"Just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one." Welcome to Beginning Teacher Talk, the weekly podcast hosted by Dr. Lori Friesen, where we talk about all of the things you wish you learned in college about teaching elementary school. We feature kid-tested classroom management techniques, organizational strategies, creative ways to motivate your students, how to work with colleagues, seasonal gems, and how to de-stress and eliminate the overwhelm that too often accompanies your first years of teaching.
If you're a beginning teacher dealing with students who constantly ignore you, here are two things you need to know: you're not alone, and it doesn't mean you're a bad teacher. Need some good news? I…
While many of us use books to support lessons or create a calm, engaging moment with our class, did you know there are other powerful ways to use them? Children’s literature isn’t just about telling …
As you set up your classroom and wait for students to arrive, a different kind of noise often fills the silence: worry. Teachers carry a lot on their shoulders, and sometimes that worry grows loud en…
Classroom management isn’t just a concern for homeroom teachers. Specials teachers face their own unique set of challenges: rotating classes, varying expectations, and limited time to build relations…
With such long and exhausting days, teachers need more opportunities to relax and declutter their minds, and meditation does just that. It's a powerful tool that allows educators to recharge, reduce …
One thing I always emphasize is that teachers are lifelong learners. They’re constantly evolving, growing, and striving to be their best. Because this mindset plays such an important role in a teache…
Tapping into your creative side during summer break is a great way to develop engaging strategies that make a real impact on your students and classroom community. Five-minute field trips are one of …
When you’re part of the Classroom Management Club, you’re not just exchanging ideas and strategies; you’re sharing purpose, strength, and the kind of support that only fellow educators can offer. Las…
I always dreamed of creating a space for beginning teachers and the Classroom Management Club has exceeded all expectations. It has grown into a thriving community that turns support and encouragemen…
Beginning teachers imagine that with experience will come more confidence, stronger classroom management, and the ability to handle challenging students and situations with ease. And while that can c…
When you’re just starting out as a teacher, there’s so much to learn and never quite enough time. So, what can you do to help yourself feel more prepared and ready to tackle the back-to-school season…
Your first year of teaching often feels like pure survival mode. It’s usually not until your second year that you can finally take a breath, make intentional plans, and start growing as an educator. …
Let’s be honest: teaching gets tough. As a beginning teacher, you're stepping into a world where success isn’t defined by perfection, but by perseverance. There will be challenges — tough students, l…
Even with several years of classroom experience working alongside other teachers, stepping into your own classroom comes with a whole new set of challenges. From classroom setup and organization to b…
Teachers often pour so much time and energy into supporting their students that they forget about forming strong relationships with their peers. Navigating adult connections can be unexpectedly trick…
Our brains are wired to worry, so it’s only natural for you to wonder how you'll handle the unknown of the coming school year. Using two real-life teacher examples, I’ll show how fear and worry about…
The first year of teaching is a mix of excitement, nerves, and a whole lot of questions. So if you’ve just graduated and are looking for a supportive way to prepare and feel a little less stressed, t…
Beginning teachers often get so caught up in the way their classroom looks and forget its true purpose: functionality. Even veteran teachers can benefit from reflecting on their current classroom set…
Teacher interviews can be intimidating and often feels like you're stepping into the unknown. But the hidden secret to a successful interview doesn’t show up on a resume, a lesson plan you once taugh…
The transition from student teacher to full-time teacher can be overwhelming, and many new teachers feel stressed during their first year. This is often due to the gap between the theoretical knowled…