Creative Kindergarten

In episode 2 of Creative Kindergarten’s Book Club, we read and reflect on chapter 2 of Literacy Foundations for English Learners.  There are many components to learning to speak, read and write in English. This chapter specifically focuses on language development, and how we can effectively use your classroom time to help develop these skills with your English learner students.

In episode 150 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I look back on this school year and reflect on how my programming has grown and changed. A core part of my practice is ensuring that I am constantly evolving and tailoring my classroom to fit the needs of my students. How did I do that this past year? Listen to find out!

Welcome to Creative Kindergarten’s first episode of Book Club! I am so excited to embark on this amazing professional development with you and read an amazing book that will further my understanding of teaching English learners. In this first episode, I discuss the first chapter of the book: “Teaching Literacy Skills to English Learners”, and share my experiences as a language learner growing up in Québec.

In episode 149 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over some of the fun things that I like to do at the end of the school year to keep students engaged and learning! This can be a hard time of the year to plan for, so make it easier with these tips and ideas!

In episode 148 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give my tips and strategies for making it to the end of the school year with your mental health intact. This can be a challenging time for educators and students, so how can we set ourselves up for success and prevent burnout? 

In episode 147 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over what I have done in the past for my Alphabet Countdown to the end of the school year. Make each day exciting and easy to plan by reviewing and having fun with each letter of the alphabet!

In episode 146 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go through the information that I leave for a supply educator in my handbook. What I think is important, tips I’ve picked up from supplying and advice for how you can make a supply’s day a bit easier!

In episode 145 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about the need to know basic first-aid, and how to calm a student down when they are hurt. I often call myself a ‘part-time nurse’ with all the ailments and injuries that I ‘treat’ throughout the day.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 144 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on all the important fine motor work I have done with my students to ensure that they are developing the necessary skills. Fine motor skills are important for self-help skills, writing, and so much more - but how can we focus on strengthening them in the classroom?

In episode 143 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I celebrate the arrival of spring! I love this time of the year with my students when we are able to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather (without snow pants!) I go over my spring ‘to-do list’ of activities that I love doing with my classroom every year.

In episode 142 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share my thoughts around teaching during Earth Hour, Month and Day. How can we ensure that our students are engaged in authentic learning and that we understand the why behind the activities that we are engaging in?

In episode 141 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on my own practice when teaching problem-solving skills to my students. How can we explicitly teach the strategies needed for our students to think critically about problems they encounter, and be able to solve them independently?

> Problem-Solving Task Cards: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Problem-Solving-Task-Cards-and-Prompts-Printable-and-Slide-Deck-included-9210157

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 140 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss Pink Shirt Day and the implications it has for our practice all year. How can we teach our students to be upstanders and stand up to social justice issues?

In episode 139 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk with Annabelle about how we can work to build effective and healthy partnerships with our teaching team members.

In episode 138 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk with Sophia about introducing art materials and techniques with Sophia from Creative Kids Co. We dive into some tips and tricks on how to get started, where to get materials and where to find inspiration!

In episode 137 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss self-regulation skills with Avery and Alannah. We talk through strategies that we use and the learning that we’ve done around teaching our young learners how to regulate their big emotions.

first step to creating a successful outdoor program. Lauren gives us the tools and the confidence to bring the learning outside!

In episode 135 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I have an amazing discussion with Marissa from Mme Marissa about Story Workshops. We talk through how she uses them (along with her whole school), how impactful they are, and how you can get started doing your own story workshops.

In episode 134 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss decodable texts! I go over how I use them in the classroom and where I have found decodable texts that I use. They have been an amazing tool to use with my students and are an integral part of building confident readers.

In episode 133 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over my literacy instruction and how I embed Scarborouh’s Reading Rope into my day. Listen along as I discuss each strand and what I do in my classroom to explicitly teach for each skill.

In episode 132 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share the activities that we did to celebrate learning the alphabet! We learned the basic consonant and vowel sounds, so we decided to have a party to mark the occasion. Listen to find out what we did!

In episode 131 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share my thoughts and reflections on how Christmas is celebrated in kindergarten classrooms. How are educators explicitly and implicitly centring the holiday in their classroom environment? I also delve into the use of Elf on the Shelf and teaching Christmas Around the World.

