<![CDATA[Engaging Early Learners]]>8d3953cb-231e-581b-a9e1-dcd6d1d47ce2Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:18 +0000Captivate.fmRachel Glassmanhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/4180c8b0-6857-40de-bccb-f0f15f824f6c/Podcast-Cover-2.pngEngaging Early LearnersRachel GlassmanRachel GlassmanHosted by Rachel, an early childhood teacher and creator behind Engaging Early Learners. This podcast dives into everything from classroom management and student engagement to lesson ideas, routines, small-group instruction, and teacher life behind the scenes. Each episode is designed to be realistic, relatable, and rooted in what truly works with young learners. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned one, you’ll leave each episode with something small (or big!) you can take back to your classroom and make your own, because even if one tiny piece helps your students thrive, that’s a win. https://engaging-early-learners.captivate.fmfalseserialnopodcastE16. The Importance of Instructional Assistants in Special EducationE16. The Importance of Instructional Assistants in Special EducationInstructional assistants play an important role in supporting students and teachers every day, but their perspective is not always talked about. In this Summer Guest Series episode, Rachel talks with Stacey about her experience as an instructional assistant, what her day-to-day work looks like, and the importance of building strong partnerships within the classroom.

This episode offers a closer look at the instructional assistant role and the impact that strong classroom teams can have on students.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>Instructional assistants play an important role in supporting students and teachers every day, but their perspective is not always talked about. In this Summer Guest Series episode, Rachel talks with Stacey about her experience as an instructional assistant, what her day-to-day work looks like, and the importance of building strong partnerships within the classroom.

This episode offers a closer look at the instructional assistant role and the impact that strong classroom teams can have on students.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>2e212716-3720-46f3-a6c7-caf5b064a904Wed, 08 Jul 2026 02:00:00 -040038:08falsefullE15. Lessons Learned After Student TeachingE15. Lessons Learned After Student TeachingTogether, they talk about what student teaching prepared her for, what she didn't expect, and the lessons she's learned along the way. It's an honest conversation filled with encouragement, perspective, and advice for both student teachers and the teachers who mentor them.

In this episode, Rachel and Jess discuss:

• What the transition from student teacher to classroom teacher was really like

• The things that prepared Jess well and what she learned through experience

• Advice for student teachers and cooperating teachers

Resources mentioned:

Student Teacher & Cooperating Teacher Advice: https://engagingearlylearners.com/student-teacher-and-cooperating-teacher-advice-tips/

Connect with Jess:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdWqCSTNmMR/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdZdaO3pKi7/

]]>Together, they talk about what student teaching prepared her for, what she didn't expect, and the lessons she's learned along the way. It's an honest conversation filled with encouragement, perspective, and advice for both student teachers and the teachers who mentor them.

In this episode, Rachel and Jess discuss:

• What the transition from student teacher to classroom teacher was really like

• The things that prepared Jess well and what she learned through experience

• Advice for student teachers and cooperating teachers

Resources mentioned:

Student Teacher & Cooperating Teacher Advice: https://engagingearlylearners.com/student-teacher-and-cooperating-teacher-advice-tips/

Connect with Jess:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdWqCSTNmMR/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdZdaO3pKi7/

]]>fa6aee2e-2895-4707-b0f4-647fac5a58f0Wed, 01 Jul 2026 02:00:00 -040050:00falsefullE14. Supporting English Language Learners with MackenzieE14. Supporting English Language Learners with MackenzieSupporting English Language Learners with Mackenzie

In this episode of the Summer Guest Series, Rachel is joined by Mackenzie, an elementary ESL teacher who shares a behind-the-scenes look at her role, classroom routines, and the strategies she uses to support multilingual learners. From building relationships to collaborating with classroom teachers, Mackenzie offers practical ideas that can be implemented right away.

In this episode, Rachel and Mackenzie discuss:

• Why Mackenzie became an ESL teacher and the routines and procedures that help her classroom run smoothly

• The importance of collaboration between ESL and classroom teachers, including the benefits of push-in support

• Favorite resources, tools, and strategies that help English language learners feel successful and supported throughout the school day

Whether you're an ESL teacher, classroom teacher, or school leader, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and encouragement for supporting multilingual learners.

