As educators, we’ve all been there, dipping into our own pockets to pick up those added extras for our classrooms. Creating a visually stimulating learning environment isn’t always easy when budgets are thin (or non-existent ?). The good news is it’s not impossible. Here are just a few ideas for decorating your classroom inexpensively with maximum impact. 1. Use free resources for teachers – no need to overspend. Cheap classroom decorating ideas don’t have to look cheap. You’ll find a variety of free resources for decorating your classroom by signing up for my free resource library. By becomi ..read more

Following the overwhelmingly positive response to the 'Cute Labels' collection (seriously you guys ?​), your enthusiasm for a sea life theme couldn't be ignored. So, after some brainstorming and a few days locked in my creative cave, I could not be MORE excited to share the Cute Sea Life Decor Collection – a fresh and modern twist on a classic theme showcasing playful illustrations and a stunning color palette. Check out this lookbook of ocean-themed classroom inspiration and go behind the design of my newest collection.  The classic MJLL color palette meets under the sea.  The co ..read more

Ah, classroom organization. I feel like it’s one of things that you either live and love or dread wholeheartedly. If you're the sort of person who enjoys mapping out your classroom with matching labels and tubs, always making sure to color code everything, then hey, I'm right there with you, because I love that stuff too! I also know it can feel hard to get started since it’s such a massive task to tackle. But remember that overhauling your classroom storage and organization is one of the best ways to set you and your students up for success! Research emphasizes that a well-organized learning ..read more

If you were a school kid in the ‘90s like me, chances are you spent your school years in a traditional classroom with cramped desks, plastic seats and fluro lighting. But maybe you also encountered one of those special classrooms: the ones that were lovingly created by a teacher's imagination with loads of personality, warmth and a sense of calm. The ones where you walked into the classroom and saw drawings on the chalkboard, bean bags, reading corners filled with Paul Jennings and space for the odd Mariah Carey dance-break, and just immediately felt at home. If we compare these different cla ..read more

When we’re talking about inclusivity, we need to go deeper than just asking ‘what does an inclusive classroom look like.’ Inclusivity means an environment where students with all backgrounds, abilities, learning styles, special needs, genders and religions feel celebrated and supported in their learning journey.  Recent studies show that benefits of inclusive classrooms go far beyond academic success and can benefit students with or without disabilities. Better relationships between students, teachers and families, fewer absences, critical thinking and better understanding of each other ..read more

I’ll be the first to admit that when I was studying to become a teacher, I mostly focused on all the wonderful, easy aspects of being a teacher: cute classrooms, sweet hand-written notes from students and rewarding teaching experiences. I didn't spend as much time preparing for the days of classroom meltdowns, or how tough if would be to stand in front of an unruly bunch of kids who would rather do *anything* else than to listen to their teacher. Hello imposter syndrome!  Developing classroom strategies to make everyone's days easier was something I well and truly learned on the job, thro ..read more

If you're a new teacher starting your journey in the classroom, first of all: CONGRATULATIONS! It's such an exciting milestone, and it's completely normal to feel excited, nervous, even a little overwhelmed at times. With years of experience in the classroom, I understand the challenges you may face – from your little learners having first day jitters to temper tantrums of epic proportions (lol, eek!) and everything in between. That's why I'm here to share some valuable classroom management strategies to help you navigate through your first year with confidence and composure. Even if you ..read more

You know how much I love teaching, and getting to know a new class of little learners at the beginning of the new school year is definitely one of the highlights! Not to mention, setting up my new classroom in style. But, go find me a teacher who hasn’t lost a night (or two) worth of sleep before the first week of school…IYKYK. The number one thing that’s helped me keep all my bases covered is a good old-fashioned list. So, to help you, I’ve put together this ultimate back to school checklist for teachers that will have you sleeping soundly before the big first day! ?  Classroom manageme ..read more

So you’re on the lookout for some exciting (and also easy) bulletin board ideas? Well, fear not, because I've got you covered! Back in my school days, my teachers were determined to break free from uninspiring message boards by crafting captivating displays. Their creativity knew no bounds, and I still remember being awestruck by the stunning visuals they created using just colorful paper. Let me tell you, those school bulletin boards were anything but boring! Bulletin boards can be highly engaging tools to help inspire your little learners and liven up your lesson plans, and there is no short ..read more

Have you ever walked into a classroom only to find your students fidgeting, interrupting, daydreaming, staring out the window, making paper planes, forgetting their inside voices, pointing out your flaws and the stories that NEVER end... Did I miss anything? Ha! If you don’t laugh you’ll cry. You've probably become quite used to the daily chaos that little learners bring to the classroom. But what if I told you that you have the power to transform your classroom into a calm, relaxing, and productive haven for your students (and you!). In this post, I’ll show you how to create a calm classroom ..read more