In episode 130 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I look at what my next steps are in my literacy instruction for my students. I discuss what I am doing with my class to get them reading or ready to read. This is a big step for children as they develop their literacy skills and start their journey to becoming readers.

In episode 129 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about how I have incorporated a 3-day interactive read-aloud into my classroom routines. After being inspired to try it by many different educators, I have been blown away by the results with my students. Listen as I explain what it is, how I plan for it and how it works in my classroom.

> Reading Rockets Repeated Interactive Read Alouds in Preschool and Kindergarten: https://www.readingrockets.org/article/repeated-interactive-read-alouds-preschool-and-kindergarten

> The Ramped Up Read Aloud by Maria P. Walther: https://amzn.to/3O19Lvz

> Rebellious Read Alouds by Vera Ahiyya: https://amzn.to/3UzuZmH

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 128 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I get inspired to go outside and find balance in my teaching life with Kat from Je Me Demande. We discuss how you can stop feeling overwhelmed by teaching and how outdoor education can transform your classroom!

In episode 127 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reaffirm my love of loose parts with Sarah from Loose Parts of Kinder. We discuss how to store, use, share and collect items for your classroom loose parts collection! Such a fun and inspiring conversation that will get you excited to play with loose parts.

In episode 126 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk communities and dramatic play with Sydney and Nicole from Kind Kindies. We had such a fun time talking about the parallels between kindergarten in Ontario and British Columbia!

In episode 125 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I have a fantastic conversation with Mme Amy from 123 Petits Pas. We discuss involving families in their child’s learning and using music for teaching in the classroom. Listen as she gives amazing advice and shares her knowledge!

In episode 124 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I work through my reflections on the follow-up activities that kindergarten educators love to do! Read a book? Follow-up activity. Learn about a new topic?  Follow-up activity. But do we really need them? Listen as I work through my own thoughts on this topic.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 123 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I look back on the first week of school. What were some of the positives? What did we do? What are we looking forward to? Let me tell you all about it in this week’s episode!

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 122 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about setting up provocations for learning in my kindergarten class. How do I know what to set up? What materials do I use? What do I do once it’s set up? Have a listen to find out!

> Shop the Teachers Pay Teachers Back-to-School bonus sale with code BTSBONUS22

In episode 121 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share my advice for new (or returning) kindergarten educators. I also read advice that other educators gave. Listen to this episode as we start the school year to be ready to welcome your students to the classroom!

> FREE Monthly Idea Lists:

In episode 120 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give my thoughts on setting up your classroom. As we start looking at the beginning of the school year, you can start reflecting on what your own pedagogy is and how it can be reflected in the classroom space you create.

> FREE Monthly Idea Lists:

In episode 119 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I outline a schedule of my school day to give you ideas on how you  can structure it. I talk about what I’m doing, what my students are doing, how I do small groups and so much more!

> FREE Monthly Idea Lists:

In episode 118 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss what I do to get ready for back-to-school season. I give my tips and advice for the first week of school, and talk about what I like to do with my students.

> FREE Monthly Idea Lists:

In episode 117 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I look back on last school year and think about what I want to start, stop or continue! What will you bring into the next school year?

> Sound Wall:

In episode 116 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I think about the professional development goals I want to set for myself this year. I let you know some of the books on my TBR list and look forward to what I want to accomplish!

> Natural Curiosity 2:

In episode 115 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss the 3 Science of Reading courses that I have completed. I hope to give you a better understanding of the three so you can make an informed decision about what you want to do for your professional development.

> Ontario Kindergarten Program 10-Part Video Series sign-up:

In episode 114 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go through the updates that I am making to my professional portfolio this year. Every summer, I make sure my portfolio is up-to-date so that I can be ready for any opportunity that presents itself. Take a peek inside my binder and find out what I include!

> Ontario Kindergarten Program 10-Part Video Series sign-up:

In episode 113 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share 3 literacy activities I’ve done with my students during whole group lessons. They were a lot of fun to do as a class and we were able to have some great conversations about our phonics knowledge!

> Read Like a Rockstar post:

In episode 112 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I look back on a year of outdoor education. We spent this school year building our students’ sense of place and hoping to address the nature deficit with our students. Do I feel like we were successful? I’ll let you know in this episode!

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 111 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I delve into the latest updates from Lucy Calkins and my perspective as someone who has only very recently heard about her. From the perspective of play-based education and the natural exploration of concepts to a structured literacy approach; I give my views on this controversial topic.