Connect with Mackenzie:

Instagram: @earlyenglishexplorers

Teachers Pay Teachers: Early English Explorers

Resources Mentioned:

• WordReference

• DeepL Translator

• ESL Newcomer Nurse Visit Support Kit

]]>Supporting English Language Learners with Mackenzie

In this episode of the Summer Guest Series, Rachel is joined by Mackenzie, an elementary ESL teacher who shares a behind-the-scenes look at her role, classroom routines, and the strategies she uses to support multilingual learners. From building relationships to collaborating with classroom teachers, Mackenzie offers practical ideas that can be implemented right away.

In this episode, Rachel and Mackenzie discuss:

• Why Mackenzie became an ESL teacher and the routines and procedures that help her classroom run smoothly

• The importance of collaboration between ESL and classroom teachers, including the benefits of push-in support

• Favorite resources, tools, and strategies that help English language learners feel successful and supported throughout the school day

Whether you're an ESL teacher, classroom teacher, or school leader, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and encouragement for supporting multilingual learners.

Connect with Mackenzie:

Instagram: @earlyenglishexplorers

Teachers Pay Teachers: Early English Explorers

Resources Mentioned:

• WordReference

• DeepL Translator

• ESL Newcomer Nurse Visit Support Kit

]]>5d11226e-d6ae-49a0-8ba5-343156455420Wed, 24 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -040039:47falsefullE13. What This Year Reminded Me About TeachingE13. What This Year Reminded Me About TeachingThe end of the school year is the perfect time to reflect on what this year taught us. In this episode, Rachel shares a candid look at her day-to-day experiences, the challenges and successes she encountered, and the lessons that brought her back to the core beliefs that guide her teaching.

She explores what she's choosing to carry forward into next year and what she's ready to leave behind.

In this episode, Rachel shares:

• The lessons from working with students with Emotional Regulation Impairment (ERI), including the power of being intentional, consistent, and responsive to individual student needs

• Why building relationships and trust is the foundation for supporting students and creating meaningful growth

• Reflection questions and practical takeaways to help you refine your practice, strengthen what worked, and move into the next school year with purpose

Whether you're wrapping up your first year or your twentieth, this episode will help you reflect with purpose and head into the next school year.

Regulation Check-In

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

]]>The end of the school year is the perfect time to reflect on what this year taught us. In this episode, Rachel shares a candid look at her day-to-day experiences, the challenges and successes she encountered, and the lessons that brought her back to the core beliefs that guide her teaching.

She explores what she's choosing to carry forward into next year and what she's ready to leave behind.

In this episode, Rachel shares:

• The lessons from working with students with Emotional Regulation Impairment (ERI), including the power of being intentional, consistent, and responsive to individual student needs

• Why building relationships and trust is the foundation for supporting students and creating meaningful growth

• Reflection questions and practical takeaways to help you refine your practice, strengthen what worked, and move into the next school year with purpose

Whether you're wrapping up your first year or your twentieth, this episode will help you reflect with purpose and head into the next school year.

Regulation Check-In

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

]]>15eb63cf-0000-4f0d-b5b9-793bcdc4143aWed, 17 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -040019:43falsefullE12. How I Make ESY Work Every SummerE12. How I Make ESY Work Every SummerExtended School Year doesn't have to feel overwhelming.

In this episode, Rachel shares her experience teaching ESY and breaks down what it looks like in practice. She explains who qualifies for ESY services, why some students need support over the summer, and what makes teaching ESY manageable for educators.

Rachel also walks through her daily schedule, how she uses weekly themes to keep students engaged, and the planning systems that help her stay organized throughout the summer.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What ESY is and how it works

• Why some students qualify for Extended School Year services

• Simple strategies for staying organized during ESY

If ESY is on your schedule this summer, this episode will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and how to make it work for both you and your students.

