"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.
When new teachers are met with feelings of isolation, unprepared realities of the classroom, and unsupportive guidance or mentorship, it often leads to teacher attrition. In today's episode, I dive d…
New teachers often leave university feeling unprepared for the realities of the classroom, struggling to bridge the gap between theory and practice. In this episode, we explore three of the biggest c…
Are you struggling to keep your students focused? In this episode, I’m sharing simple, research-backed strategies to help students build their attention skills in fun and meaningful ways. You'll lear…
After preparing for weeks for state assessments, teachers often get to the day and still have one question left to answer - What do I do with my students after taking the big test? If you have this q…
When it comes to preparing students for state standardized tests, learning and reviewing academic content is just part of the preparation. The other big piece is mindset. In today's episode, I'm shar…
If standardized tests make you anxious, you’re not alone! In this episode, we’re continuing our test prep series by shifting focus to math. I’m sharing five powerful test-taking strategies to help st…
As spring approaches, both teachers and students look forward to warmer weather and the excitement of summer, but there's one big source of stress: standardized testing. These tests bring high stakes…
We feel so much pressure in our work environment, personal life, and from society. It's difficult to manage all of those emotions and demands. In this episode, I'm sharing why school is the best plac…
February can feel long and gloomy, leaving teachers unmotivated. That’s why it’s so important to bring excitement, joy, and purpose into your days. In this episode, I’m sharing practical ways to help…
Teachers are great at showing kindness to others but often struggle to extend it to themselves, leading to chronic fatigue and burnout. In this episode, we explore why self-kindness is essential and …
Modeling kindness is a powerful way to make a lasting impact, which is why it’s essential for teachers to show kindness and compassion to their students every day. In this episode, I’m sharing 10 sim…
Focusing on respect and kindness can transform your classroom management and foster a stronger sense of community. While academics are important, weaving fun and creative ways to teach kindness to ki…
With limited opportunities to release energy during the school day, it’s no surprise that focusing, retaining information, and staying engaged can be a challenge for students. Your first instinct mig…
It’s human nature to think negative thoughts, but the key to not letting it make you feel defeated, frustrated, or doubt your ability to teach is to learn how to reframe those thoughts. In today's ep…
Focusing on the positive can transform your classroom by highlighting students' strengths and fostering a supportive environment. In today’s episode, I share 10 simple strategies for shifting your fo…
Incorporating humor in the classroom is a small strategy that has the power to transform your classroom atmosphere. Humor isn’t just telling knock-knock jokes whenever you have time to fill between a…
This Christmas, give yourself the gift of time with strategies to achieve work-life balance as a teacher. In this episode, I share five powerful shifts to help you streamline your planning, set bound…
Teaching English Language Learners (ELLs) can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when it comes to building their confidence to speak and participate in class. In this episode, I’m sharing …
Are you tired of straining your voice and managing a noisy classroom? In this episode, I’m sharing how nonverbal cues can transform your classroom management. Silent signals can lower noise levels, c…
Teachers in my Classroom Management Club always ask for strategies to help handle student behaviors, which is why classroom management is such a hot topic on this podcast. While I will continue to pr…