**Five Ways to Enjoy Summer on a Budget**

Teachers WE MADE IT! If you don't have the summer off, I am sorry. You can still keep reading because let's face it, we all need to budget in today's world. 

Summer is a time for relaxation, exploration, and fun, but it doesn't have to be expensive. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can enjoy a memorable summer without breaking the bank. Here are five budget-friendly ways to make the most of your summer.

**1. Embrace the Great Outdoors**

Nature offers endless opportunities for enjoyment, and many of them are free or low-cost. Here are a few ideas:

- **Hiking and Biking:** Explore local trails and parks. Hiking and biking are great ways to stay active while enjoying the beauty of nature.

- **Picnics:** Pack a homemade picnic and head to a local park or beach. It's a delightful way to enjoy a meal outdoors without spending money at a restaurant.

- **Camping:** Whether in your backyard or at a nearby campsite, camping is an affordable way to spend quality time outdoors.

**2. Discover Free Community Events**

Many communities offer free or low-cost events during the summer months. Keep an eye on local event calendars for:

- **Concerts in the Park:** Many cities host free outdoor concerts, showcasing local musicians and bands.

- **Farmers' Markets:** Stroll through farmers' markets to sample fresh produce, enjoy live music, and experience the local culture.

- **Festivals and Fairs:** Look for local festivals and fairs that often have free admission and offer entertainment, food, and activities.

**3. Get Creative at Home**

Staying home doesn't have to be boring. Use your creativity to make home-based activities exciting:

- **DIY Projects:** Take on a do-it-yourself project, whether it's gardening, crafting, or home improvement. It's a productive and satisfying way to spend your time.

- **Movie Nights:** Set up a cozy movie night with friends or family. You can even have themed nights with costumes and decorations.

- **Cooking and Baking:** Experiment with new recipes and have fun cooking or baking together. You can even have a friendly cooking competition.

**4. Explore Local Attractions**

You don't have to travel far to have an adventure. Discover the hidden gems in your own area:

- **Museums and Galleries:** Many museums and art galleries offer free or discounted admission days. It's a great way to enjoy culture and history without spending much.

- **Historical Sites:** Visit nearby historical sites or landmarks. Often, these places have free entry or suggest a small donation.

- **Nature Reserves and Gardens:** Explore local botanical gardens or nature reserves. They provide beautiful scenery and a peaceful environment for a day out.

**5. Plan Affordable Day Trips**

Short day trips can be a refreshing change of scenery without the cost of an overnight stay:

- **Beach Day:** Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks, bring some beach games, and enjoy a day by the sea.

- **Lakes and Rivers:** If you're not near the ocean, visit a local lake or river for swimming, fishing, or paddle boarding.

- **Scenic Drives:** Plan a scenic drive to a nearby town or natural attraction. Bring a camera and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Summer doesn't have to be expensive to be enjoyable. By taking advantage of free and low-cost activities, embracing creativity, and exploring your local area, you can have a fun-filled and memorable summer without straining your budget. So, get out there and make the most of the sunny days ahead!

What is your favorite budget friendly way to enjoy the summer? 

**Celebrating Student Birthdays in the Classroom: Creative and Meaningful Ideas**

Student birthdays are special milestones that offer a wonderful opportunity to create a sense of community and make each student feel valued and appreciated. Recognizing and celebrating birthdays in the classroom can boost students' self-esteem, foster positive relationships, and add a bit of joy to the school day. Here are some creative and meaningful ways to celebrate student birthdays in your classroom.

#1. Birthday Bulletin Board

Create a colorful and vibrant birthday bulletin board in your classroom. Use it to display the names and birthdates of all your students. Decorate the board with birthday-themed decorations, such as balloons, cakes, and candles. This visual reminder helps students look forward to their special day and promotes a sense of belonging.