ESY bin for this summer:

ESY setup last summer:

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

ESY Schedule last summer:

Cooking during ESY:

Lucky Little Learners All Access Membership

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

]]>Extended School Year doesn't have to feel overwhelming.

In this episode, Rachel shares her experience teaching ESY and breaks down what it looks like in practice. She explains who qualifies for ESY services, why some students need support over the summer, and what makes teaching ESY manageable for educators.

Rachel also walks through her daily schedule, how she uses weekly themes to keep students engaged, and the planning systems that help her stay organized throughout the summer.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What ESY is and how it works

• Why some students qualify for Extended School Year services

• Simple strategies for staying organized during ESY

If ESY is on your schedule this summer, this episode will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and how to make it work for both you and your students.

ESY bin for this summer:

ESY setup last summer:

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

ESY Schedule last summer:

Cooking during ESY:

Lucky Little Learners All Access Membership

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

]]>19a04110-e2ad-4704-b93a-a51133fb1bbfWed, 03 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -040016:21falsefullE11. End of Year Teacher Organization Tips That Actually HelpE11. End of Year Teacher Organization Tips That Actually HelpThe end of the school year can feel chaotic. Between wrapping up the classroom, packing everything away, and trying to survive the final days, it’s easy to shove things into cabinets and hope for the best in August.

In this episode, Rachel shares practical steps for closing down your classroom with your future self in mind. From purging what you no longer need to creating systems that make back to school easier, these are realistic tips teachers can actually use.

If you want to avoid walking into classroom chaos after summer break, this episode is full of simple ways to reset your space now so future you will be thankful later.

Amazon Links

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 1

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 2

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 3

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 4

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 5

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>The end of the school year can feel chaotic. Between wrapping up the classroom, packing everything away, and trying to survive the final days, it’s easy to shove things into cabinets and hope for the best in August.

In this episode, Rachel shares practical steps for closing down your classroom with your future self in mind. From purging what you no longer need to creating systems that make back to school easier, these are realistic tips teachers can actually use.

If you want to avoid walking into classroom chaos after summer break, this episode is full of simple ways to reset your space now so future you will be thankful later.

Amazon Links

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 1

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 2

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 3

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 4

Packing Up At The End Of The Year: Part 5

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>efaaa4cf-dfd9-491d-8782-28a86f5e3d65Wed, 27 May 2026 13:35:00 -040020:27falsefullE10. Surviving the Final Weeks of SchoolE10. Surviving the Final Weeks of SchoolThe end of the school year often brings mixed emotions for teachers. You can love your students and still feel overwhelmed. You can love teaching and still need a break.

In this episode, Rachel shares an honest conversation about the emotional weight of this season and why the final weeks of the school year can feel especially challenging. From decision fatigue to overstimulation and exhaustion, many teachers are simply trying to make it to summer.

This episode is part encouragement, part survival guide, and a reminder that you are not alone in what you’re feeling. Rachel discusses the emotional complexity of this time of year, including how it’s possible to feel both sadness and excitement as summer approaches.

She also shares practical ways to make these last few weeks more manageable, including permission to stop striving for perfection. You do not have to earn exhaustion to prove you care.

If you’re counting down the days to summer while carrying the emotional weight of the school year, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and a little more prepared to finish strong.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>The end of the school year often brings mixed emotions for teachers. You can love your students and still feel overwhelmed. You can love teaching and still need a break.

In this episode, Rachel shares an honest conversation about the emotional weight of this season and why the final weeks of the school year can feel especially challenging. From decision fatigue to overstimulation and exhaustion, many teachers are simply trying to make it to summer.

This episode is part encouragement, part survival guide, and a reminder that you are not alone in what you’re feeling. Rachel discusses the emotional complexity of this time of year, including how it’s possible to feel both sadness and excitement as summer approaches.

She also shares practical ways to make these last few weeks more manageable, including permission to stop striving for perfection. You do not have to earn exhaustion to prove you care.

