About PD By the Pool: An Audio Course for New Kindergarten Teachers
Welcome to PD By the Pool: an Audio Course for new kindergarten teachers! My name is Zeba McGibbon and I’m the creator and founder of Kindergarten Cafe. My mission is to help kindergarten teachers thrive from arrival to dismissal. This 10-episode audio course will walk you through all that you need to know to have a successful first-year teaching kindergarten. Be sure to check your email for the notebook to take notes while you listen, as well as the other amazing bonuses included! Happy listening and reach out anytime with questions! Just send me an email thekindergartencafe@gmail.com or a DM on Instagram @kindergartencafe.
Having routines is one of the most important part of not only Kindergarten, but teaching in general. However, teaching routines in Kindergarten is crucial. Especially in the first few weeks of school. Setting clear expectations sets the tone for the year and reduces behaviors along the way.
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Classroom Routines
3:59 Teaching Procedures and Routines
7:57 First Routines: Attention Getters and Clean Up
10:55 Morning Meeting and Line Up Routine
11:45 Bathroom Routine
12:47 Additional Routines: Morning, Packing Up, and Jobs
Resources:
The Best Morning Routine for any Kindergarten Classroom (https://kindergartencafe.org/the-best-morning-routine-for-any-kindergarten-classroom/)
5 Classroom Routines to Plan Out Before School Starts (https://kindergartencafe.org/5-classroom-routines-to-plan-out-before-school-starts/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
12 May 2024
8. First SEL Lessons
In this lesson, I want to provide you with some beginning of the year Social Emotional Learning lessons that you may not have when you first get started!
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Social-Emotional Lessons
1:43 Importance of Looking at the Learning
3:35 Significance of Listening to Others
4:36 Teaching Turn and Talk Strategy
6:56 Practicing Turn and Talk Activities
7:57 Games for Practicing Listening Skills
9:43 Introduction to Independence in the Classroom
Resources Mentioned:
Teaching Listening Skills at the Start of the Year (https://kindergartencafe.org/teaching-listening-skills-at-the-start-of-the-year/)
How to Set Up a Calm Corner in Your Classroom or Home (https://kindergartencafe.org/how-to-set-up-a-calm-corner-in-your-classroom-or-home/)
Supporting Kids at Recess Kindergarten and First Grade (https://kindergartencafe.org/supporting-kids-at-recess-kindergarten-and-first-grade/)
Workshop: Social Emotional Learning is as Easy as 1, 2, 3! (https://kindergartencafe.org/product/workshop-social-emotional-learning-is-as-easy-as-1-2-3/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
12 May 2024
10. Proactive Family Communication
This episode provides you some tips and tricks to set yourself up for success with your families so that you avoid issues with parents later on in the year.
Timestamps:
0:00 Proactive Family Communication
4:59 Visit Day and First Day Reflection
7:38 Curriculum Night and Parent Hopes
9:16 Weekly Learning Updates
10:33 Proactive Issue Resolution
10:39 Utilizing Seesaw for Communication
Resources Mentioned:
Getting Ready for Parent-Teacher Conferences – Episode 2 (https://kindergartencafe.org/getting-ready-for-parent-teacher-conferences-episode-2/)
Tips for Difficult Parent-Teacher Conversations (https://kindergartencafe.org/tips-for-difficult-parent-teacher-conversations/)
A New Kind of School Open House (https://kindergartencafe.org/a-new-kind-of-school-open-house/)
3 Ways to Improve Communicating with Classroom Families (https://kindergartencafe.org/3-ways-to-improve-communicating-with-classroom-families/)
Partnering with Families: Home-to-School Connection Bundle! (https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Partnering-with-Families-Home-to-School-Connection-Bundle-9922449)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
12 May 2024
6. Transitions in Kindergarten
Transitions can be times during the day that are the most unstructured, which can easily cause behavior issues. In this episode I go over some ways you can make transition time more engaging and in return, keeping behaviors at a minimum.
Timestamps:
0:46 Importance of Structured Transitions
1:13 Giving Clear Directions
5:44 Managing Cleanup Transitions
8:01 Using Visual Schedules
9:56 Lining Up Strategies
11:52 Transitioning in Smaller Groups
14:16 Providing Structure During Transitions
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
12 May 2024
7. Planning your academics - where to begin
Being new in Kindergarten can be daunting. Where do you start? In this episode I want to walk you through how to plan your academics and where you begin. Whether you have a scope and sequence to follow or not, I will give you some ideas to get you started!
Timestamps:
0:00 Planning for Kindergarten Academics
3:26 Understanding Curriculum Scope and Sequence
6:56 Progression of Literacy Skills
7:25 Building Math Skills in Kindergarten
8:44 General Progression of Math Concepts
10:28 Seeking Guidance in Curriculum Planning
11:43 Next Episode: Social Emotional Lessons
Resources Mentioned:
First Month of Kindergarten Success Kit (https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Month-of-Kindergarten-Success-Kit-9834168)
Planning Lessons for Kindergarten Science (https://kindergartencafe.org/planning-science/)
Workshop: Literacy, Math, and Centers… Oh My! (https://kindergartencafe.org/product/summer-bootcamp-week-4-literacy-math-and-centers-oh-my/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
12 May 2024
9. Introducing Centers
Having centers in Kindergarten classrooms provides great hands-on learning opportunities. In this episode I walk you through how I structure my centers, and how to introduce them at the start of the school year.