My classroom had an awesome camping theme a few years ago and I created this amazing campfire/s'more birthday board. The kids LOVED it. It was fun to see which months had the most birthdays and which months had zero birthdays. I kept updated it each year and it has always been a class favorite. I received so many complements on it. Check it out here!

#2. Birthday Crown or Badge

On their birthday, give the celebrant a special birthday crown or badge to wear. This simple gesture makes the student feel special and acknowledged throughout the day. You can have a collection of reusable crowns or badges that students can choose from, adding a fun element of choice to the celebration.

#3. Birthday Book

Start a class birthday book where each student contributes a page for the birthday child. The pages can include drawings, kind messages, and favorite memories. Compile the pages into a book and present it to the birthday student. This personalized gift is a meaningful keepsake that students will cherish.

#4. Special Privileges

Grant the birthday student special privileges for the day. These could include being the line leader, sitting in a special chair, or choosing a game or activity for the class. Special privileges make the birthday student feel honored and excited about their day.

#5. Classroom Birthday Song

Begin the day by singing a birthday song to the celebrant. You can sing the traditional “Happy Birthday” song or create your own unique classroom birthday chant. This sets a festive tone for the day and makes the student feel celebrated by their peers.

#6. Birthday Box

Create a birthday box filled with small treats and trinkets, such as stickers, pencils, and erasers. Allow the birthday student to choose an item from the box as a birthday treat. This adds an element of surprise and delight to the celebration.

#7. Birthday Card from the Teacher

Give the birthday student a personalized birthday card from you, the teacher. Write a heartfelt message acknowledging their uniqueness and expressing your appreciation for having them in your class. A personal note from the teacher can make a significant impact and create a lasting memory.

#8. Birthday Shout-Outs

Throughout the day, give birthday shout-outs to the celebrant. Incorporate these shout-outs during different activities, such as morning meetings, transitions, or closing circles. Frequent acknowledgments keep the celebration going and make the student feel special all day long.

#9. Classroom Game

If you have morning meeting, it is the perfect time for a fun game. The birthday student can pick the game, lead the game, or be the "special" person in the game. Something little like this can make students look forward to their special day and leave a lasting impact. 

#10. Birthday Bulletin Board Announcement

If your school has a morning announcement system, arrange for a birthday shout-out during the morning announcements. Hearing their name over the PA system adds a school-wide recognition that makes the birthday student feel extra special.

Celebrating student birthdays in the classroom is a wonderful way to build a positive and inclusive classroom culture. These celebrations do not have to be elaborate or costly; even small gestures can make a big difference in making students feel valued and appreciated. By recognizing and celebrating each student’s birthday, you foster a sense of belonging and create joyful memories that students will remember for years to come. 

Here’s to making each birthday in your classroom a special and memorable occasion!

**Enhance Your Classroom with ELA Morning Work: A Teacher’s Guide**

As teachers, we understand the importance of setting a positive and productive tone for the school day right from the start. One effective way to achieve this is through structured morning work activities. Today, I want to share how our ELA Morning Work/Bell Work BUNDLE PACK can be a game-changer in your classroom.

What is ELA Morning Work?

ELA (English Language Arts) Morning Work is a set of engaging and educational activities designed to be completed by students at the beginning of the school day. This particular bundle includes a full year's worth of themed morning work, covering 40 weeks. Each week’s activities are carefully crafted to reinforce key ELA skills such as grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing.

Benefits of Using ELA Morning Work in Your Classroom

**1. Establishes a Routine**

Starting the day with a consistent routine helps students transition smoothly into the school day. ELA Morning Work provides a structured activity that students can begin as soon as they enter the classroom. This not only helps manage the morning rush but also sets a calm and focused tone for the day.

**2. Reinforces Key Skills**

The activities in this bundle are designed to reinforce essential ELA skills. By practicing these skills daily, students can improve their grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing abilities. Regular reinforcement helps solidify these skills, making students more confident and proficient in their ELA tasks.

