3 Back-to-School Tips for a Successful Year

With the start of the new school year right around the corner, educators everywhere are gearing up to return to the classroom. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or new to the profession, this time brings with it a mix of excitement and anticipation. To help get you off to a good start and build the foundation for a successful year, we invite you to explore a few practical tips and strategies designed to make your transition back to school smooth and rewarding!

Take a Collaborative Approach to Organization

Establishing clear guidelines and expectations during the first weeks of the academic year is essential to creating a smooth-running classroom. Especially for younger students, classrooms that are well organized and have materials and learning resources in clearly defined locations can help them feel more secure and focused – leading to improved behavior and learning outcomes.

Let your students know that the classroom is their space as well and take into consideration any feedback they might have to improve their overall experience. This collaborative approach not only enhances the learning environment but also encourages students to take pride in their classroom, promoting a more engaged and motivated attitude toward learning.

Prioritize Self-Care

Prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining your well-being throughout the school year. Even a small change can have profound results. For example, in a study published in Cell Reports Medicine, researchers found that daily five-minute breath work and mindfulness meditation led to a tangible improvement in mood and a reduction in anxiety.

By setting aside time for yourself, not only are you allowing yourself to decompress and recharge, but you’re also taking steps to be an even better educator for the students in your care. Plus, modeling self-care behaviors also can encourage students to adopt healthy habits for themselves.

Embrace Free Innovative Resources

To engage your students throughout the year, and to stay up to speed on the latest trends in invention education, check out our free STEM resources, including:

• Ready, Set, STEM Handbook: This collection of accessible STEM activities will help you keep students inspired.
   
• Free STEM Activities: Updated throughout the year, these activities can transform any learning environment into a collaborative, creative space.
   
• Inductee-Inspired Activities: With these downloadable activities, you can introduce your students to the world’s most innovative role models – National Inventors Hall of Fame^® Inductees.
   
• Industry White Papers: Our well-researched white papers examine relevant issues, trends and insights in education.
   
• Partner Stories: These inspiring videos explore how our education partners have implemented National Inventors Hall of Fame invention education programs to solve challenges in their districts.

Explore the Latest Trends in STEM Education

Visit our blog for more classroom and teaching strategies.