#64 Teaching Kindergarten Online? Yes, It Works—with Joy, Props, & Puppets (and Nancy Grim!)

Many educators (and parents) believe that teaching kindergarten online is impossible. Young children are assumed to lack the attention span, tech skills, or maturity to thrive in a virtual setting. During the pandemic, even seasoned teachers struggled to keep their youngest students engaged.

In this episode, Nancy Grim, a veteran early childhood educator from Tucson Unified Virtual Academy, brings a burst of energy and creativity to bust that myth wide open. With a background in theater and a deep understanding of child development, Nancy shares how she transforms her virtual classroom into a joyful, engaging, and student-centered space for kindergartners and second graders. From puppets and props to emoji-based emotional check-ins and student-led tech tutorials, Nancy shows how virtual learning can be more than effective—it can be magical.

Listeners will learn:

• Why puppets, costumes, and unexpected props boost engagement and emotional connection for young learners.
• How to build tech independence and classroom culture—even in kindergarten.
• How second graders can lead peer learning and contribute to a thriving virtual community.
• How embracing creativity and play helps students make academic and cultural connections from home.

If you’re an early elementary teacher, school leader, or curriculum designer wondering how to support younger learners online, Nancy’s practical strategies will spark ideas and shift your thinking. Share this episode with a colleague, try one new engagement prop in your next session, and remember: joy is a tool, not a luxury, in digital classrooms.

Episode Links

• Tucson Unified Virtual Academy

Host Links

• Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.
• Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.