If you’re counting down the days to summer while carrying the emotional weight of the school year, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and a little more prepared to finish strong.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>bbb7f741-aa76-4e25-869e-5ecf01f970eaWed, 20 May 2026 01:00:00 -040021:25falsefullE9. What Schools Look For In Teacher InterviewsE9. What Schools Look For In Teacher InterviewsTeacher interviews and demo lessons can feel overwhelming, especially when the goal feels like sounding perfect. In this episode, Rachel breaks down what schools are actually looking for during the hiring process and how to show up in a way that feels confident, prepared, and real.

Schools are not just trying to see if you can teach. They are paying attention to how you handle stress, whether you are coachable, and how you fit into a team. That shift in perspective alone can completely change how you walk into an interview.

Rachel shares practical strategies to help you stand out, from how to prepare and practice ahead of time, to how to research the school so your answers feel intentional instead of generic. She also walks through how to approach common interview questions in a way that feels natural, not rehearsed.

This episode is packed with actionable tips and real examples from Rachel, including specific questions and how to answer them so you feel more confident going into both interviews and demo lessons.

Read the Blog: https://engagingearlylearners.com/teacher-interview-tips-and-example-questions/

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>Teacher interviews and demo lessons can feel overwhelming, especially when the goal feels like sounding perfect. In this episode, Rachel breaks down what schools are actually looking for during the hiring process and how to show up in a way that feels confident, prepared, and real.

Schools are not just trying to see if you can teach. They are paying attention to how you handle stress, whether you are coachable, and how you fit into a team. That shift in perspective alone can completely change how you walk into an interview.

Rachel shares practical strategies to help you stand out, from how to prepare and practice ahead of time, to how to research the school so your answers feel intentional instead of generic. She also walks through how to approach common interview questions in a way that feels natural, not rehearsed.

This episode is packed with actionable tips and real examples from Rachel, including specific questions and how to answer them so you feel more confident going into both interviews and demo lessons.

Read the Blog: https://engagingearlylearners.com/teacher-interview-tips-and-example-questions/

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>46ebf8f4-cc65-4548-826e-68c17577e487Wed, 13 May 2026 03:00:00 -040024:35falsefullE8. From My First Year Teaching to Where I Am NowE8. From My First Year Teaching to Where I Am NowRachel shares her teaching journey from her first year in the classroom to where she is now, and how her experience has evolved over time.

She starts with the early years of teaching, reflecting on long days, building classroom resources, and learning what the day-to-day reality of the profession actually looked like. Through her transition into co-teaching, her decision to leave a district she worked in for years, and what it was like stepping into a new district with a different structure and approach.

She also shares the questions she was asked along the way and what it felt like to navigate those decisions while still working within education.

This episode shifts from Rachel’s teaching timeline into a more personal reflection on who she is as an educator, what has shaped her approach in the classroom, and the experiences that continue to inform her work. She also shares insights that may be meaningful for other teachers navigating their own journeys.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>Rachel shares her teaching journey from her first year in the classroom to where she is now, and how her experience has evolved over time.

She starts with the early years of teaching, reflecting on long days, building classroom resources, and learning what the day-to-day reality of the profession actually looked like. Through her transition into co-teaching, her decision to leave a district she worked in for years, and what it was like stepping into a new district with a different structure and approach.

She also shares the questions she was asked along the way and what it felt like to navigate those decisions while still working within education.

This episode shifts from Rachel’s teaching timeline into a more personal reflection on who she is as an educator, what has shaped her approach in the classroom, and the experiences that continue to inform her work. She also shares insights that may be meaningful for other teachers navigating their own journeys.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>8638c72c-fdc8-4563-abbb-a42909622794Wed, 06 May 2026 02:00:00 -040046:26falsefullE7. How to Manage Classroom Behavior Without Burning OutE7. How to Manage Classroom Behavior Without Burning OutIf you feel like you can’t sit down without getting interrupted, this episode will feel very familiar.

In today's episode Rachel talks about what it really takes to build student independence and why so many students rely on us for everything. It’s not their fault. They just haven’t been given the tools yet.