> Lucy Calkins New York Times Article

In episode 110 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about the different coding activities that I do with my students. I give no tech ideas, app recommendations and my thoughts on different robots.

> Episode 62: Coding

In episode 109 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give you my advice and perspective for educators that are working in a shared space. If you are sharing a classroom space with childcare educators or other programs, I talk through how I have navigated both sides of the partnership.

> Sign up for Camp Kinder!

In episode 108 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I tell you how I easily plan for the end of the school year with a fun alphabet countdown. It makes prepping and planning in the last few weeks so easy and engaging for your students!

> Shop the TpT Teachers Appreciation sale with code THANKYOU22

In episode 107 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give my honest thoughts and opinions on how Earth Day can be observed and taught in kindergarten. Looking through a lens of intent VS impact, I explore the why behind some Earth Day activities.

> Podcast 66: Earth Day

In episode 106 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I delve into the world of documentation. I go into the why, what and how of documenting in the classroom, and give you my best advice and tips.

> Podcast 42: Documentation in Kindergarten

In episode 105 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over my current literacy instruction routine. I have been changing things up as the year has gone on so I thought I would share what I am currently doing!

> The Six Shifts Course:

In episode 104 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I highlight some shifts I am making in my instruction to include quality vocabulary words.

> Shifting the Balance (affiliate link):

In episode 103 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss how noticing and naming learning during play-based learning centers can impact your teaching. As educators, we should be taking the time to look for the learning that is happening throughout the classroom.

> Saint-Patrick’s Day Activities blog post:

In episode 102 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on my practices in the kindergarten classroom around the expectations I set for students. Are we putting too many restrictions on students’ behaviour? Why do we set these expectations? Are they developmentally appropriate? Join in reflection with me!

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 101 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I walk you through how I am teaching vowel sounds to my students. We have finished learning the alphabet and now I am focusing on the skills I know my students need.

In episode 100 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I answer the questions that I get asked the most about running kindergarten centers. I go through how they run, when we do them, for how long and so much more.

I also give you the details about my giveaway to celebrate the 100th episode!

Enter the giveaway:

In episode 99 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I interview Jenn from Books & Bytes about how she gets kindergarten students excited to log into computers. She shares her tips, tricks and centres that she does with them.

Shop the Teachers Pay Teachers sale February 8th and 9th! Save up to 25% off with the code: FEBSALE22

Find Jenn from Books & Bytes:

In episode 98 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about all the different events and observances that are happening in the month of February. We have Lunar New Year, Groundhog’s Day, Valentine’s Day, 100th Day of School, and more!

It is also Black History Month, so I share my learning and thoughts around how kindergarten educators can engage students in learning about Black History.

Resources for Black History Month:

In episode 97 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share my ideas and learning around outdoor education! I give my thoughts about what it can look like, different versions of outdoor learning, the nature deficit and creating a sense of place.

Outdoor Learning podcast episode:

In episode 96 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss some of the professional goals I am setting for myself for this upcoming school year.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 95 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I share resources on how to teach math in kindergarten.

Episode 60: Math in Kindergarten:

In episode 94 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on classroom management and some of the teaching tools that I am using this year.

Shop the Cyber Monday Sale:

In episode 93 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I tell you about the dramatic play area in my classroom. I recently added 2 items to it that have drastically deepened the play that takes place there. Listen to this episode to hear about what they are, and how I plan to continually improve this space for my students.

Books podcast episode:

In episode 92 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss the importance of mental health for educators. I dive into how I take care of my own well-being so that I can continue to support my students in the classroom.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 91 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give my advice for conducting stress-free interviews. What I do to prepare, what I say (or don’t say), and my tips for their success.

Previous Parent-Teacher Interview podcast episode:

In episode 90 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on my Structured Literacy Instruction. I talk about things that I am learning, what I hope to improve and how it is going.

Kindergarten Phonics Routine:

In episode 89 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about how we had to hit the reset button with our class. Setting up a foundation of expectations and routines is so important - but what happens when that falls apart? I talk about what we did!

Kindergarten Phonics Routine:

In episode 88 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over what our school day schedule is like and what it looks like in comparison to the flow of the day. It is important to set your students up for success by reflecting on, and changing things up when needed.

