Episode 57: The First Week of School: Go Slow to Go Fast

In this episode, Alex shares the mindset and strategies for a successful first week of school. Instead of rushing into academics, you'll learn why focusing on routines, independence, and classroom community sets the foundation for the rest of the year. Plus, hear why going slow in the beginning helps you move faster later on.

✨ You'll learn:

• Why routines should be your lesson plan during the first week
• What "go slow to go fast" really looks like in the classroom
• How to avoid overwhelming students with too many expectations at once
• Simple first-week activities that teach routines while building independence

💡 This episode will help you start the school year with confidence by focusing on the routines and relationships that matter most.

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

🎓 The P.L.A.Y. Course

Want a step-by-step plan for creating a calm, independent classroom from day one? Inside the P.L.A.Y. Course, Alex walks you through exactly how to teach routines, build classroom management systems, introduce free-flowing centers, and create a developmentally appropriate classroom that supports learning all year long.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the first weeks of school, the P.L.A.Y. Course gives you the roadmap and support to start the year with confidence, not chaos.

👉 Sign up to learn more and be the first to know when enrollment opens!

📚 Print and Play Club

Print and Play Club members have access to first-day activities, routine cheat sheets, classroom songs, and printable resources that make teaching routines simple and engaging. Not a member yet? Click here to join the club!

The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast! 

Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier. 

Subscribe now and start teaching with confidence and joy!

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Visit us online: https://www.thekindgergartenconnection.com

Join us at https://www.printandplayclub.com