She shares how to shift from doing everything for your students to helping them take ownership, and why independence has to be taught, modeled, and practiced with a lot of patience.

You’ll walk away with simple, realistic strategies you can start using right away, like “ask three before me,” encouraging students to try first, and using visuals to support routines throughout the day, even during those in-between moments like snack time.

And if things feel a little out of control right now, Rachel reminds you it’s never too late to reset. A few consistent systems can completely change how your classroom runs.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>If you feel like you can’t sit down without getting interrupted, this episode will feel very familiar.

In today's episode Rachel talks about what it really takes to build student independence and why so many students rely on us for everything. It’s not their fault. They just haven’t been given the tools yet.

She shares how to shift from doing everything for your students to helping them take ownership, and why independence has to be taught, modeled, and practiced with a lot of patience.

You’ll walk away with simple, realistic strategies you can start using right away, like “ask three before me,” encouraging students to try first, and using visuals to support routines throughout the day, even during those in-between moments like snack time.

And if things feel a little out of control right now, Rachel reminds you it’s never too late to reset. A few consistent systems can completely change how your classroom runs.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>e03f54b4-1257-4cda-a661-d6b16b62d807Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -040010:07falsefullE6. How to Build Student Independence in Your ClassroomE6. How to Build Student Independence in Your ClassroomIf you feel like you can’t sit down without getting interrupted, this episode will feel very familiar.

In today's episode Rachel talks about what it really takes to build student independence and why so many students rely on us for everything. It’s not their fault. They just haven’t been given the tools yet.

She shares how to shift from doing everything for your students to helping them take ownership, and why independence has to be taught, modeled, and practiced with a lot of patience.

You’ll walk away with simple, realistic strategies you can start using right away, like “ask three before me,” encouraging students to try first, and using visuals to support routines throughout the day, even during those in-between moments like snack time.

And if things feel a little out of control right now, Rachel reminds you it’s never too late to reset. A few consistent systems can completely change how your classroom runs.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>If you feel like you can’t sit down without getting interrupted, this episode will feel very familiar.

In today's episode Rachel talks about what it really takes to build student independence and why so many students rely on us for everything. It’s not their fault. They just haven’t been given the tools yet.

She shares how to shift from doing everything for your students to helping them take ownership, and why independence has to be taught, modeled, and practiced with a lot of patience.

You’ll walk away with simple, realistic strategies you can start using right away, like “ask three before me,” encouraging students to try first, and using visuals to support routines throughout the day, even during those in-between moments like snack time.

And if things feel a little out of control right now, Rachel reminds you it’s never too late to reset. A few consistent systems can completely change how your classroom runs.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>7a968c9a-7daa-4f35-b29b-8ee204f555a9Wed, 22 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -040021:09falsefullE5. Teacher Time Management Systems That Actually WorkE5. Teacher Time Management Systems That Actually WorkIf you feel like you’re constantly running out of time, this episode is going to hit home. Because it’s not that you need to do more, it’s that the systems you’re using aren’t supporting you.

In this episode, Rachel breaks down why “being more productive” isn’t the fix and what’s actually causing you to feel behind. From over-grading to overcomplicating lessons, a lot of what’s draining your time doesn’t need to be happening.

She shares what it really looks like to work within your contracted hours, along with simple shifts like stronger transitions, batching, and time blocking that actually give you time back.

This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing things differently so you can protect your time and your mental health.

You’re not behind. You just need better systems that support you.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>If you feel like you’re constantly running out of time, this episode is going to hit home. Because it’s not that you need to do more, it’s that the systems you’re using aren’t supporting you.

In this episode, Rachel breaks down why “being more productive” isn’t the fix and what’s actually causing you to feel behind. From over-grading to overcomplicating lessons, a lot of what’s draining your time doesn’t need to be happening.

She shares what it really looks like to work within your contracted hours, along with simple shifts like stronger transitions, batching, and time blocking that actually give you time back.

This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing things differently so you can protect your time and your mental health.