Kindergarten Phonics Routine:

In episode 87 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on two different topics that have come up in our classroom this past week. I discuss how we are working on phonics and oral language skills with our students. I’m also thinking about what we will be doing for Thanksgiving in our classroom.

I Am Thankful activities:

In episode 86 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about what I am planning for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in my kindergarten classroom. I also go over the notion of separating play and learning in our classrooms and how we can rethink traditional classroom philosophies.

Indigenous Writes by Chelsea Vowel (affiliate link):

In episode 85 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about my first week back to school and what I did with my students. I had a great time reflecting and looking back on the first 2 days 2 with students and what I am focused on moving forward.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 84 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I answer questions about kindergarten back to school time! I talk about flow of the day assessment, outdoor learning, routines, writing and more.

Self-Regulated Centers blog post:

In episode 83 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss the classroom centers that I have, the considerations I make and the reflections I do on the classroom space.

This is part 5 in my 5 part series about Kindergarten Classroom Setup.

Blog Post About the Classroom Library

In episode 82 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss how I pick new books for my students, and what I look for when I am adding to our bookshelf. Which books should you have in your classroom library?

This is part 4 in my 5 part series about Kindergarten Classroom Setup.

Blog Post About the Classroom Library

In episode 81 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I'm going to discuss everything related to the classroom environment and reflect on my practice as an early childhood educator.

How do you store all of your materials? I love finding baskets and bowls to show off the loose parts and items that my students can use. They are great for setting up provocations and centers, and for storage.

This is part 3 in my 5 part series about Kindergarten Classroom Setup.

Blog Post About Material Storage:

In episode 80 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I'm going to discuss everything related to the classroom environment and reflect on my practice as an early childhood educator. Your kindergarten classroom decor can be an opportunity to provide meaningful tools to your students and create a space where students feel a sense of belonging. What are you putting up on your classroom walls?

This is part 2 in my 5 part series about Kindergarten Classroom Setup.

Blog Post About Classroom Decor:

In episode 79 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I'm going to discuss everything related to the classroom environment and reflect on my practice as an early childhood educator. This first episode looks at using a theme when decorating your room.

This is part 1 of my 5 part series about Kindergarten Classroom Setup.

Blog Post About Themes:

In episode 78 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss a variety of topics that I am reflecting on for Back to School. What are my thoughts on spending money in the classroom, clip charts for behaviour management, my focus for the beginning of the school year and more! Join me as I reflect on what I want to place importance on this school year.

Back to School Book recommendations:

In episode 77 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I think about what Structured Literacy Instruction will look like in a play-based kindergarten classroom. How do you fit everything in? What resources should you use? I will try to cover everything!

Graphic on the breakdown of skills by The Reading Universe (click on the button that says: “click here to download the grid):

In episode 76 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about my journey to the kindergarten classroom and the partnerships I’ve had along the way. How do you start building your teaching partnership from the beginning? How do you ensure you have a strong partnership that serves the needs of your students?

Previous podcast about being an Early Childhood Educator:

In episode 75 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give a list of all the new books that I have acquired for my classroom library. These read-alouds are perfect for back to school!

Amazon Storefront (with book list):

In episode 74 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss my professional portfolio and reflect on the changes I need to make to it while I update it for this year. Hear about why I think having a portfolio is important and how I made mine.

Professional Portfolio Blog Post:

In episode 73 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about my plans for summer break and what I will be working on. I also talk about celebrating Canada Day in Kindergarten.

Professional Development Goals episode:

In episode 72 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I think back to the past year of distance and in-person learning and talk about my key takeaways. What will I be continuing in my practice? What has this experience taught me about myself and my practice?

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 71 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on the learning and unlearning that educators need to take on around Canadian history.

University of Alberta, Indigenous Canada course:

In episode 70 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over the professional development goals that I have set out for myself over the summer. Every year,I decide what I want to learn more about over the break and I find different PD to help me meet my goals/

Professional Development podcast episode:

In episode 69 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about how I try new tools in my kindergarten classroom. We go over how to introduce the tool and what to do if things don’t go according to plan.

Books Podcast Episode (Windows, Mirrors and Sliding Glass Doors):

In episode 68 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I ask the question - should kindergarten educators celebrate Mother’s Day with their class? Engaging in reflective practice is an important component of being an educator, and asking ourselves this question is a step in ensuring we have an inclusive classroom environment.

