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The days leading up to Thanksgiving break can be hectic for teachers. Between shortened schedules, assemblies, and excited students, finding something meaningful yet low-prep  can feel like a challenge. I've created a ready-to-go virtual field trip experience that lets students travel back in time to the early 1600s to learn the history and significance of Plymouth colony from multiple perspectives. In this Plymouth Colony virtual field trip, your students will visit historic

Teachers make so many decisions each and every day. Some say that teachers make more decisions in a day than a brain surgeon. With teachers wearing many different hats and needing to make split-second decisions, it can easily lead to decision fatigue. I can think of one year in particular--my fifth year of teaching that led to burnout. After a full day of teaching, I just wanted to come home and lie on the couch. Between being in a new school and learning the ropes of new sys

As we approach the season of giving-thanks and reflect on the story of Thanksgiving and Plymouth Colony, it’s vital that educators take time to teach this chapter of American history with accuracy, nuance, and respect. The popular narrative of Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing a meal and being friends, while appealing, often leaves out deeper truths, multiple voices, and the complexity of what truly happened. Here is how you can use a virtual field trip to teach Thanksgi

If you are new to virtual field trips, I'm so excited that you're here! If you are an Activity Director or Professional who works within...

If you are new to teaching social studies, or are maybe looking for some fresh ideas, this free resource kit is for you! I've designed...

Are you looking for classroom-ready U.S. history content that’s perfect for differentiated instruction, morning bellwork, or independent...

I'm excited to once again share my summer book recommendations for teachers! Since I've been sharing summer books recommendations for...

Today more than ever, older adults are choosing to remain in their homes and age in place. My Sittee (Arabic for grandmother) lived at...

We just got home from an incredible trip to Cuidad de Mexico, which was a surprise trip for my husband's 50th birthday. My husband did...

I'm hearing from social studies teachers across grade levels that the struggle with AI and students simply Googling answers is becoming...

Teaching geography can feel like a daunting task, especially when the subject spans across the history and geography of Ancient China....

Civic education is an important aspect of teaching social studies, and right now during the 2024 election season is a great opportunity...

If you are celebrating Grandparents Day in your elementary classroom and need a fun, but low-prep activity during your celebration, I've...

If you are teaching the Italian Renaissance after your Middle Ages unit, this interactive virtual field trip will help you bring history...

If this is your first year teaching social studies and you want to get a head start on planning, I've got you covered. Maybe you've...

For the past few years, I've been sharing my summer book recommendations. I've heard from so many of you that you love having a book list...

Did you know that every U.S. state has outlined its own set of social studies standards? And we're not talking about the Common Core...

If you are getting ready to teach a sensitive or tough topic with your students, it can be especially helpful to do some prep work. No...

If you are looking for meaningful end-of-year social studies activities to keep your students engaged, check out these great ideas!

Even though Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 each year, learning about earth and human activity can be taught all month long, and...

Since 2012 I've been sharing social studies resources that I've created either for my own classroom or have been the result of teachers...

I don't know about you, but I was one of those teachers who struggled to take my sick days. Creating lesson plans to leave for a...

I'm so excited to share with you my latest virtual field trip that will take your students on an interactive journey to each of the Seven...

Are you ready to take your students on a thrilling journey into the mysterious world beneath our feet? Say goodbye to traditional lesson...

Are you on the lookout for an engaging and low-prep activity that seamlessly blends science and geography into an unforgettable learning...

If your students embark on any of my virtual field trips, I encourage you to delve into this free bonus lesson all about travel etiquette...

This gift guide is a great place to start for meaningful gift ideas for the social studies teacher in your life.

Do you teach a thematic unit on U.S. landmarks or symbols? I want to encourage you to add an important monument to your list--the Crazy...

As a middle school teacher, you understand the need to find engaging and immersive experiences to ignite your student's passion for...

In today's digital age, it's easy for students to rely solely on GPS and smartphones to get from point A to point B. However, there is...

When I was teaching upper elementary, I was always on the lookout for engaging and educational social studies activities. If you are...

Over the past few years, I have been making transitions to live more sustainably and include more eco-friendly choices in my daily life....

Over the past few years, virtual field trips have become an incredible way to engage students in immersive learning experiences. If you...

Are you searching for an interactive way to teach your students about the history and cultural significance of the California Missions?...

Are you a new teacher on a rollercoaster ride of emotions? If that resonates with you, I completely understand! Balancing teaching and...

As educators, we strive to provide our students with rich, diverse, and engaging learning experiences that go beyond the confines of...

As teachers, we know that our students deserve a high-quality social studies education. So often our schools do not provide any materials...

As the back-to-school season approaches, teachers everywhere are juggling lesson plans, classroom setup, and personal goals. Maybe this is the year you finally pack lunches the night before, or commit to leaving school by 4:30. While you’re setting goals for a smoother school year, don’t overlook these four small but powerful habits that can help you stay organized, reduce stress, and create more balance. 1. Discuss Household Responsibilties Before School Starts If you live w

Technology has opened up endless possibilities for education, including virtual field trips. As a teacher, you have the opportunity to...

I'm so excited to share that registration is open for the 2023 First Year Teacher Summit! This is the first virtual event of its kind...

Virtual field trips have become a popular way for educators to provide students with engaging and interactive learning experiences,...

If you are a new teacher or maybe a teacher working in a new building, having a good rapport with your colleagues might be new waters to...

This post contains affiliate links to make it easier for you to find the books shared in this post. Summer break provides a well-deserved...

Are you tired of assigning tests for your social studies units? I want to share an easy-to-implement end-of-unit project that gets...

Preparing for your first interview can be nerve-wracking and it's one of the most commonly asked questions within the First Year Teacher...

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “teachers do it for the outcome, not for the income.” I want to take a moment to dismantle this concept...

I don't know about you, but I find that students are especially intrigued when we learn about the Gilded Age. Maybe it's the glitz, glam,...

Have you ever considered how much your prep time is really worth (in dollars)? One of my biggest teaching hurdles was figuring out how to...

You have likely seen the recent headlines about pandemic learning loss, and the impacts of remote learning. The data from the National...

Do you have sticky notes covering your computer screen or all around your desk? Maybe you have a long to-do list that feels overwhelming and you aren't sure where to even begin. I've been there, and the feeling of being pulled in multiple directions while never seeming to get ahead can lead to burnout quickly. I'm glad you're reading, because this teacher productivity hack is a game-changer. The Urgent Importance Quadrant As teachers, we quickly find out that the work is neve