You’re not behind. You just need better systems that support you.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>53b26fad-b524-4982-8753-958e22580a11Wed, 15 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -040018:50falsefullE4. Teacher Burnout + Mental HealthE4. Teacher Burnout + Mental HealthRachel knows how exhausting teaching can be. In this episode, she shares her experience with burnout and the changes she made to protect her energy and well-being.

She talks about the toll of long hours, feeling guilty for resting, and the pressure of caring so much about students. Rachel explains what boundaries really look like and gives practical strategies you can start using right away. You’ll hear scripts for conversations with colleagues, administrators, and parents, tips for leaving at your contracted time, and ways to prioritize your mental health while still being an effective teacher.

This episode is packed with honest advice and actionable ideas for teachers who want to feel more in control of their time, energy, and work life.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>Rachel knows how exhausting teaching can be. In this episode, she shares her experience with burnout and the changes she made to protect her energy and well-being.

She talks about the toll of long hours, feeling guilty for resting, and the pressure of caring so much about students. Rachel explains what boundaries really look like and gives practical strategies you can start using right away. You’ll hear scripts for conversations with colleagues, administrators, and parents, tips for leaving at your contracted time, and ways to prioritize your mental health while still being an effective teacher.

This episode is packed with honest advice and actionable ideas for teachers who want to feel more in control of their time, energy, and work life.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

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Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>15011206-45d0-4697-95fe-9b56b5af9130Wed, 08 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -040021:52falsefullE3. The Power of the ResetE3. The Power of the ResetEven with strong systems and well planned schedules, challenging behaviors and difficult moments are still part of the day. A hard morning can quickly turn into a heavy, overwhelming day if there is no intentional way to shift out of it.

In this episode Rachel walks listeners through what it looks like to pause, reset, and move forward instead of pushing through dysregulation. The goal is not perfection. It is knowing how to turn things around when the day starts to go off track.

She shares four simple, effective reset strategies that can be used in real time. When teachers take the time to reset, they are not only supporting themselves, they are modeling an essential life skill for their students.

This episode offers practical ways to handle real classroom moments while maintaining a steady, supportive environment for both teachers and students.

Get access to the Free Resource Library and grab the resources mentioned!

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>Even with strong systems and well planned schedules, challenging behaviors and difficult moments are still part of the day. A hard morning can quickly turn into a heavy, overwhelming day if there is no intentional way to shift out of it.

In this episode Rachel walks listeners through what it looks like to pause, reset, and move forward instead of pushing through dysregulation. The goal is not perfection. It is knowing how to turn things around when the day starts to go off track.

She shares four simple, effective reset strategies that can be used in real time. When teachers take the time to reset, they are not only supporting themselves, they are modeling an essential life skill for their students.

This episode offers practical ways to handle real classroom moments while maintaining a steady, supportive environment for both teachers and students.

Get access to the Free Resource Library and grab the resources mentioned!

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>7bb3e34b-ae40-4575-aa53-d8573804adf4Wed, 01 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -040012:30falsefullE2. Systems Deep DiveE2. Systems Deep DiveIf your classroom feels chaotic, it’s not about being louder or adding more consequences. It’s about your systems.

In this episode, Rachel walks through a systems deep dive and shows you what it actually looks like to build a classroom that runs smoothly without constant reminders and corrections. She breaks down five high-impact systems that take the pressure off you and create more consistency for your students.

You’ll hear how to use visual anchors to support independence, simple response and hand signal systems that give students clear ways to communicate, and a call-and-response reset that helps you quickly bring the room back together. She also walks through additional systems that support transitions and keep your day moving without the usual friction.

The key here is not doing everything at once. Pick one system, implement it well, and let it do the heavy lifting.

Better systems really do lead to better teaching, and this episode shows you exactly where to start.

TPT Store Mentioned: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/miss-ms-reading-resources

Visual Cards:

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Direction-Cards-Classroom-Management-for-Visual-Directions-Instructions-8256988

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Direction-Cards-Classroom-Management-for-Visual-Directions-Instructions-8256988

Get access to the Free Resource Library and grab the resources mentioned!

