Rainbow Skies for New Teachers

Let's hear from you! Text us! Schools can be super inspiring and fun or they can be a total downer (trust us, we have seen it all in our teaching careers). It is so important that teachers come to work every day feeling happy and supported because it is crucial for the well-being and overall vibe of the staff. When your team at work feel appreciated and enjoys being part of the staff team, that energy reflects in the amazing experiences we create for our students. Today, we share some of our favourite ways to show teachers and colleagues that you care. We chat about: Building a school culture that values each other and teacher well-being is a key to success. Not only will teachers feel supported and valued, but the culture will also rub off on the students in our care. Before you head off, please share this episode with another teacher. Implementing these ideas is always so much more fun when you have a partner in crime. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Free Random Acts of Kindness Flyers Ready-to-print Teacher Morale templates (find a soup roster, positive notes and staff shoutout wall inside this package). APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! What is the best way to teach reading? Today, literacy specialist Malia Hollowell talks to us about best literacy practise. Malia firmly believes that you don’t need to be a reading specialist to be an exceptional reading teacher. In this episode, she shares tools and strategies that will help all teachers (and therefore students) achieve success. During our chat, we talk about: We also touch on some of the literacy trends as well as things teachers have been doing for decades and ask Malia if we need to keep them or ditch them all together! This is a fun episode that will provide you with inspiration, confidence and best practice strategies when teaching reading. Before you head off, please share this episode with another teacher because sharing is caring! Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Connect with Malia on Instagram Sound Mapping Freebie Grab the Science of Reading Quickstart Bundle Get a copy of our FREE guide: How to Efficiently Run Reading Groups APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! Ok, we admit it: Report Writing isn’t the most interesting topic in the world of teaching… but we can promise you that once you have listened to this episode, you will be armed with the best productivity hacks that will see your reports being written and completed in record speed! Managing your time and working productively is the key to writing your reports in less time. Today we are going to talk about these 12 strategies that have helped (and still help) us get those reports written and handed into leadership: When it comes to reports, procrastination isn’t your friend. Take these tips and get stuck into those reports - it will be over before you know it! If you know someone who would benefit from this episode, please share it - we are all about teachers helping teachers here at Rainbow Sky. You can access more report writing strategies and tips by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in today’s episode Join Transform your First Years The Report Companion Hour of Power template Join our Podcast Facebook Group This episode is sponsored by Transform your First Years – A membership for new teachers that will fast-track your expertise + confidence – because teacher life is a team sport! APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! What is the key to success as a beginning teacher? Today we are talking with Vanessa, and she strongly feels that asking for help will propel you forward to become a confident first year teacher (and we agree). It isn’t always easy asking for help but as Vanessa says, progress is the goal and getting the support we need is a much quicker way to get closer to that goal. Vanessa sees any challenge she has faced so far in her teaching degree as an adventure, and we love this mindset. She talks about how the beginning of her career was memorable, rewarding, and eye-opening, how she developed relationships with her students, and how she dealt with behaviour as a casual teacher PLUS some of her favourite go-to resources (they are all linked below). If you are a new teacher, a casual teacher or just a teacher who is looking for a little confidence, don’t skip past this episode. If you know a teacher that’s relief or casual teaching, share this episode with them. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Connect with Vanessa on Instagram - @vanessavaccarella Grab a free copy of Number of the Day Get our ‘Get Organised’ checklist A freebie for Casual Teachers Get support during your first years as a teacher inside Transform Your First Years APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! The benefits of music in education have been scientifically proven. Today, we will talk about the practical ways to use this research to create a bigger impact in your classroom. Ricky from Amplify Music Education joins us and talks us through all the ways Music is beneficial to the students sitting in your classroom as well as some practical ways we can implement it. We talk about: Ricky’s passion and energy is contagious! We hope you love this episode as much as we loved recording it. Before you head off, please share this episode with another teacher (or even your principal) and help spread the word about how beneficial music can be for our students' brains. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Enjoy a free trial at Amplify Music Education Connect with Ricky via his website, on Twitter or through Instagram APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! We are dropping this episode a little early to help you get organised - What are some fun ways I can start the new school term on that first day after the holidays? The first day back after a school break can be challenging for everyone – teachers and students! We are, more likely than not, in holiday mode. The first day is the perfect time to reconnect with your class, find out about their holidays, reestablish the expectations of learning/working habits, and have a bit of fun together. In today’s episode, we brainstorm some ideas that have worked for us that you may like to use in your classroom too: These are some favourites we have used in our classroom over the years. We hope your students enjoy them, too! If you are finding Rainbow Skies for New Teachers helpful, we would love it you could share the pod with a teacher friend or two. You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Classroom detectives freebieGrowth Mindset 3D displayGrowth Mindset Yeti’sLighting up the Year 3D displayRecount templates Learn how to save time with our ebook: 8 Secrets to Help Save Time in your Teacher Week. APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! Classroom routines and procedures can be the magic link that can help your classroom run smoothly. They not only help build your class community and get your students working as a team, but they can save you so much time in your day when done well. Today, we chat with Heidi and Emily from the Teacher Approved Podcast. They are passionate about helping teachers set up classroom routines and procedures to help with classroom management success. In this episode we talk about: Setting up classroom routines can make your teacher life so much easier - and this episode will help you do that! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a teacher friend! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Teacher Approved PodcastHallway Procedures freebiewebsiteinstagramhere Get more support with classroom procedures and routines with our masterclasses and checklists inside Transform your First Years. APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! As teachers, we know engaging our students is key to enriching their learning experiences. That's why we're here to lend a helping hand with five practical strategies for revving up your classroom vibe: Incorporating these five strategies into your teaching toolkit can increase student engagement and cultivate an involved learning community. Remember, every classroom is unique, so don't hesitate to adapt these ideas to suit your students' interests and learning styles. Together, let's empower our young learners to thrive and succeed! If you loved or could relate to this episode, follow and review our pod to stay updated with the latest content. And send us a post on social media so we can say a personal thank you! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in today’s episode 8 Taylor Swift inspired lessons for your classroom This episode is sponsored by Transform your First Years – A membership for new teachers that will fast-track your expertise + confidence – because teacher life is a team sport! APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! Harmony Week (previously known as Harmony Day) is celebrated in Australia during March. It is about celebrating cultural diversity, tolerance and inclusiveness of all Australians. The main message of Harmony Week is, everyone belongs in our Australian society. The message of Harmony Week is such an important one to teach the next generation, and it is no surprise that teachers all over Australia are looking for ways to implement lessons about this message in their classrooms. Need more help planning Harmony Day / Harmony Week celebrations? We have got you covered. This free guide is for teachers and lists a range of simple yet effective activities to teach your students about the core meaning and values of Harmony Week in Australia. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a teacher friend. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode: FREE Harmony Day lesson ideas eBookFree Harmony Mini HeartsHarmony Day FlipbookThe Harmony Day ProjectI’m Australian Too Book Study - Grades 1 & 2I’m Australian Too Book Study - Grades 3 & 4Books for Harmony Day blog post Start your free trial at Amplify Music Education APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

