Happy Teaching with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
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Connect with The Kindergarten Connection on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekindergartenconnection
Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com
Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com
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Episode 26: How to Actually Teach Sharing in Pre-K & Kindergarten
Episode 26
Monday, November 10, 2025 • Duration 10:51
In this episode, we’re talking all about one of the most common challenges in early childhood: sharing and turn-taking. If your students are constantly grabbing, pouting, or saying “But I had it first!”, you’re not alone. And they’re not being “bad”, they’re still learning.
We’ll walk through developmentally appropriate ways to actually teach this skill, without relying on vague phrases like “Just take turns!” or “Use your words.”
Whether you’re looking for social stories, problem-solving visuals, or just a little encouragement, this episode is for you!
✨ You'll learn:
Why sharing is hard for young children (and what they need instead)
The importance of teaching turn-taking before problems arise
How to use modeling, puppets, visuals, and specific language to guide students through social situations
Encouragement for the slow-and-steady process of building social skills
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
Episode 25: Let’s Talk About “No More Criss Cross Applesauce”
Episode 25
Monday, November 3, 2025 • Duration 10:10
Do your students struggle to sit still during circle time? You’re not alone and you’re not doing anything wrong.
In today’s episode, we’re talking about why “criss cross applesauce” doesn’t work for every child and what to do instead.
From seating choices to circle time tips that actually increase engagement, we’ll explore small changes that make a big impact on your students’ attention, comfort, and participation.
✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
Why “criss cross applesauce” isn’t developmentally appropriate for all students
How to offer alternative seating options that help kids focus without adding chaos
Circle time strategies that boost listening and engagement
What to try when kids can’t sit still without punishment or power struggles
✨ Inside the Print and Play Club: Members get access to the Criss Cross webinar, plus classroom visuals, behavior tools, and flexible seating resources.
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Episode 16: 3 Simple Ways to Practice Name Writing
Episode 16
Sunday, August 31, 2025 • Duration 07:17
Episode 16: 3 Simple Ways to Practice Name Writing
Helping young learners write their names is one of the first big milestones of the year. One that builds both confidence and classroom routines. But it doesn’t have to involve fancy prep or stressful drills.
In this episode, Alex shares 3 low-prep, meaningful ways to help students practice name writing throughout the day; without taking away from play and exploration.
✨ You’ll hear:
Why name writing is the perfect early-year focus
How to build name practice into arrival time, centers, and transitions
A reminder that simple routines are often the most effective
Encouragement to celebrate progress over perfection
Whether you're teaching Pre-K or Kindergarten, these tips will help you support name writing in a playful, developmentally appropriate way.
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Episode 15: Go Slow to Go Fast – Encouraging Independence in Pre-K & Kindergarten
Episode 15
Sunday, August 24, 2025 • Duration 09:04
Episode 15: Go Slow to Go Fast – Encouraging Independence in Pre-K & Kindergarten
It’s tempting to rush through routines in those first weeks. Especially when you could just tie the shoes, open the snack, or fix the problem yourself. But real classroom calm comes when we go slow first and build student independence from the ground up.
In this episode, Alex shares how to create confident, capable learners by modeling expectations, using visuals, and resisting the urge to always step in.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why slowing down now leads to smoother days later
The role of clear, consistent routines in fostering independence
How visuals and structured choices empower early learners
A mindset shift that helps you coach not fix student challenges
This is your gentle reminder: slowing down doesn’t mean you’re behind. It means you’re building something that lasts.
Episode 14: Should We Let Things Go More in the First Days?
Episode 14
Sunday, August 17, 2025 • Duration 09:47
Episode 14: Should We Let Things Go More in the First Days?
In those first few days of school, we want students to feel safe, excited, and connected. Sometimes that leads us to wonder… Should I let some things slide while they adjust?
In this episode, Alex gently but clearly explains why the answer is no, and how setting expectations early (in a kind, consistent way) is one of the most supportive things we can do for our students.
✨ You’ll hear:
Why the routines you allow now become the routines that last
The truth about why it’s harder to tighten expectations later
How teaching structure actually builds trust and comfort
Encouragement to stay steady, even when it feels strict
This episode is your pep talk for showing up with kindness and clarity during the first days of school.
