the primary brain

How I Told My Students I Am Having a Baby

How I Told My Students I Am Having a Baby

Over the past few months, I have thought about all the ways I could tell my first grade class that I am pregnant. That’s right! I am having baby #2! When I saw Miss Decarbo post this fantastic word search, I knew it was exactly what I needed to tell my class about the baby. Although I have had several teachers and parents already catch on that I... Read more

How I Organize Papers For Students to Take Home

How I Organize Papers For Students to Take Home

I feel like I am always passing out endless amounts of papers from the office. From parent meetings, to holiday reminders, to fundraisers, they just never seem to end! Last year I implemented a student mailbox system. This literally saved my sanity! Any time I receive notes that go home, I give to my mailbox monitor and that student files each p... Read more

How I Organize and Level My Classroom Library

How I Organize and Level My Classroom Library

My first year teaching, I think it took me half the school year to finally be satisfied with the way my classroom library was organized. I inherited an entire library of books from a retired teacher, but the books ranged from pre-school all the way to fourth grade. Needless to say, I felt overwhelmed and it took me a while to get through everyth... Read more

February Reflection Prompt Cards

February Reflection Prompt Cards

February is such a special time of year for students as we celebrate Valentine’s Day. My littles always love to hand out their Valentine cards and treats. Since it is February, I am so excited to discuss love through our daily reflection prompt cards. I like to discuss what love actually is. Often times, we get so carried away by the chocolates,... Read more

For My Valentine Lapbook Keepsake Gift

For My Valentine Lapbook Keepsake Gift

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and I am SO EXCITED about this fun writing craftivity we will be creating! This year I decided to work on narrative writing during Valentine’s week. I love using lapbooks in my classroom because they allow us to work on writing all week by adding small pieces to this lapbook project each day. My student... Read more