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Centers in Kindergarten
1:17 Slowly Introducing Center Routine
3:14 Gradual Addition of Centers
4:54 Practice Rotating Through Centers
5:40 Importance of Center Expectations
6:52 Introduction to Math Centers
8:24 Adapting Center Expectations
9:46 Introduction to Timed Rotating Centers
Resources Mentioned:
How to Best Manage Centers as a Classroom Teacher: Part 2 of a Conversation with a First-Year Teacher – Ep. 16 (https://kindergartencafe.org/how-to-best-manage-centers-as-a-classroom-teacher-part-2-of-a-conversation-with-a-first-year-teacher-ep-16/)
Easy Center Ideas for Kindergarten Growth (https://kindergartencafe.org/easy-center-ideas-for-kindergarten-growth/)
Workshop: Literacy, Math, and Centers… Oh My! (https://kindergartencafe.org/product/summer-bootcamp-week-4-literacy-math-and-centers-oh-my/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
10 May 2024
4. What’s unique about back to school for kindergarten?
In this episode, we explore how teaching kindergarten is much different than other grade levels, and the importance of catering to the developmental stage of kindergarteners. Taking things slow, focusing on routines and basic expectations, and finding joy in the small moments are key to creating a positive and effective learning environment.
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Kindergarten Challenges
3:23 Importance of Self-Care for Kindergarten Teachers
6:44 Teaching Every Little Step in Kindergarten
10:33 Finding Joy in Kindergarten Moments
Resources:
What Makes Kindergarten Magical (Ep. 1) (https://kindergartencafe.org/what-makes-kindergarten-magical-ep-1/)
First Month of Kindergarten Success Kit (https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/First-Month-of-Kindergarten-Success-Kit-9834168)
Workshop: Getting Through the First Month of Kindergarten (https://kindergartencafe.org/product/summer-bootcamp-week-3-getting-through-the-first-month-of-kindergarten/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
9 May 2024
2. What NOT to buy for your classroom
This episode is to help you NOT overspend money and purchase unnecessary items that you may not need your first year! I learned the hard way, so I share some things that you do not need to buy.
Timestamps:
0:00 Welcome to Classroom Setup Tips
1:26 Sorting Through Inherited Classroom Supplies
2:06 Avoiding Unnecessary Decorations
3:34 Opting for Simple Classroom Decor
6:21 Say No to Impulse Buys
8:14 Opting for Gently Used Toys and Supplies
Resources:
6 Tips for Setting up a New Classroom (https://kindergartencafe.org/6-tips-for-setting-up-a-new-classroom/)
The Kindergarten Must-Haves: Classroom Supplies and Materials (https://kindergartencafe.org/the-kindergarten-must-haves-classroom-supplies-and-materials/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
9 May 2024
3. Classroom Visit Day - what to have ready
In this episode, we discuss the planning involved in organizing a classroom visit day for incoming kindergartners. Our focus is on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for both the children and their parents. The primary objective of the visit day is to familiarize the kids with the classroom surroundings, ensuring their comfort and readiness for the upcoming school year.
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to Classroom Visit Day
3:05 Importance of Name Tags and Ownership
4:21 Encouraging Introductions and Community Building
5:07 Classroom Scavenger Hunt and Activities
7:13 Making Connections and Comforting Kids
8:25 Addressing Parents' Questions and Concerns
Resources:
A New Kind of School Open House (https://kindergartencafe.org/a-new-kind-of-school-open-house/)
Back to School Activities Kindergarten (https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Activities-Kindergarten-3772279)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
9 May 2024
1. Setting up a new classroom - where to start, designing play areas, things to consider
In this episode, I discuss the practical tips on how to set up your classroom for the first days and manage the overwhelm. The focus is on creating a functional and inviting space rather than perfection.
Timestamps:
0:00 Setting Up a New Classroom
1:15 Adapting Your Classroom Over Time
5:20 Designing Classroom Areas for Flow
7:38 Designing with Children in Mind
8:42 Organizing Supplies by Content Area
10:09 Decorating with Flexibility in Mind
11:26 Personalizing with Student Names
12:14 Tackling Classroom Setup Methodically
Resources:
Setting Up Classroom Play Areas (https://kindergartencafe.org/setting-up-play-areas/)
Choosing the Best Theme for my Classroom Elementary School (https://kindergartencafe.org/choosing-the-best-theme-for-my-classroom-elementary-school/)
Classroom Decorations (https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kindergarten-Cafe/Category/Classroom-Decoration-332821)
A Proven classroom set up for kindergarten independence (https://kindergartencafe.org/a-proven-classroom-set-up-for-kindergarten-independence/)
7 Tips for Organizing The Classroom: Supplies (https://kindergartencafe.org/7-tips-for-organizing-the-classroom-supplies/)
Workshop: Classroom Set-Up for a Well-Run Kindergarten Classroom (https://kindergartencafe.org/product/summer-bootcamp-week-1-classroom-set-up-for-a-well-run-kindergarten-classroom/)
Connect with Zeba:
Instagram - @kindergartencafe (https://www.instagram.com/kindergartencafe/)
Facebook - @kindergartencafe (http://www.facebook.com/kindergartencafe)
Website - www.kindergartencafe.org (http://www.kindergartencafe.org)
Tik Tok - @kindergartencafe (https://www.tiktok.com/@kindergartencafe)
8 May 2024
PD By the Pool Introduction
Welcome to PD By the Pool: An Audio Course for New Kindergarten Teachers
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