🔗 Mentioned in this episode
🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:
✅ Back-to-school routines + visuals
✅ Behavior support tools for transitions and expectations
✅ First week plans to help you stay consistent (without burning out)
💛 If this episode reassured you in your classroom leadership, pass it along to a teacher friend navigating the first week too!
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Episode 13: Tested Teacher Tips for the First Day of School
Episode 13
Sunday, August 10, 2025 • Duration 11:30
Whether it’s your first, first day or your tenth, that back-to-school butterfly feeling never fully goes away. And that’s okay!
The first day of school sets the tone. With a few simple, tested tips, you can make it smooth, calm, and connection-filled.
In this episode, Alex shares five tried-and-true strategies to help you feel more prepared and confident heading into Day One with your new little learners.
✨ You’ll hear:
How to make meaningful first-day connections at the door
The one small prep step that eases nerves (and reduces chaos)
Why you should model everything - yes, even glue stick use
Favorite ways to use books for calm and connection
The power of flexibility, and why done is better than perfect
Whether you’re prepping your first classroom or just looking for a reset, this episode will help you start strong with heart, not hustle.
(A teacher-favorite planning tool for mapping your year with confidence!)
🧰 Inside the Print and Play Club:
✅ Ready-to-go first week activities
✅ Classroom routines and visuals
✅ Playful, standards-aligned centers to keep your planning stress-free
Episode 12: Make Your Day Count – Early Childhood Schedule Tips
Episode 12
Monday, August 4, 2025 • Duration 09:16
Episode 12: Make Your Day Count – Early Childhood Schedule Tips
Trying to fit everything into a Pre-K or Kindergarten day can feel like solving a puzzle… blindfolded… with snack time looming. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone!
In this episode, Alex shares practical tips for building a classroom schedule that actually works—one that supports connection, play, learning, and calm (yes, even with clean-up time and pull-outs on the horizon).
✨ You’ll hear:
The 5 key components of an effective early childhood schedule
Why there’s no perfect layout - and that’s actually a good thing
How to balance whole-group and small-group instruction
Encouragement if your days feel too short or too packed
Plus, a free tool to help you figure out what to teach and when.
Episode 11: Letting Go of Assigned Classroom Seating in Pre-K & Kindergarten
Episode 11
Sunday, July 27, 2025 • Duration 10:59
Episode 11: Letting Go of Assigned Classroom Seating in Pre-K & Kindergarten
What if your students didn’t have assigned seats at all?
In this episode, Alex explores the benefits and challenges of moving away from traditional assigned seating in early childhood classrooms. From building independence to supporting self-regulation, you’ll hear how flexible seating routines can empower students while simplifying your daily flow.
✨ You’ll learn:
Why ditching assigned seats can boost classroom community
What routines and structures help this model work smoothly
Tips for introducing flexible seating with intention
How to support students who need consistency and predictability
Whether you’re curious about this shift or already experimenting with it, this episode will help you think through the logistics with confidence.
✅ Play-based centers ✅ Intentional teaching tools that support curiosity and creativity ✅ Learning Center Signs
📍Join the Club:
Episode 9: 10 Ways to Make Your Classroom More Playful
Episode 9
Sunday, July 13, 2025 • Duration 15:11
Episode 9: 10 Ways to Make Your Classroom More Playful
Play isn't just for free choice time—it’s a powerful approach to learning. In this episode, Alex breaks down 10 simple, meaningful ways to make your classroom more playful, even within the structure of a full-day schedule.
From mindset shifts to hands-on strategies, you’ll walk away with ideas you can use right away to boost engagement, independence, and JOY in your classroom.
✨ You’ll hear:
Why playful learning doesn’t mean less structure or rigor
Easy ways to spark curiosity in daily routines
How to create space for play without adding to your plate
Favorite materials, phrases, and planning tools to support playful learning
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your playful toolkit, there’s something here for you!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
💛 If this episode gave you a confidence boost to slow down and model, share it with a fellow early childhood teacher who’s building independence too.
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
💛 If this episode helped calm your first-day jitters, pass it along to a fellow teacher who’s prepping too!
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
If this episode helped you rethink your daily flow, share it with a teacher friend who could use the support!
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
💛 If this episode gave you confidence in your playful approach, share it with a teacher who needs the same reminder!
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
💛 If this episode gave you a new idea or confirmed something you’re already doing—share it with a teacher friend who believes in learning through play!
The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!
Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.
Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!
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