Interactive Modeling for Better Behavior and Smooth Transitions: My Top 5 Routines!

Ah, March—the month where students seem to forget every routine you’ve painstakingly taught them since August. Lining up turns into a conga line, transitions resemble an episode of Wipeout, and somehow, someone is still using scissors to cut their eraser into tiny confetti pieces. Sound familiar?!

The truest thing you'll ever here when it comes to teaching:

There is no "wrong" time to do a classroom reset.

Before we all descend into complete classroom March Madness, let’s take a deep breath and get back to basics: Interactive Modeling — the secret weapon that keeps our classrooms from turning into a free-for-all.

What Is Interactive Modeling (And Why Didn’t I Try This Sooner?)

Unlike the classic "I told them, so they should know" approach (which, let’s be honest, has a 0% success rate), Interactive Modeling actually shows students how to meet expectations. Instead of just telling them, we:

Model the behavior ourselves.

Ask students what they noticed.

Have a student model it, too.

Let the whole class practice.

It’s like a mini reality show where the "winner" gets the prize of not being constantly reminded how to walk in the hallway!

Here are my TOP 5 ways to use interactive modeling with classroom routines:

1. Entering the Classroom Calmly

(Also known as: Entering the Classroom Like a Calm, Collected Human)

How they actually enter: Running, talking, dropping their backpack in the middle of the floor like it’s a crime scene.

How we want them to enter: Walking in, putting belongings away, starting the morning routine like the independent learners we know they can be.

Model: Walk in quietly, put belongings away, and start the morning routine.

Ask: "What did you notice about how I entered?"

Student Model: Choose a student to demonstrate.

Class Practice: Everyone tries it together.

2. Lining Up & Walking in the Hallway

(Also known as: Lining Up Without Looking Like a Flash Mob)

The second you say "Line up," students can interpret this as Run and shove your way to the front! Instead, let’s slow it down.

Model: Show how to stand in line, keep hands to yourself, and walk silently.

Discuss: "What helped us stay safe and respectful?"

Student Model: One or two students demonstrate.

Class Practice: Try it as a group.

3. Using Materials Respectfully

(Also known as: Using Materials Like They’re Not Disposable)

Markers with missing caps. Scissors in the wrong bin. Glue sticks that have been twisted into oblivion. If this sounds like your classroom, it’s time for a refresh.

Model: Take out materials, use them properly, and clean up.

Ask: "What did you see me do with the materials?"

Student Model: Let a student demonstrate.

Practice & Reinforce: Have small groups practice and share observations.

4. Transitioning Between Activities

(Also known as: Making Transitions Less… Dramatic)

Model: Show what a quick and quiet transition looks like (ex. moving from the rug to desks).

Discuss: "What did it look like while I was moving? What did it sound like?"

Student Model: Let a student or small group try.

Class Practice: Have the whole class transition together.

5. Asking for Help

(Also known as: Asking for Help Like a Pro Without Yelling "TEACHERRRR!" Across the Room)

Model: Demonstrate raising your hand, waiting patiently, and using a kind voice.

Ask: "What did you notice about how I asked for help?"

Student Model: Let a student try it.

Class Practice: Students practice with a partner. Bonus points if they don’t wave their arm like they’re hailing a taxi.

Final Thoughts: Reset & Refresh

March is the perfect time for a routine reset. With Interactive Modeling, you’re not just reminding students—you’re engaging them in the process.

Plus, who knows? By reinforcing expectations now, you might just survive the countdown to summer with your sanity intact.

Happy interactive modeling!

Outdoor Learning with Little Learners: Make it Successful and Fun with the 5 Senses!

I know what you're thinking (because I'm that way, too).

Outdoors? Like the great, wide, open OUTSIDE? Where there are no four walls and anything could happen?

I often refer to myself as being a recovering perfectionist, and aspiring good-enough-ist. As an educator, I've also learned that:

- Perfection doesn't exist

- A beautifully crafted lesson doesn't need to involve a Pinterest perfect "classroom transformation," overstimulating supplies, or harping on a cutesy theme (and trust me... I am the former Queen of Cute!).

In fact, lessons that truly stick with kids are cerebral, cater to the whole child, build risk-taking, and allow true creativity to take center stage.