Mother’s Day Blog Posts:

In episode 67 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over what an Alphabet Countdown is and how I have done them in my classroom! Whether you are in-person or virtual, you can have a fun countdown to the end of the year with your students.

Alphabet Countdown Blog Posts:

In episode 66 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk all about Earth Day in Kindergarten and thinking about the why when planning learning about sustainability and conservation. As educators, we can be role models for our students so it is important to reflect on our practices.

Earth Day Blog Posts:

In episode 65 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I think back on the times that I have raised different animals in the classroom. From butterflies to ducks and chicks, I talk about my experience with them and try to give some advice!

Duck Life Cycle Blog Posts:

In episode 64 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on the different ways to spark wonder and curiosity in your kindergarten classroom. From setting up provocations to just listening to their conversations, educators can take an active role when following the lead of student learning in the classroom.

Seed Inquiry Blog Post:

In episode 63 of the Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I think back on the professional learning that I have done this past year, and look to the future at what my goals are for myself. Professional development is so important for educators, but how do you get excited about it and how do you pick what to learn about?

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 62 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I focus on how to teach coding in kindergarten. I go through what I teach first, what I use and some tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way.

Links I mention in this episode:

Offline Coding Blog Post:

In episode 61 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I look back on all the projects I have created for the classroom. Using different materials like wood, felt, rocks and more can be such a great way to add a variety of fun resources to your classroom.

Links I mention in this episode:

Wood Gems Blog Post:

In episode 60 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss math learning in kindergarten. I go into long range plans, learning opportunities and classroom tools. There are so many things to think about when it comes to teaching math and I reflect on a few of them.

Links I mention in this episode:

Everything You Need to Know About Math Centers blog post:

In episode 59 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I delve into CVC words: what they are, how to teach them, why they are important.

Links I mention in this episode:

CVC Word Typing:

In episode 58 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss having a classroom building center and some of the essentials to have in it.

Links I mention in this episode:

First Building Center Podcast Episode:

In episode 57 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give you some ideas to do for online learning. Even if you are teaching in person, some of these activities would be perfect for reengaging your students in their learning.

Links I mention in this episode:

Teach Like Us Podcast:

In episode 56 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about the pressure that educators have to create a virtual classroom, and how we can extend grace to ourselves, families and our students.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 55 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss small groups in the kindergarten classroom. I revisit this topic and discuss what I have done in my classroom, and how I use guided groups to teach a variety of skills to my students.

Links I mention in this episode:

First podcast episode about guided groups:

In episode 54 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on the books that educators include (or do not include) in their classrooms. Looking at Dr Bishop’s essay Mirrors, Windows, Sliding Glass Doors and the intent versus the impact that we have with the books that we choose.

Links I mention in this episode:

Dr Bishop’s Mirrors, Windows, Sliding Glass Doors

In episode 53 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss how to use different technology tools in the classroom, some different tips and tricks I have learned from working online and how to introduce new tech tools to students.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 52 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I ramble on about how I teach the alphabet to kindergarten students. I talk about the different aspects of having a comprehensive phonics program and how important it is to the future success of students.

Links I mention in this episode:

ABC and Beyond (affiliate link):

In episode 51 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk all about my love for read alouds. I give you my best tips for making them engaging for your students, and give you some question ideas. Books can be a powerful tool for children’s oral language development, reading behaviour skills and so much more!

Links I mention in this episode:

Oral Language Questions Blog Post:

In episode 50 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I do a deep dive into Number Talks. I tell you everything from home I do them, my tips and tricks, and ideas for what has worked for me.

Links I mention in this episode:

Number Talks Blog Post:

In episode 49 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss how to build strong relationships with families. Since this might be their first contact with the school system, we have a unique ability to positively impact and build relationships with our students and families. I give my best tips and advice!

Links I mention in this episode:

Homework Challenges:

In episode 48 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give you some ideas of what to do during transition times. You might have short or long periods of the time throughout the day when you are transitioning from one thing to the next, and you need some activities in your back pocket to keep students engaged. I tell you some of my favourites!

Links I mention in this episode:

Practical and Simple Transition Ideas blog post:

In episode 46 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about celebrating Halloween in kindergarten. I reflect on how I used it to build a classroom community, what has worked (and not worked) for me in the past, and some ideas that you can try.

