From Research to Recess: The Science Behind Great Teaching

Kids are growing up with screens, and most of us are figuring it out as we go. This episode gets into what digital media actually does to children — their sleep, their attention, their social skills — and what parents, teachers, and community members can do about it. Pediatricians and experts weigh in with real, specific guidance.I've been teaching long enough to watch this shift happen in real time. The kids sitting in front of me now are different from the ones I had ten years ago, and screens are part of that story. What I've learned — in my classroom and from conversations like this one — is that small, consistent changes at home and school make a real difference.What we cover:How digital platforms are built to keep kids hooked — and what that costs themWhat screen time does to sleep, focus, social development, and physical health at different agesPractical age-by-age guidance, from infants through teenagersWhy the example adults set matters more than most of us want to admitSpecific strategies: delaying device access, parental controls, screen-free zones, family routinesWhat educators, pediatricians, and policymakers can actually doWhere AI fits into all of this and why responsible tech design mattersTimestamps:00:00 — Introduction: Digital media's hidden power over children's attention00:30 — The goals of engaging digital design and its impact on kids01:24 — How digital features interfere with children's sleep, health, and family time02:30 — The role of algorithms in collecting data and targeting children with ads03:22 — Effects on concentration, sleep, and behavior at different ages04:36 — Personal experiences with algorithm-driven ads and subconscious listening05:55 — What children notice when adults are glued to their screens06:13 — Setting good digital examples for kids08:36 — Age-specific guidelines: zero to five years — no screens; delays in development09:12 — School-age children: sleep, attention, physical health, and social skills10:47 — Strategies for delaying cell phone access and building independence12:36 — The difference between regular phones and limited-use flip phones for kids14:01 — Teenagers and real risks: harmful content, peer pressure, and self-esteem15:01 — Shared responsibility: healthcare, policy, educators, and families16:24 — Practical steps: quality content, screen-free zones, parental controls, and modeling17:21 — How teens hide their digital activity and why transparency matters18:41 — Screen-free zones in bedrooms and at mealtimes19:36 — The current debate on technology in classrooms20:24 — AI's potential to reshape how kids experience the world — and why responsible use matters20:45 — Next steps for protecting children's digital safetyResources and Links:https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/helping-kids-thrive-in-a-digital-world-AAP-policy-explained.aspxWHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum: ⁠⁠⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠⁠⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠⁠⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

Mastering Subitizing and Number Sense in Early Math EducationIn this episode, we dig into the concept of subitizing – the quick recognition of small quantities – and its big role in developing number sense from pre-K through elementary grades. We explore practical classroom strategies, the importance of games and visual tools, and how to build flexible math thinking that lasts beyond the early years.Key topics:The definition and types of subitizing: perceptual and conceptualHow subitizing supports number sense and elementary math growthSimple, effective tools for teaching subitizing (dot cards, dominoes, tally marks)Bringing in games like Penny Drop, dominoes, and dice to strengthen recognition skillsUsing quick assessment routines to gauge and develop students' subitizing abilitiesWhy part-part-whole understanding matters in additionWeaving subitizing practice into classroom routinesTips for organizing and using visual and tactile math tools at low costTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to subitizing and its importance in math readiness02:12 - Explaining perceptual and conceptual subitizing03:51 - How to assess and promote rapid recognition of dots06:19 - Using games and everyday objects (dominoes, dice) for subitizing practice08:47 - The approximate number system (ANS) and its connection09:34 - Practical tips for creating DIY subitizing tools (dot plates, tally cards)11:30 - Weaving subitizing into daily math routines14:06 - Ways to quickly assess student understanding during lessons15:39 - Supporting slow or shy responders with intentional wait time16:38 - Creative ideas for organizing visual math tools at low cost17:07 - How to extend these strategies beyond early childhoodResources & Links:Learning Trajectories of Subitizing, a conversation with Dr. Douglas ClementsJack Hartmann Subitizing Video on YouTubePenny Drop Game on Amazon10 Frame Printable TemplatesDomino Sets for Math GamesSource:Math for Math Learning Trajectories & Subitizing: A Conversation with Dr. Douglas ClementsWHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum: ⁠⁠⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠⁠⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠⁠⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