Taking learning outdoors provides students with fresh air, a hands-on approach, and a direct connection to nature. By moving lessons outside, we have the power as teachers to create engaging, memorable learning opportunities that foster lots of curiosity and enthusiasm.

And you know what? It's not as daunting as it sounds. Here are my TOP 5 practical ideas and tips for taking learning outdoors!

1. Plan Lessons Around Nature

Utilize the natural environment to teach various subjects. For example, a math lesson can be as low-prep as measuring tree heights, or counting/sorting different colors of leaves. The outdoors offers endless opportunities for experiential learning!

2. Outdoor Reading Sessions

Take reading time outside. Whether it’s under a tree, on a picnic blanket, or in a school garden, a change of scenery can make reading more enjoyable and relaxing for students. Encourage them to bring their favorite books or select nature-themed literature!

3. Nature Journals

Students can document observations, draw sketches, and write reflections about their outdoor experiences. This activity can enhance their writing and observational skills while making a deeper connection to the environment.

4. Physical Education and Games

Incorporate outdoor physical education classes. Activities like hiking, running, or playing team sports in an open field can improve physical health and teamwork skills. Consider organizing nature scavenger hunts to make physical activity fun and educational.

5. Art and Creativity

Use the outdoors as inspiration for art projects. Encourage students to create nature-inspired artwork using materials like leaves, rocks, and flowers. Outdoor spaces can also be perfect for music and drama activities, allowing students to perform in a natural amphitheater.

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS:

Safety First: Definitely  that all outdoor activities are safe and that students are supervised at all times.

Weather Preparedness: Be prepared for various weather conditions by having a backup plan or suitable outdoor gear.

Accessibility: Make sure that outdoor activities are accessible to all students, considering any mobility or sensory needs.

By taking learning outdoors, you can create enriching, memorable experiences that inspire an appreciation for nature. Explore these ideas and adapt them to fit your teaching style and curriculum needs!

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Ready to get your students outside?

Try a 5 Senses Nature Walk!

You can download these free printables HERE!

Here's to the great outdoors!

My Top 2 Math Workshop Books Every Teacher Should Read

True story: As a child, I had terrible math anxiety. 

I didn't "get" math. There was a definite gap in my concrete and abstract understanding of concepts, and I had to work really hard to understand traditional algorithms.

As a high schooler, there was lots of extra help after school, and too many late nights around the dining room table shedding tears over my homework.

If I had lots of hands-on materials and visuals, I totally would have been better with my multiplication facts (and lots more!).

If you would have told the younger Erin that math would be one of her favorite parts about being a teacher, she would have laughed in your face. But here we are... it's true!

MATH: MY TOP 2 READS

1. Math Workshop in Action by Dr. Nicki Newton

Here's a snapshot at the structure of math workshop, that Dr. Newton guides you through setting up!

Mini-Lessons are concise and engaging, providing a clear and direct introduction to the day’s learning objectives.

Independent Work involves students practicing the concepts and skills introduced, and working at their own pace.

Small Group Instruction allows teachers to provide targeted support to students in flexible groups.

Math Centers are stations set up around the classroom that are hands-on, and give students practice with a variety of math concepts.

Reflection and Sharing is a time when students come together to discuss their learning experiences and share their work.

Doesn't it sound MAGICAL?

Why Math Workshop in Action is Essential for Teachers

You'll learn how to set up and conduct your math workshop, + more.

1. Practical Strategies: Dr. Nicki Newton is A. MAZING. She provides a wealth of practical strategies that you can implement immediately! From setting up the classroom environment to managing small group instruction, the book offers step-by-step guidance to make the math workshop model work in any classroom.

2. Student Engagement: The workshop model is designed to engage students actively in their learning. By incorporating hands-on activities, games, and collaborative tasks, the magic of the workshop model is brought to math instruction! It's really exciting to read about how to create a dynamic and interactive math block where students are motivated and excited to learn.

3. Differentiated Instruction: One of the key strengths of a math workshop model is its ability to accommodate diverse learning needs! You'll learn strategies for differentiating instruction, ensuring that all students, from struggling learners to advanced students, receive the support and challenge they need.

4. Focus on Conceptual Understanding: Rather than relying solely on rote memorization and procedural skills (because, UGH), the math workshop model emphasizes deep conceptual understanding. Dr. Newton offers techniques to help students grasp underlying mathematical concepts, fostering a profound and lasting understanding of math!