**3. Encourages Independent Learning**

ELA Morning Work encourages students to work independently, fostering a sense of responsibility and self-discipline. As students complete the activities on their own, they learn to manage their time and develop problem-solving skills. This independence is crucial for their overall academic growth.

**4. Engages Students with Themed Activities**

One of the standout features of this bundle is the monthly themed activities. The variety of themes keeps students engaged and excited about their morning work. The themes are not only fun but also relevant, helping students make connections between their learning and the world around them.

**5. Provides Valuable Assessment Data**

The morning work activities can also serve as a quick assessment tool for teachers. By reviewing students’ completed work, you can identify areas where they may need additional support or enrichment. This ongoing assessment helps tailor your instruction to meet the needs of each student.

**6. Saves Planning Time**

With 40 weeks of ready-to-use activities, this bundle significantly reduces your planning time. You can trust that the activities are well-designed and aligned with educational standards, allowing you to focus more on instruction and less on preparation.

How to Integrate ELA Morning Work into Your Classroom

**1. Start the Day with Consistency**

Introduce ELA Morning Work as a daily routine. Explain the purpose of the activities to your students and encourage them to begin their morning work as soon as they arrive. Consistency is key to making this routine effective.

**2. Create a Welcoming Environment**

Set up a designated area in your classroom where students can easily access their morning work materials. Make sure the environment is welcoming and organized to encourage students to dive into their tasks.

**3. Incorporate Discussion and Feedback**

After students complete their morning work, take a few minutes to discuss the activities. Encourage students to share their answers and thoughts. Provide feedback to reinforce learning and address any misconceptions.

**4. Monitor and Assess Progress**

Regularly review your students’ morning work to monitor their progress. Use this information to guide your instruction and provide targeted support where needed. Celebrate improvements and achievements to motivate your students.

The ELA Morning Work/Bell Work BUNDLE PACK is an invaluable resource for any ELA classroom. By integrating these activities into your morning routine, you can create a positive and productive start to each school day. Your students will benefit from the consistent practice, engagement, and reinforcement of essential skills. Make the next school year your best one yet with this comprehensive and effective ELA Morning Work bundle!

**Making the Next School Year Even Better: Tips for Teachers**

As the current school year comes to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on our experiences and plan for an even better year ahead. Whether you had a fantastic year or faced some challenges, there are always opportunities to grow and improve. Here are some strategies to make the next school year your best one yet.

#1. Reflect on the Past Year

Before diving into planning for the new year, take some time to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. Consider the following questions:

- What were the highlights of the year?

- What strategies and activities were most effective?

- What were the biggest challenges, and how can they be addressed?

- How did students respond to different teaching methods and classroom management techniques?

By identifying the successes and areas for growth, you can build on your strengths and develop plans to overcome any obstacles.

#2. Set Clear Goals

Setting clear, achievable goals is essential for personal and professional growth. Consider setting goals in the following areas:

- **Professional Development:** Identify areas where you want to grow as an educator. This could include attending workshops, enrolling in online courses, or reading educational books.

- **Classroom Management:** Reflect on your classroom management strategies and set goals to create a positive and structured learning environment.

- **Student Engagement:** Think about ways to increase student engagement and motivation. This might involve incorporating more hands-on activities, technology, or collaborative projects.

- **Work-Life Balance:** Ensure that you set goals to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This is crucial for sustaining your energy and passion throughout the year.

#3. Organize and Prepare

A well-organized classroom sets the tone for a successful year. Spend some time organizing your materials, creating a welcoming classroom environment, and planning your curriculum. Here are a few tips:

- **Declutter and Organize:** Clear out old materials, organize supplies, and create a system for keeping your classroom tidy.

- **Classroom Decor:** Create a welcoming and inspiring classroom atmosphere with bulletin boards, posters, and student work displays.

- **Curriculum Planning:** Outline your curriculum for the year, including key themes, units, and projects. Having a roadmap will help you stay on track and ensure comprehensive coverage of the material.