In this episode, we discuss two big areas in early education — dialogic reading techniques that deepen comprehension and strategies for building self-regulation skills, especially in post-pandemic classrooms. Both topics have a direct impact on how kids engage, bounce back, and learn.Main Topics:The science and application of dialogic reading to improve student comprehensionPractical prompts and question strategies to actively involve students during read-aloudsBuilding self-regulation skills as a cornerstone of classroom management and learning successHow the pandemic affected student self-regulation and emotional regulationSchool-wide approaches and teacher strategies to support executive function developmentUsing visual supports and modeling to build emotional awareness and regulationWhy social-emotional learning matters for academic and life outcomesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to dialogic reading and its research foundation02:22 - The peer and crowd prompts — what they are and how to use them03:30 - Why open-ended questions matter during read-alouds04:39 - Using annotations and margin notes to build comprehension and engagement05:37 - Moving beyond simple recall questions to richer language and connection prompts06:39 - How turn-and-talk supports active learning and language development07:43 - Connecting story content to students' personal experiences for deeper understanding08:12 - Story retelling and oral language practice09:16 - Recent research on the value of oral language and discussion in literacy09:40 - Why read-alouds are disappearing from classrooms — and why that needs to change10:00 - Resources and tools for dialogic reading prompts11:19 - How to balance questions across first reads and rereads12:42 - Looking at illustrations and understanding the illustrator's process13:14 - The link between self-regulation, emotional health, and academic achievement13:37 - Coming up: digital tools and their impact on self-regulationResources & Links: Dialogic Reading's Potential to Improve Children's Emergent Literacy Skills and BehaviorAdditional Research:Pillinger & Vardy (2022)A Systematic Review of the Dialogic Reading LiteratureThis is one of the strongest recent reviews because it analyzed many dialogic reading studies together and confirmed positive effects on language and literacy outcomes. The story so far: A systematic review of the dialogic reading literatureLepola et al. (2023)Opportunities to Talk Matter in Shared ReadingThis study highlighted the importance of children’s active verbal participation during read-alouds. Opportunities to Talk Matter in Shared Reading: The Mediating Roles of Children’s Engagement and Verbal Participation in Narrative Listening ComprehensionDong et al. (2024)Effects of Dialogic Reading Elements on Children’sLanguage DevelopmentThis research examined which dialogic reading practices were most effective and found strong benefits for listening comprehension and vocabulary growth. Effects of dialogic reading elements on children's language development WHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum:⁠⁠⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠⁠⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠⁠⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

If you’ve been hearing more people talk about play-based learning lately, you’re not imagining it. In this episode, we’re digging into why play is finally making its way back into early childhood classrooms and what that means for teachers. We chat about the research behind guided play, how scripted curricula changed kindergarten classrooms over the years, and simple ways teachers can bring more joy and engagement back into learning without sacrificing strong instruction.We also talk about the difference between free play and guided play, why that distinction matters, and how playful learning supports both academic growth and social-emotional development. Plus, we share practical ideas teachers can use to advocate for developmentally appropriate practices with administrators and families.Why play-based learning faded after No Child Left Behind and why educators are pushing for it againWhat the research says about guided play and student learning outcomesHow standardized testing pressures reshaped kindergarten classroomsThe difference between free play and guided play (and why guided play matters)Simple ways teachers can build more playful learning into the school dayWhy balancing direct instruction with movement and play helps attention and engagementThe challenges of scripted “big box” curricula in early childhood classroomsResearch from 2022 showing the positive impact guided play has on foundational skillsHonest reflections on classroom climate, teacher joy, and student engagementPractical advocacy tips for teachers who want to create more developmentally appropriate classroomsTIMESTAMPS:00:00 – Why play-based learning is making a comeback00:21 – Teachers asking for more play-focused professional development00:42 – How No Child Left Behind changed kindergarten classrooms01:11 – The role standardized testing played in reducing play02:34 – States beginning to support play-based learning models again03:57 – The problem with scripted curriculum in early childhood04:36 – Guided play vs. free play: what’s the difference?07:50 – Easy ways to integrate guided play into daily lessons08:32 – How playful learning supports both academics and social skills10:06 – Balancing direct instruction and play for better engagement11:18 – Thoughts on curriculum design and administrator support12:18 – Advocacy tips for bringing more joy and play into classrooms13:04 – Encouragement for teachers creating joyful learning environmentsRESEARCH ARTICLE:Play-Based Learning in Kindergarten Is Making a Comeback. Here’s What It MeansWHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum: ⁠⁠⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠⁠⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠⁠⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