Let's hear from you! Text us! Have you heard people online, around the staffroom, in teacher friend circles talking about the Science of Reading? It is a hot topic right now and for good reason. Today, we are joined by literacy specialist Sara Marye from the Stellar Teaching Company. Sara dives into the Science of Reading and what makes it relevant in our classrooms in 2024. We discuss: Sara is an open book and generously answers every question that pops into our minds as we dive into the Science of Reading. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a teacher friend! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Scarborough’s Reading Rope Sara’s Podcast - The Stellar Teacher Podcast Sara’s Podcast series - Small Steps to SOR Connect wit Sara via her website or instagram Freebie - Strategies to help run your reading groups effectively

Let's hear from you! Text us! How can you fit everything into the school day? Time is the one thing ALL teachers battle, but we are here to help you make the most out of the hours in your teaching day. Let’s talk about changing our “Time Mindset” and how less is often more with our 7 strategies: School life can be so busy - but is ‘busy’ best for the students in our classrooms? We hope these ideas help you slow down and worry less when it comes to fitting everything in! This episode of Rainbow Skies for New Teachers is brought to you by our new teacher membership, Transform your First Years. Join us here. You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode: 5 FREE Maths Fluency Games Learn more about Transform your First Years

Let's hear from you! Text us! Ever wondered about the superpower of an Occupational Therapist or OT? Today, we enjoyed talking to Dave Jereb, a trailblazer as a paediatric occupational therapist in Australia. With over two decades of experience, Dave is an accomplished practitioner and a true visionary in his field. His unwavering passion for delivering transformative solutions for challenging behaviour alongside his holistic approach has earned him recognition as a thought leader. From his award-winning ‘Move About activity cards’ to his insightful book ‘Challenging the Story’, Dave’s contributions are reshaping the landscape of occupational therapy. In this episode, we chat to Dave about: This episode contains so many nuggets of wisdom - please share it with a teacher friend that you think would also love this conversation. You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode: Check out Dave’s best-selling book: Challenging the Story Connect with Dave on Instagram Brain Break ideas for your classroom Join us inside Transform your First Years

Let's hear from you! Text us! Math anxiety can be a significant barrier for many students, causing feelings of fear, stress, and avoidance when it comes to math-related tasks. Children may suffer from math anxiety for various reasons, including past negative experiences, pressure to perform, a lack of confidence in their abilities, or a perception that math is too difficult or uninteresting. This anxiety can impact their academic performance and overall attitude towards mathematics, making it essential for educators and parents to address and support students in overcoming these challenges. Today, we share 8 strategies to help you support students suffering from Maths anxiety, particularly in the lead-up to standardised tests such as NAPLAN. We discuss the following ideas: Forewarning students before an event that may cause anxiety such as NAPLANvant to children’s lives. By incorporating these ideas into your classroom Maths routine, you can help them develop a positive attitude towards Maths and build their confidence in this important subject. If you loved or could relate to this episode, don’t forget to follow and review our pod to stay updated with the latest content. And, send us a post on social media so we can say a personal thank you! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in today’s episode FREE Multiplication Flip it game FREE Division Bus Stop resource 7 Awesome Maths Games for the Classroom Write the Room Investigations Language of Maths Craft

Let's hear from you! Text us! So often, we only touch base with parents when there is a problem, whether it be academic, social, or behavioural. Today, we chat about how could we make time to communicate with parents about what their children are doing well outside the regular parent-teacher interviews and reports. We know teacher life is hectically busy and this may seem like just another thing to fit in! So, keeping this in mind, we have put together a few simple ideas for you to communicate with parents to celebrate their children that won’t take hours of your time. Look at this list like a menu, pick and choose what you feel will work for you and your situation: Positive communication is a vital part of developing strong relationships with parents, which ultimately benefits the students in your care. If you are finding Rainbow Skies for New Teachers helpful, we would love if you could share the pod with a teacher friend or two. You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Free Positive Calls / Emails home template If you are listening to this in real time, get 20% off our signature membership Transform your First Years (offer valid until Feb 19th, 2024).

Let's hear from you! Text us! We have an awesome BONUS episode that you will not want to miss! Today, we are talking with Brittany, a teacher who has been in the classroom for two years. Brittany is so open and genuine in sharing her struggles and wins - we think you will relate to many of them, too (we certainly did). In this episode, we dive into the many struggles of new teachers, how it is absolutely normal to feel that way and some pearls of wisdom that can help overcome some of these difficulties. Brittany also shares how she works in an MC class and how she handles all the different needs and challenges that are thrown at her daily. Brittany is a positive shining light - you will love this episode. If you know a teacher just starting out, especially one that may have neurodivergent students, share this episode with them! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Connect with Brittany inside our Transform your First Years community or email us, and we can send you her email address. Class Name Word Search (freebie) Learn more about Transform your First Years

Let's hear from you! Text us! In this episode, Ashleigh chats with Maddi, a teacher who has just finished her first year teaching in a Year 1-2 class. We wanted to ask Maddi how she found her first year, her struggles, and if she had any advice for those who will walk in her shoes as a first-year teacher this year. Maddi shares so many insightful ideas, including her powerful ‘why’ that explains why she became a teacher in the first place. Maddi’s enthusiasm and passion shine through, and we are sure you will love this episode! If you know a teacher just starting that would find this episode helpful, please share it with them so we can help as many teachers as possible! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Connect with Maddi @miss_pentons_classroom Learn more about Transform your First Years