# 4. Build Strong Relationships

Building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues is key to a successful school year. Consider the following strategies:

- **Get to Know Your Students:** Spend time learning about your students' interests, strengths, and challenges. This will help you tailor your teaching to meet their needs.

- **Communicate with Parents:** Establish open lines of communication with parents. Regular updates and positive feedback can foster a supportive partnership.

- **Collaborate with Colleagues:** Work with your colleagues to share ideas, resources, and support. Collaboration can lead to new insights and improved teaching practices.

#5. Incorporate Technology

Technology can enhance learning and make your job easier. Look for ways to integrate technology into your teaching:

- **Educational Apps and Tools:** Explore apps and tools that can support learning and make lessons more interactive.

- **Online Resources:** Utilize online resources for lesson planning, student assessments, and professional development.

- **Virtual Collaboration:** Use technology to facilitate collaboration among students, such as through online discussion boards or group projects.

#6. Focus on Student Well-being

Supporting students' social and emotional well-being is just as important as their academic success. Here are a few ideas:

- **SEL Programs:** Implement social and emotional learning (SEL) programs to help students develop skills like empathy, self-regulation, and resilience.

- **Mindfulness Activities:** Incorporate mindfulness activities into your daily routine to help students manage stress and stay focused.

- **Create a Safe Space:** Ensure that your classroom is a safe and inclusive space where all students feel valued and respected.

#7. Stay Flexible and Adaptable

The past few years have taught us the importance of flexibility and adaptability. Be prepared to adjust your plans as needed and embrace new challenges with a positive attitude. Flexibility will help you navigate unexpected situations and find creative solutions.

As you look ahead to the next school year, take the time to reflect, plan, and set goals. By focusing on these key areas, you can create a positive and productive learning environment for your students and yourself. 

Here's to making the next school year your best one yet!

**The Power of Kindness in the Classroom: Promoting Positive Behavior and Inspiration**

As educators, we are not just responsible for imparting academic knowledge; we also play a crucial role in shaping the social and emotional development of our students. One of the most important values we can teach and promote in the classroom is kindness. Cultivating a culture of kindness not only creates a positive and inclusive learning environment but also helps students develop empathy, compassion, and respect for others.

**Why Teaching Kindness Matters**

1. **Enhances Classroom Environment:** A kind classroom is a safe and welcoming space where students feel valued and respected. This positive atmosphere can significantly enhance students' willingness to participate and engage in learning activities.

2. **Improves Social Skills:** Teaching kindness helps students develop essential social skills such as empathy, active listening, and cooperation. These skills are crucial for building healthy relationships both inside and outside the classroom.

3. **Reduces Bullying:** Promoting kindness can help reduce instances of bullying and negative behavior. When students understand the importance of treating others with respect, they are less likely to engage in harmful behaviors.

4. **Boosts Mental Health:** Acts of kindness, whether giving or receiving, can boost mental well-being. Encouraging students to be kind can lead to increased feelings of happiness and reduce stress and anxiety.

**Introducing Kindness Quote Posters**

One effective way to promote kindness in the classroom is through visual reminders. The [Kindness Quote Posters for Positive Behavior and Inspiration] available on Teachers Pay Teachers are a fantastic resource to achieve this goal.

**How to Use Kindness Quote Posters in Your Classroom**

1. **Morning Meetings:** Start each day with a kindness quote from the posters. Discuss the meaning of the quote with your students and explore ways they can incorporate its message into their daily interactions.

2. **Classroom Displays:** Place these posters around the classroom or dedicate a bulletin board to kindness and positive behavior. The colorful and inspiring designs will catch students' attention and serve as constant reminders to act kindly.

3. **Reflection Activities:** Use the quotes as prompts for writing or discussion activities. Ask students to reflect on the importance of kindness and share personal experiences where they witnessed or practiced kindness.