Are treasure boxes ruining motivation? Should we ditch desk pets? And how do we encourage students to genuinely want to learn instead of always working for a reward?In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about intrinsic motivation in the classroom and what it means for teachers today. We share practical ways to support student motivation while still creating a fun, engaging classroom environment.We also talk about:Why external rewards often work short-term but don’t always build lasting motivationThe four key drivers of intrinsic motivation: autonomy, competence, relatedness, and relevanceHow classroom boundaries actually support emotional safety and student growthWhy classroom culture matters more than any prize boxWays to make learning engaging without relying on constant tangible rewardsHow PBIS and school-wide systems influence student behaviorPractical ideas for balancing structure, fun, and motivation in your classroomIf you’ve ever felt torn between using incentives and wanting students to develop internal motivation, this episode is full of thoughtful discussion and classroom-tested ideas.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction and episode overview00:25 – Treasure boxes, rewards, and classroom motivation01:09 – Boundaries, classroom expectations, and student behavior02:31 – Why structure supports intrinsic motivation03:49 – Motivation matters at every grade level04:23 – Grades, prizes, desk pets, and external motivators05:23 – Creating the right classroom conditions for learning06:21 – Short-term compliance vs. long-term motivation07:01 – The four pillars of intrinsic motivation08:43 – Setting up a classroom environment that supports motivation09:13 – Fun alternatives to material rewards10:16 – PBIS, behavior systems, and classroom culture11:37 – Encouraging authentic behavior instead of compliance13:39 – When rewards become distractions15:48 – Creative classroom engagement ideas16:53 – Building a classroom culture where rewards aren’t the focus17:03 – Desk pets, classroom tools, and moderation18:00 – Managing distractions while keeping learning fun18:42 – Final thoughts on balancing motivation and structure19:27 – Wrap-up and resourcesRESEARCH ARTICLE:How to Promote the Intrinsic Desire to LearnWHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum: ⁠⁠⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠⁠⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠⁠⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

Moving to a new grade level can bring a lot of big feelings for young learners. In this episode, we chat about ways teachers and families can support children emotionally during those important transitions.We talk about what it’s really like for students to leave a familiar classroom, meet a new teacher, and adjust to new routines and expectations. Hilary shares practical, encouraging ideas that help children feel more confident, less anxious, and more prepared for what’s ahead.If you’re wrapping up the school year in your classroom or helping your child get ready for a new beginning, you’ll walk away with simple strategies you can start using right away.In this episode, we discuss:Why grade-level transitions can feel overwhelming for young childrenCommon emotional reactions students may experience during changeSimple ways teachers can help students feel emotionally ready for a new classroomHow families and teachers can work together to support children through transitionsConfidence-building strategies that help students feel safe and secureRoutines and conversations that can ease transition anxietyWays to help children feel excited and optimistic about their next stepKEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS ARTICLE:Emotional readiness matters just as much as academic readinessPredictable routines and reassurance can help reduce anxietySmall supports and everyday conversations make a big impactStrong home-school connections help children feel more confident and secureCHAPTERS00:00Navigating Transitions: Preparing Students for New Grades15:09Practical Strategies for Emotional Readiness15:53Building Confidence and Independence in StudentsSOURCE ARTICLE:Children’s Experience of Transition from Preschool To Primary School: A Scoping Literature ReviewEPISODE FREE FILE: Helping Your Child Feel Ready for the Next GradeWHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum: ⁠⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

This episode explores the connection between language processing difficulties and classroom behaviors. Deedee and Hilary discuss practical strategies for teachers to identify and support students with language challenges, emphasizing the importance of instructional adjustments and understanding behavior as communication.KEY TOPICSLanguage processing and classroom behaviorInstructional strategies for diverse learnersRecognizing behavior as communicationTAKEAWAYSBehavior is often a symptom of language processing difficulties.Breaking instructions into simple steps can improve student engagement.Using visuals and pacing helps students follow directions.Recording and analyzing your instructions can reveal areas for improvement.CHAPTERS:00:00 Understanding Behavior vs. Language Processing02:52 Interpreting Student Behaviors05:57 Effective Instructional Strategies09:01 Enhancing Communication in the Classroom12:00 Building Vocabulary and Understanding14:58 Reframing Challenges in EducationSOURCE ARTICLE: Social, emotional, and behavioral skills in students with or without specific learning disabilities⁠EPISODE FREE FILE: During this episode, we promised you a free file, you can download it by clicking:“Is It Behavior or Language?” Quick Strategy Checklist for Kindergarten TeachersWHERE YOU CAN FIND US:Hilary Statum: ⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