Let's hear from you! Text us! The back-to-school season brings teachers an endless list of considerations. If you are like us, you've got lists, ideas, and school things buzzing in your head most of the time! Beyond the classroom setup and all the back-to-school admin, it is also super important to spend time planning fun and helpful lessons for your students in the first week. Because, as you know, the students are the heart of our classrooms! Here are 5 FREE back-to-school activities you can use during that first week: Classroom DetectiveNumber of the DayWe All Smile in the Same Language BannerA Little Bit About MeAll About Me EaselsUse the code PICKLE to get the resource, All About Me 3D easels for FREE at the checkout - Valid until Feb 5th, 2024. If you know a teacher who would find this episode helpful, please share it with them so we can help as many teachers as we can! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Yay I’m a Teacher Freebie‘Whoever you Are’Get Transform Your First Years Membership with a 20% discount

Let's hear from you! Text us! Imposter syndrome is a real thing! But it is time for you to kick that train of thought to the curb because it isn’t doing you any favours. The good news is you are in the right place to do just that! Have you ever felt like you don’t know what you are doing? Do you feel you aren’t qualified or have enough experience for your job? Do you think soon enough my colleagues are going to discover you're not doing an excellent job and it is all going to be over? THIS IS IMPOSTER SYNDROME. Today, we share our experiences with Imposter Syndrome and some strategies that have helped us, including: If you loved or could relate to this episode, don’t forget to follow and review our pod to stay updated with the latest content. And send us a post on social media so we can say a personal thank you! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead,Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Teacher Takeaway PodcastRainbow of Possibilities affirmationsTransform your First Yearshere This episode is sponsored by Transform your First Years – A membership for new teachers that will fast-track your expertise + confidence – because teacher life is a team sport!

Let's hear from you! Text us! As we head into the new year, an attractive and welcoming classroom environment is often top of mind. But, the thing you have to remember is that it is you, as the teacher, that makes the classroom. For some teachers, it is important to set up their classroom in a certain way at the beginning of the school year. The urge to go all out in your first few years of teaching may be strong. If that is your personality type, go for it! If you are more the low-key type, embrace it, and if you feel you should have more, trust us when we say your room is just perfect. Today, we are chatting about our favourite classroom setup hacks to make your life easier. Because a podcast is not a visual platform, check out this blog post if you would like some visuals for what we are chatting about: https://rainbowskycreations.com/classroom-display-and-setup-hacks/ If you loved or could relate to this episode, don’t forget to follow and review our pod to stay updated with the latest content. And send us a post on social media so we can say a personal thank you! You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, 💕Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Watch the replays of our New Teacher Challenge on Instagram Some FREE classroom displays: Kindness QuoteRainbow Motivation PostersFuture World Changers Door DisplayWe all Smile in the Same Language QuoteLearn more about Crayola’s Creativity week here This episode is sponsored by Transform your First Years - A membership for new teachers that will fast-track your expertise + confidence - because teacher life is a team sport!

Let's hear from you! Text us! Teaching is an exciting ride, but it comes with its fair share of worries, especially for newcomers. From connecting with students to balancing work and life, these concerns can be daunting. New teachers often grapple with common worries that can impact their confidence in and out of the classroom. But we are here to help that… During the show, we discuss the following new teacher worries (that we hear most commonly from new teachers) PLUS we share some of our top solutions to help you with these common stressors: Before you go, don’t forget to FOLLOW and REVIEW our pod - it would mean so much to us. You can access more teacher strategies, classroom inspiration and a wealth of resources by visiting our website www.rainbowskycreations.com. Rainbows ahead, 💕 Ashleigh and Alisha Resources mentioned in this episode Join our New Teacher Workshop on January 9th, 10th, 11th. Grab your free workbook here. Replays will be available on our Instagram feed Ice breaker game ideas FREE Classroom Management Masterclass More Lesson planning help and hacks 10 Ways to Assess Your Students Learn more about Crayola’s Creativity Week here