Strategies for Supporting Restless Students Practical, Beginner-Friendly Tips for Substitute Teachers and New Educators If you’re new to the classroom—or stepping in as a substitute teacher—you’ve likely already met them: the students who just can’t sit still. The ones who tap their…
How to Get Elementary Students’ Attention Fast (Without Raising Your Voice) If you’ve ever walked into an elementary classroom that feels like a whirlwind of small voices, moving parts, and boundless energy… you’re not alone. Kids in K–5 are enthusiastic,…
Elementary Attention-Getters That Work Every Time Looking for quick, reliable ways to get an elementary classroom’s attention? These simple, sub-friendly attention-getters work in any grade, require zero prep, and help you calm the room in seconds. Whether you’re a substitute…
“They Won’t Stop Talking!” How to Get (and Keep) the Attention of Middle & High School Students Every teacher and substitute eventually faces that class—the one that talks over you, ignores instructions, or seems determined to test every ounce of your patience.…
How to Quickly Gain Respect From Middle & High School Students The small, powerful shifts that help teens listen, engage, and respond—without being strict or “mean.” Walking into a middle or high school classroom can feel like stepping onto a…
The Difference Between a Classroom Supervisor and a Substitute Teacher Understanding the two most common roles in schools — and which one is right for you. If you’re exploring flexible work in education, you’ve probably seen the terms classroom supervisor…
Game of the Week: 4 Corners If you’ve ever had exactly five minutes left in class and needed something fun, fast, and chaos-free, 4 Corners is your new best friend. Here’s how it works: Pro tip: instead of students sitting…
Professional or Comfortable? The Substitute Teacher Dress Code Stepping into a classroom as a substitute teacher means stepping into many roles at once: educator, leader, mentor, and guest in someone else’s learning space. Your clothing might feel like a small…
The Power of Flexibility: Why Adaptability Is a Substitute Teacher’s Superpower If there’s one skill that defines a successful substitute teacher, it’s flexibility. You can have a perfectly packed sub bag, a strong classroom presence, and excellent teaching instincts—but your…