This episode explores the critical social-emotional and developmental skills children need before starting kindergarten. Hosted by educators Deedee and Hillary, it discusses recent research, classroom observations, and practical tips for parents and teachers to prepare children for school success.KEY TOPICSSocial-emotional development in childrenImpact of screen time and parental engagementImportance of fine motor skills and pencil gripCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Social Emotional Skills03:00 The Importance of Developmental Domains06:03 Engagement in Learning Activities08:54 The Role of Parents in Read-Alouds11:57 Challenges in Kindergarten Readiness14:57 Conclusion and Future OutlookSOURCE ARTICLE: To Be Ready for Kindergarten, Teachers and Researchers Say Social-Emotional Skills Are KeyLEARN MORE: https://mrswillskindergarten.com/podcast2/key-developmental-domains-for-kindergarten-readiness-and-why-social-emotional-skills-matter-most/Where can you find us?Hilary Statum: ⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

There is something so powerful about bilingual literacy. Truly. And it’s one of those topics that deserves an honest, real conversation.In this episode, we’re digging into why English-only instruction still shows up in so many classrooms… even when the research points us in a different direction. Because when we lean into multilingual practices, we’re not slowing readers down. Not even close. We’re actually helping them grow stronger, more flexible thinking skills while honoring the language and culture that make them who they are.If you’re teaching multilingual learners, supporting them at home, or making decisions at the school level, this conversation is going to give you some things to think about. The kind of ideas that stick with you and quietly shift how you approach literacy instruction.We talk about why learning in more than one language is not a hurdle. It’s a boost. A BIG one. You’ll hear how reading across languages strengthens comprehension and how translanguaging works with the brain, not against it. No confusion. Just deeper understanding.And we get into the classroom side of things too. The simple, doable shifts that actually make a difference:• How Spanish and English cognates can support faster decoding• Why Spanish’s consistent sound patterns can build a strong reading foundation• Easy ways to create a classroom that reflects and values multiple languages (think labels, visuals, and everyday routines)These are the kinds of moves that don’t require a full overhaul. Just small, intentional changes that add up in a big way.You’ll walk away with practical ideas you can try right away. Ways to encourage home language use. Ways to build a more responsive classroom. Ways to support multilingual learners so they feel seen, capable, and successful.Because this episode? It’s about more than literacy instruction.It’s about equity. It’s about identity. It’s about making sure every child gets to bring their full self into the learning space.And when we start seeing bilingualism as the strength that it is… everything shifts. Truly.Source Article: https://iei.nd.edu/initiatives/notre-dame-center-for-literacy-education/news/at-the-frontier-of-literacy-development Where can you find us?Hilary Statum: https://pencilstopigtails.com/Deedee Wills: https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

What if the secret to better math engagement in kindergarten isn’t more seatwork… but more movement?In this episode, we’re talking about how to bring gross motor activities right into your math block without losing valuable instruction time. And this isn’t just about getting the wiggles out. When movement is intentional, it actually boosts focus, builds automaticity, and helps skills stick.We’re sharing a simple way to make this work in your classroom. Nothing complicated. Just thoughtful, purposeful activities that line up with your math goals.Think things like:• Tossing a foam ball while practicing addition facts• Hopping on shapes to reinforce geometry• Using scooter boards outside for counting and number recognitionThese aren’t just brain breaks. They’re learning moments. And your students will feel the difference.We also talk about how to connect these activities to your standards and use tools like number bonds and tally marks while students are up and moving. Because yes… you can build fluency and keep engagement high at the same time.And if math anxiety has been creeping in for some of your students, this is something to pay attention to. Short, structured movement can help students feel more relaxed and ready to learn. It really does shift the energy in the room.This episode is full of ideas you can start using right away. No extra overwhelm. Just simple ways to make math more active, more interactive, and honestly… more fun.Because when students are moving and learning together… that’s when things really start to click. 💛TIMESTAMP:0:00 - Introduction and overview of the episode's focus on integrating movement in math.0:29 - Discussion of the article "Movement in Math" and its relevance.0:58 - Explanation of the research study and its methodology.1:27 - Details about the classroom activities and their objectives.2:25 - Examples of specific activities like snowball addition and bowling graph.3:24 - Importance of structured lessons and connecting activities to standards.4:19 - Positive outcomes from the study, including increased engagement.5:04 - Hilary's thoughts on the study and its implications for teaching.6:07 - Discussion on the benefits of movement-based learning.7:13 - Ideas for incorporating movement in teaching math.8:17 - Using number lines and other tools for teaching math concepts.9:26 - Creative activities like scooter boards and paper plate skating.11:18 - Fluency practice and its importance in learning.12:13 - Additional creative teaching ideas.13:32 - Encouragement to explore enrichment activities and resources.14:05 - Closing remarks. 🔗 Source Research Article:https://newprairiepress.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1394&context=networks📍 Find Hilary & Deedee:Hilary Statum → https://pencilstopigtails.com/Deedee Wills → https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