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>If your classroom feels chaotic, it’s not about being louder or adding more consequences. It’s about your systems.

In this episode, Rachel walks through a systems deep dive and shows you what it actually looks like to build a classroom that runs smoothly without constant reminders and corrections. She breaks down five high-impact systems that take the pressure off you and create more consistency for your students.

You’ll hear how to use visual anchors to support independence, simple response and hand signal systems that give students clear ways to communicate, and a call-and-response reset that helps you quickly bring the room back together. She also walks through additional systems that support transitions and keep your day moving without the usual friction.

The key here is not doing everything at once. Pick one system, implement it well, and let it do the heavy lifting.

Better systems really do lead to better teaching, and this episode shows you exactly where to start.

TPT Store Mentioned: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/miss-ms-reading-resources

Visual Cards:

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Direction-Cards-Classroom-Management-for-Visual-Directions-Instructions-8256988

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Direction-Cards-Classroom-Management-for-Visual-Directions-Instructions-8256988

Get access to the Free Resource Library and grab the resources mentioned!

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>2cb19935-1a20-403a-bdc3-b400de503155Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -040016:02falsefullE1. Classroom Systems that Reduce Behavior StrugglesE1. Classroom Systems that Reduce Behavior StrugglesIn the very first episode of Engaging Early Learners, Rachel is starting with a shift that can change your entire day. Instead of focusing on consequences or trying to manage behavior in the moment, she walks through how stronger classroom systems can prevent many of those struggles from happening in the first place.

If the same behaviors keep showing up, it’s usually not about the child. It’s a sign that something in the system needs to be adjusted. Small, intentional changes can naturally reduce a large portion of behavior challenges without adding more to your plate.

In today’s episode, you’ll hear:

  1. Why repeated behaviors are often a systems issue, not a student issue
  2. How transitions, directions, and waiting time impact behavior
  3. Simple shifts that can reduce a large percentage of daily struggles

This episode is a reminder that we have more control than it sometimes feels like. When systems are strong and predictable, students feel safer, more confident, and better able to meet expectations.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>In the very first episode of Engaging Early Learners, Rachel is starting with a shift that can change your entire day. Instead of focusing on consequences or trying to manage behavior in the moment, she walks through how stronger classroom systems can prevent many of those struggles from happening in the first place.

If the same behaviors keep showing up, it’s usually not about the child. It’s a sign that something in the system needs to be adjusted. Small, intentional changes can naturally reduce a large portion of behavior challenges without adding more to your plate.

In today’s episode, you’ll hear:

  1. Why repeated behaviors are often a systems issue, not a student issue
  2. How transitions, directions, and waiting time impact behavior
  3. Simple shifts that can reduce a large percentage of daily struggles

This episode is a reminder that we have more control than it sometimes feels like. When systems are strong and predictable, students feel safer, more confident, and better able to meet expectations.

Get access to the Free Resource Library

Shop Engaging Early Learners on Teachers Pay Teachers

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>8d5d050d-a920-4666-af0f-81bddd2f6180Wed, 18 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -040016:02falsefullEngaging Early Learners with Rachel GlassmanEngaging Early Learners with Rachel GlassmanHi, I’m Rachel, and welcome to Engaging Early Learners, the podcast for teachers who want practical, no-nonsense strategies to help their students actually learn and remember. Every week, I share tips, ideas, and classroom tested strategies you can use right away to make teaching easier and learning stick.

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>Hi, I’m Rachel, and welcome to Engaging Early Learners, the podcast for teachers who want practical, no-nonsense strategies to help their students actually learn and remember. Every week, I share tips, ideas, and classroom tested strategies you can use right away to make teaching easier and learning stick.

Find me on my social media platforms:

Instagram: @EngagingEarlyLearners

Facebook: Engaging Early Learners

Facebook Group: Engaging Early Learners Community

Website: EngagingEarlyLearners.com

Pinterest: Engaging Early Learners

Email: Rachel@engagingearlylearners.com

]]>8fa77066-0813-44b5-b801-5c0edde28b98Wed, 11 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -040003:24falsetrailer