Summer break has officially come to an end, and the brand new school year has begun! Preparing classrooms, writing up lesson plans, and meetings galore- all the excitement and overwhelm of welcoming a fresh group of students who eagerly await beginning a new chapter in their lives. While this can be a huge adjustment, even for the seasoned educators out there, the transition back into a consistent routine, and not to mention a new classroom and teacher, can be challenging and hectic for children. So the question is, what can you do in your classroom to help each child begin the year feeling prepared, confident, and ready for the next nine months?

As a former educator myself of tiny little humans, I’ve found a few small bits to be mighty beneficial! Perhaps, these aren’t new to you; however, maybe they’re simply a welcome reminder that your students are still young and desperately need your guidance. Below are just a small number of helpful pointers:

  • Ensure you have an established daily routine that is age-appropriate and flexible when needed. Flexibility is key, especially at first. As you know, it takes time for children to adjust accordingly, and that’s a process that cannot be rushed.
  • Create and communicate clear expectations. Ensure that your expectations are appropriate for your class and what they’re capable of, and remember they can always be altered and adjusted when necessary.
  • Allow time for ample amounts of movement breaks and playing! While we’re a little biased on this topic because it’s our passion, it’s scientifically backed.  Movement powers learning-period. Creating time to allow children to run, walk, jump and climb just requires creativity, a smidge of your own inner-child and a dash of adventure. Step outside of the box a little too and play along!

Are you ready for your students’ parents to understand the powerful foundation built on physical play?

The power of visuals is undeniable.  Help the adults in your students’ world wrap their heads around the importance of big-body physical play for their social, emotional, behavioral, and academic journey!  Check out our posters — designed to start a conversation with YOU about the power of play!

Check them out here.

Pivot to Play® Purposeful Play Certification IS HERE!

If you are a preschool teacher, early elementary teacher, PE, Movement, or Creative Movement teacher in preschool or elementary school, then you are in the right place.  This certification is easy to digest and logical.  Riddled with data and studies, this training delivers a powerful punch.

We guide your learning logically, then power it up with the tools you need to succeed, including tips on spotting weaknesses, games to play to strengthen those weaknesses, and tips and tricks to easily incorporate big body, physical play into your program or your day.  Learn more here.