Links I mention in this episode:

Kindergarten Halloween Ideas blog post:

In episode 46 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over some of my tips and advice for planning and presenting Professional Development sessions. From what I did at the beginning, to what I’m doing now I go over the steps I take to present at PDs

Links I mention in this episode:

My Journey episode:

In episode 45 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about how I started working in education, and the steps I took to get my current position at the school board level. I also give my best interview tips!

Links I mention in this episode:

Professional Portfolio episode:

In episode 44 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I explore the concept of loose parts. What they are, why they are so important and give you some ideas. I love using loose parts in kindergarten, and I try to pass that passion on to you.

Links I mention in this episode:

Loose Parts ideas for the Kindergarten Classroom blog post:

In episode 43 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on outdoor learning and how to successfully use your outdoor space.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 42 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I take a look at the documentation in kindergarten. I go over how what and why I document in the classroom. This brief overview allows me to think about the process of documenting student learning.

The link I mention in this episode:

OneNote Documentation from Books and Bytes:

In episode 41 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I answer some of the questions that I was asked over on my Instagram! I talk about some personal things and my thoughts on different topics in kindergarten.

Links I mention in this episode:

Coding in Kindergarten

In episode 40 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss what homework looks like for me. I talk about how I came to develop my Homework challenges and a home reading program.

Links I mention in this episode:

Monthly Homework Challenges:

In episode 39 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk with my friend Jenn from Books and Bytes about how she gets kindergarten students to log on to computers. It is a struggle every year to get students to be able to log on to computers on their own, but she has some really great tips and tricks to make your life easier!

Links I mention in this episode:

Jenn’s blog post filled with tips and ideas:

In episode 38 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I discuss how to set up classroom routines at the beginning of the school year. We are going to be introducing a lot of new routines to our students, so I give you my best advice on how to make it as easy as possible!

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 37 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I start reflecting on the first day of kindergarten. I give some advice and think about what I might do to make the first day of school successful for me and my students.

Links I mention in this episode:

In episode 36 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on setting up a kindergarten classroom for Back to School. Rethinking our learning spaces, and what we put in them. I ask questions and ask you to think about your classroom environment.

Links I mention in this episode:

Kindergarten Classroom Tour:

In episode 35 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give you some of my favourite tech tips that I have been using. Like how I am using Google Drive better, some great Chrome extensions, and more!

Links I mention in this episode:

My affiliate link for Canva:

In episode 34 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I reflect on the policies surrounding attendance in schools. Perfect Attendance policies are put in place in some school or classrooms to encourage students to attend class every day. I take a look at these kinds of policies and discuss my views on why I do not think they have a place in kindergarten.

To join in on the conversation with me, you can find me on:

In episode 33 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I open my professional portfolio and go through what I include. I also discuss what it is, why I use, how I use it. The summer months are the perfect time to make or update your own portfolio, and this episode is the perfect place to start.

Links I mention in this episode:

In episode 32 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I go over PL that is happening over the summer. There are more professional learning opportunities than ever and I’ll tell you what I will be doing over the next few months. I also give you some suggestions for books and PD sessions that you can take advantage of.

Links I mention in this episode:

In episode 31 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk in-depth about Boom Cards. These digital task cards are perfect for reinforcing skills and concepts with your students. I have used them for years in my classroom, and they are great for using during Distance Learning.

Links I mention in this episode:

Boom Cards Blog Post:

In episode 30 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, find out how I embed literacy in my kindergarten classroom. Find out what I do, and what it looks like in my classroom.

Links I mention in this episode:

Math Centers Podcast:

https://anchor.fm/creativekindergarten/episodes/28--Math-Centers-eb73h2

Amazon storefront:

In episode 29 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I describe my block center and small world play center. I describe the materials available, what their use is, and their benefits. These are two very popular centers in my classroom, and I wanted to share what they are with you.

Links I mention in this episode:

Building Center Blog Post:

In episode 28 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I talk about math centers. I go though how I plan for math, how to incorporate math throughout your day and why learning goals are important. Join me, and learn how I used math centers in my classroom.

Links I mention in this episode:

Amazon Storefront:

In episode 27 of The Creative Kindergarten Podcast, I give my thoughts on a few different topics, including one that may be controversial. I give my thoughts and opinions on a subject that I have seen brought up by other kindergarten educators, and I wanted to share my perspective on it. Let me know if you agree or disagree!

Links I mention in this episode:

Amazon Storefront: