Often as a substitute teacher, you face moments when students are talkative, restless, or rambunctious. The more calm you can bring to your classroom, the better. So, whenever times get tense, you can take a step back and channel some Zen into your classroom. Here’s how. Practice mindfulness. Jon Kabat-Kinn, a famous doctor and pioneer of the mindfulness movement, defines … Read More
How to Survive a Tough Classroom as a Sub
Maybe you’ve known it from the minute you walked in the door. Maybe it’s only as you’re wrapping up your first lesson. There’s no denying it, though: this class is hard to handle. Whether they’re spirited fourth graders who won’t sit down or (seemingly) apathetic tenth graders who won’t look up, any classroom can be set on the right course. … Read More
24 Tips to Engage and Delight Your Sub Class from the Moment You Walk in the Door
A great first impression can make your day in the classroom a success. As a sub, you know how kids can quickly pick up on your expectations and your classroom management style. Older students are also tuned into your personality and credibility. To get the best out of your first day in class, here are 24 tips for how to … Read More
5 Tips for the First 10 Minutes in the Classroom
No one knows the power of first impressions like substitute teachers. Whether you find yourself facing a new class hourly, daily, or weekly, be sure you can answer the question: What kind of first impression do I want to make? And the great thing about being a substitute teacher is that you get to perfect the art of the first … Read More
What the Best Substitute Teachers Do Differently
You don’t want just any substitute filling in at your school — you want the best. And here at Swing, we’ve made it our business to know what sets great subs apart from the pack. Here’s what the very best substitute teachers do differently. They are ready for anything. Stellar substitutes know that anything can happen in another teacher’s classroom. … Read More
5 Things Not to Do on Your First Day in a New Classroom — and What to Do Instead
Your first day in a new classroom is your chance to set the stage for the days to come. You never get a second chance to make a first impression — and with students, if you don’t establish order from the get-go, it’s twice as difficult to get things back on track. Here are 5 substitute teaching mistakes to avoid … Read More
9 Essential Questions for Substitutes to Ask Before the Kids Arrive
The other teachers at the school where you’re subbing are an invaluable resource for you. They can help you create a successful subbing experience. Here are 9 essential questions to ask them. 1. What are the current lesson plans? The best way for you to keep students on track and engaged is to get your hands on their regular … Read More
Are You Ready for Your First Day of Substitute Teaching in a New Classroom? [CHECKLIST]
To help you prepare for your first day in a new classroom, we’ve built this handy substitute teacher checklist. Feel free to tailor it to your own needs! Download the checklist here. From the school Student handbook School schedule Emergency protocol info Attendance procedure Class list Wifi passwords Keys Out-of-class procedures (bathroom, water fountain, etc.) School-wide behavior management plan Directory … Read More
