The Kindergarten Toolbox

If your kindergarten small groups are constantly interrupted, this episode is for you. Learn how to reduce interruptions during centers by using visual schedules, picture directions, predictable routines, and simple behavior goals that build real independence.

Discover how to help kindergarten students work independently so you can actually teach your small groups without nonstop questions and distractions.

Show Notes: https://kinder...

If you feel like you’re constantly repeating directions and kindergarten students still aren’t listening, this episode is for you. In this episode, we break down why kindergarteners struggle to follow directions the first time and why it’s not about better wording or louder reminders.

You’ll learn how using visuals, structure, and consistent routines helps kindergarten students listen, remember directions, and work more independentl...

Tattling in kindergarten can feel nonstop and exhausting. 

In this episode, Amy breaks down why constant tattling isn’t just a behavior problem, but a trust and classroom culture issue. You’ll learn the difference between tattling and reporting, why ignoring tattles can actually make things worse, and simple, practical strategies to reduce tattling without shutting kids down. From positive behavior shifts to classroom systems that b...

If your kindergarten writing center looks great but your students freeze, wander, or constantly interrupt you, this episode is for you. In this episode, we unpack why kindergarteners struggle with independent writing tasks and how starting with simple skills like labeling can transform your writing center.

You’ll learn how breaking writing into smaller, concrete steps builds confidence, increases independence, and helps kindergarten...

If planning the 100th day of kindergarten has you feeling overwhelmed and behind, this episode is for you. With Pinterest ideas and social media pressure everywhere, it is easy to feel like you need to do more to make the day special.

In this episode, I’m sharing low-prep, low-stress ways to celebrate the 100th day of school that keep routines calm and kids successful. We cover simple activity ideas using materials you already have,...

Do you ever feel like your classroom sounds like a playground no matter how many times you ask your students to be quiet? If you find yourself constantly competing with the chatter of your kindergarten students, this episode is just for you. Today, we're diving into practical, easy to implement strategies to bring peace and order back to your classroom, all while supporting your students' needs.

In this episode, I’m sharin...

If your classroom lineup feels more like a wrestling match than a calm transition, this episode is packed with practical solutions just for you. Kindergarten teachers everywhere know the chaos that happens when it’s time for students to line up, and establishing routines that actually work can feel overwhelming.

Today, I’m sharing the simplest change that transformed my classroom’s lineup routine that took my class from pushing and ...

Picture this: you’re ready to start your kindergarten writing block, but before you’ve even handed out all the papers, you hear every student call out “I don’t know what to write about.” The stress and confusion that often swirl around writing blocks can leave even the most prepared teachers feeling exhausted. If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by blank stares and reluctant writers, this episode is your go-to guide for turnin...

Welcome to The Kindergarten Toolbox Podcast, your go-to guide for creating calmer classrooms and more confident writers in the wonderfully unique world of kindergarten.

I’m Amy Murray — former kindergarten teacher, Type C “organized-in-piles” human, and vanilla-latte enthusiast. After years of helping teachers streamline their classroom routines with tips and tools that actually make sense for 5- and 6-year-olds, I created this podc...