Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! We all know that self-care is important, but let’s be honest: between lesson planning, grading, and keeping your sanity in a bustling classroom, finding time for it can feel impossible. But what if I told you that self-care doesn’t need to be a separate task on your already overwhelming to-do […]
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Let’s talk about something we all know is important but can sometimes feel like a time-consuming chore—lesson planning. It’s easy to feel like lesson plans are just another item on a never-ending to-do list, but I’m here to remind you that planning isn’t just busywork—it’s the secret sauce to a
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! One of the first words I teach my students when learning Spanish is “gracias”—and not just because it’s easy to say. Teaching “gracias” offers students a quick win that boosts their confidence and introduces them to one of the most important lessons: gratitude. With this simple word, students can experience
Teaching “Gracias”: A Quick Win That Teaches More Than Just a Word Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Let’s talk about a simple yet powerful way to boost language acquisition in your Spanish classroom: the Phrase of the Week. Incorporating a new phrase each week helps students not only learn language but also gain deeper cultural appreciation. Language is more than words—it’s a window into how people express
¡No me digas! Boost Spanish Learning with a Weekly Phrase Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! We’ve talked about what differentiated instruction is and how to implement it effectively, but let’s clear up some common myths that might be holding you back from fully embracing this approach in your classroom. Differentiation often gets misunderstood, so we’re here to set the record straight! In this post, we’ll
Myths About Differentiated Instruction (And Why They’re Just Myths!) Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Today, let’s talk about the importance of researching other cultures and how it can broaden students’ perspectives, build empathy, and deepen their understanding of the world. When students explore the traditions, history, and geography of another country, they’re not just learning facts—they’re developing a global mindset that helps them connect
The Value of Researching Another Culture: Expanding Horizons and Building Connections Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Let’s talk about one of the most fun and effective ways to immerse your students in language—teaching classroom expressions. These everyday phrases aren’t just about communication; they’re about building connections, fostering confidence, and bringing a little more fun into language learning! By teaching expressions like “¿Puedo ir al baño?” and
¡Exprésate! Teaching Fun Spanish Expressions in the Classroom Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Let’s talk about a simple but highly effective tool for language learning—word walls. Word walls combine the power of visuals and repetition to reinforce vocabulary, making it easier for students to absorb and retain new words. Whether you’re teaching in-person or virtually, word walls provide constant visual reinforcement that helps
¡Mira y Aprende! The Power of Word Walls for Spanish Vocabulary Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Let’s talk about how a calm and organized classroom can set the stage for student creativity. It’s easy to think that creativity thrives in chaos, but the truth is, a clutter-free, organized environment gives students the mental space they need to think freely, explore new ideas, and express themselves without
Messy? No Más! How Classroom Organization Inspires Creativity Read More »
Hey there, Joyful Journey Makers! Let’s talk about one of the most important (yet often feared) parts of learning—making mistakes. In language learning, mistakes aren’t something to avoid; they’re essential for growth. But why are mistakes so crucial? Neuroscience research shows that when students make mistakes, their brains are actively engaged, building stronger connections and
Why Making Mistakes is Essential for Learning: The Neuroscience Behind It Read More »