Isn’t it exciting watching our students as they’re learning to read and actually comprehend what they’re reading? Once a child can read independently and absorb what they are reading, it becomes fun for them and opens the door to endless learning opportunities. When we teach vocabulary through writing, we build
No matter what curriculum you’re working with, phonics instruction in the primary grades is a big undertaking—and starting the year strong makes all the difference. One of the most effective ways I launch phonics each year is with a Letter Sounds Bootcamp. I usually dedicate most of September to reviewing
We’re nearing the end of the school year already! And it can be hard manage the end of the year chaos while keeping students engaged. Everyone is looking forward to summer break, and their excitable behavior proves it. If any of this sounds like your current classroom climate, stick around
Quick digital activities can make or break your classroom flow—especially during tricky transition times. Whether you’re lining up for lunch, waiting on a specials teacher, or filling a five-minute gap before dismissal, having simple go-to digital resources can keep your students focused, calm, and learning. To save you the scroll,
Small group reading time is powerful, but keeping students engaged can be tricky! Hands-on activities for small group reading make learning fun while building fluency, comprehension, and phonics skills. From word-building games to interactive story retelling, these easy ideas will keep your readers excited and learning. Let’s dive in! Before
In the primary grades, we often focus so much on teaching key reading skills that we sometimes overlook the importance of nurturing a genuine love of reading. While decodable phonics texts are great for teaching sight words and sound-based patterns, they may not always offer the thematic engagement that helps
Several of my students needed extra support with fluency this year, so I began using quick warm-ups during small group sessions. These short fluency phrases have helped build word recognition and confidence while keeping our routine simple and effective. Let me share some of my top tips to incorporate fluency
Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time for some colorful, creative fun! These five easy art projects are just right for 1st graders—simple to make, mostly mess-friendly, and full of spring cheer. Let’s get crafting! Read through each section or jump right to the craft you want to try
Earth Day on April 22nd is a great chance to teach your students about caring for our planet. Here are six fun, hands-on activities to celebrate Earth Day in 1st grade. Bear Hug Craftivity Earth Day Writing Plant & Flower Activities Trash Sorting Promise to the Earth Craftivity Earth Day
Easter is the perfect time to add some hands-on, engaging fun to your classroom! Whether you’re looking for low-prep crafts, literacy activities, or movement-based games, these Easter activities will keep your K-1 students excited and learning. Egg Hunt Craftivity Spring Chick Emergent Reader Spring Emergent Reader Science of Reading Egg
