you?" "Did you reach your goal?" 

Then I have the kids share out sometimes with a friend, deskmate, or the whole class.  This takes 3-5 minutes a day but is essential to staying FOCUSED on the goal and keeping it in sight.

This year, I'm making the books a bit more "formal" like above so they can double as a room decoration! Why not?

It's been a goal of mine over the last year! :)

Happy goal making!

An Organizational App I Can't Live Without (Problem Solved!)

I have only been using UTIFUL for a few hours and am BEYOND excited about it!

I wanted to jump on here in case it could be a game changer for you, too.  It's advertised as a "Photo Sorter for Neat Freaks."

My Problem: I take a ton of pics and screenshots with my phone. Stuff I need/want organized like screen shots of recipes. So, I put them into a folder in my phone. Good?

Not really.

Because the way iPhones are set up, you can have that shot or pic in your folder BUT it still stays on your camera roll. You delete from there, it also deletes in the folder.

So I have 1000's of photos on my camera roll. Frustrating.

Yes, I back up to the cloud. But I need lots of things on my phone and don't want to scroll the day away.

This app allows you to store photos in folders on it AND then it deletes original from camera roll.  (It asks first just in case you don't want it done.)

No learning curve. Self-explanatory. EASY.  

It is 19.99 a year but I feel it's so worth it.

Says for small businesses but anyone who takes and needs pics on phone will benefit.

If you get it, let me know what you think!

Freebie Alert!

I have a new product that I'm excited about!  

It solved a few problems for me: What to do with my overflowing sentence strips and how to display projects in my teeny tiny room?  (And a quick project is best, yes?) So I came up with Hip Strips!  A fun way to review math and display it.  They fit anywhere and really brighten my room up super quick.  Great for Math with Self for Daily 3 and Do-Nows, too.  Honestly, I just feel sunnier when I see them!

I'm making a Language Arts packet for First Grade and a combo math/language arts K one too.  They'll be up by next Friday.  BUT- I wanted to give a freebie away now so I picked one that could be used in K and 1 now.  Grab it if you want it!

Looking for other Freebies?  Click here to see them.