4. **Rewards and Recognition:** Highlight a “Kindness Quote of the Week” and recognize students who exemplify the quote’s message through their actions. This not only reinforces positive behavior but also encourages a sense of community and support. We've even had success turning these posters into stickers for bookmarks. When we see kids showing kindness they get the sticker (or printed out mini poster that they can tape) they put these onto a bookmark and collect them throughout the year! Easy, cheap, meaningful, and fun reward! 

**Why Choose These Posters?**

- **Visually Appealing:** The posters are beautifully designed with vibrant colors and eye-catching graphics, making them a great addition to any classroom decor.

- **Thoughtfully Curated Quotes:** Each quote is carefully selected to inspire and motivate students to act with kindness and empathy.

- **Easy to Implement:** Simply print and display the posters in your classroom to start promoting a positive and kind environment.

By integrating these [Kindness Quote Posters] into your classroom, you are providing your students with daily reminders of the importance of kindness. These posters are more than just decorations; they are powerful tools to inspire positive behavior and create a supportive learning environment.

Let’s commit to fostering a culture of kindness in our classrooms. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our students' lives and help them grow into compassionate and empathetic individuals.

Ready to transform your classroom with these inspiring posters? Click [here] to get your set today!

Getting Ready for School T-22 Days!

Hi Friends, 

I wanted to write about what I am doing to prep for school. Here in Connecticut, we don't start school until late August, but my mind is already spinning with school thoughts. When I went into school this week, some of my friends already have their rooms 100% ready to go! Me, it is in boxes. Tomorrow I am heading in (with my 9 & 11 year old) to rearrange and set up my welcoming door. 

This year I used my cricut on Print and Cut to create a fun door decoration. My daughter was avocado obsessed this summer, most days making her own version of avocado toast for breakfast before swim team. Maybe that inspired my door decor, but here is my first part of room set up...my door. I will update tomorrow, when I put this up! Hopefully my class list doesn't change too much in the next 21 days, but either way, it's an easy fix with the cricut. 

Do you create a welcome door? If so what does yours say this fall? I'd love to know. 

Follow us on IG & Facebook to watch us unpack and set up our rooms. 

(P.S. Robyn's room is done and ready to go... 😳...pictures coming soon!)

Sneaking Math Vocabulary into Notebooks for a Quick Game!

Hi Friends, 

It's been so long since I've blogged, but I am trying to bring my blog back and update my TPT store. I changed subjects AGAIN, so you will see more Math resources as well as Science and ELA (hopefully from Robyn). Together, we can cover it all. Our school has been going under major renovations and someday, when it is finished, it should look really nice. Right now, I am still getting used to it with the ever changing cohorts and plans. Tuesday, I am welcoming cohorts A and B into the classroom. It will be basically like a first day of school with 21 in class and 4 online until further notice. On the bright side, 4 online should be easier to manage than 13 online. 

Anyways, I wanted to show off a little teacher hack that I just thought of and love. I created these really cute Math Vocabulary posters for my Unit 1 Math lessons. I wanted cards to match my curriculum, but have the vocabulary word, definition, and example picture all on the front. Once I created these, I thought they would be great for a student's math journal as well as be a great reference point on my bulletin board. 

I printed them as slides 9 to a page and had students cut them out. We added a small piece of tape to the tops, taped them upside down (so we could flip them up) and wrote the vocabulary word on the back. On the board I wrote some examples, students lift the mini poster, read the word and definition and find where my board examples go in their notebook. Basically I've created an interactive notebook game for a concept understand/vocabulary check. Pretty cool, right? It's perfect for the last few minutes of class when there isn't enough time to log into Xtramath or students need to reference vocabulary.  I can leave my examples on the board all week and give the students the full week to finish before we do a quick share out check. 

So here is what the notebook looks like and so far the students have really enjoyed using it as a reference. I am definitely hearing an increase in math vocabulary during discussions as well! win/win! 

I will definitely be making these for future units, so keep an eye out! What math games are your favorite? Since it's my first year teaching math, I'd love to learn some fun activities!