What if some of the most powerful tools for academic success are the ones we’re already using every single day?In this episode, we’re talking all about fine motor skills… and why they matter for so much more than handwriting. Yes, pencil grip is important. But it goes way beyond that. Fine motor development is closely connected to reading, math, number sense, and overall cognitive growth. Isn’t that amazing?We dig into what the research says and what it really means for our classrooms. Especially in preschool and kindergarten, where these foundational skills are just getting started.And then… we get practical. Because that’s the part we all need.We’re sharing simple, playful ways to build strength and coordination using materials you probably already have on hand. Think tongs, pipe cleaners, Play-Doh, beads, finger painting, even practicing zipping and buttoning. These are the kinds of activities that feel like play but are doing some serious work behind the scenes.We also talk about something that doesn’t always get enough attention. Students with motor challenges are at a higher risk for academic struggles. But here’s the hopeful part. Early support can make a HUGE difference. Small shifts now can completely change a child’s path later.You’ll walk away with easy ideas you can use right away. No extra prep. No added overwhelm.And if you’ve been feeling the pressure of increasing academic demands in early childhood… this episode is going to feel like a deep breath. A reminder that learning doesn’t have to be worksheets and sitting still.Hands-on experiences matter. Movement matters. Play matters.Because when we build those fine motor skills, we’re not just helping students hold a pencil. We’re building the foundation for reading, math, and long-term success.Small movements. Big impact. 💛 Source Article:https://www.continued.com/early-childhood-education/articles/benefits-fine-motor-skills-in-23879 Where can you find us?Hilary Statum: ⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

If you’ve ever felt like vocabulary instruction turns into worksheet after worksheet… you’re not alone. It can start to feel a little heavy. And honestly? Not all that effective.But here’s the good news. Vocabulary can be one of the easiest ways to boost comprehension… when we approach it differently.In this episode, we’re digging into why vocabulary matters so much. Especially in those early years. The research around kindergarten vocabulary and later reading success is pretty eye-opening. And it really makes you think about how we’re using our instructional time.We talk about what this looks like in real classrooms. How do we move beyond memorizing word lists and start building real understanding?You’ll hear ideas for both explicit and implicit vocabulary instruction. Simple ways to introduce words, revisit them, and actually help them stick. Whether you’re in early elementary or working with older students, these are the kinds of routines you can use right away.We also spend some time on tiered vocabulary. Because choosing the right words makes a big difference. When you focus on meaningful, high-impact words from your content, you’re not just filling up a word wall. You’re helping students make connections and understand what they’re reading on a deeper level.And the activities? So doable.Think acting out words. Keeping simple vocabulary notebooks. Using visuals so every learner can access meaning. Small shifts that make a big impact.If you love word work, you’ll especially enjoy the conversation around morphology. Prefixes. Suffixes. Greek and Latin roots. These give students tools to figure out new words on their own. And once that clicks… it’s a game changer.We also share some favorite classroom ideas like word mapping, picture sorts, and our “word wizard” system to keep things engaging and fun.And of course, we talk about how all of this supports multilingual learners and strengthens overall literacy development.This episode is full of practical ways to make vocabulary instruction feel lighter, more meaningful, and way more effective.Because when vocabulary grows… comprehension follows. Every time. 💛YOU CAN FOLLOW ALONG THE BOOK STUDY (AFFILIATE LINK):⁠Next STEPS in Literacy Instruction: Connecting Assessments to Effective Interventions Second Edition, New edition⁠Where can you find us?Hilary Statum: ⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

In this episode of From Research to Recess, we’re diving into Chapter 6 of Next Steps in Literacy Instruction… and we’re talking all about comprehension. Such a big topic. And honestly? One that can feel a little overwhelming.But here’s the thing. Comprehension isn’t something we “get to later.” It starts right from the very beginning.We chat about how comprehension develops and how it connects to everything else. Decoding. Vocabulary. Background knowledge. Listening. Even how students think about their own thinking. It all works together.And we share what this actually looks like in real classrooms.We talk about becoming “reading detectives.” Noticing where things break down for students and then using that information to guide small group instruction and read-alouds. Because comprehension isn’t a worksheet or a one-day lesson. It’s something we build over time. Every single day.We also dig into the difference between the process of reading and the product. That shift alone can change how you think about your instruction.You’ll hear simple, practical ways to support comprehension, like:• Making read-alouds interactive and meaningful• Building listening comprehension and background knowledge (especially in the early grades)• Using retelling, sentence frames, and partner talk to deepen understanding• Thinking about the text, the reader, and the task… and how they all fit together• Supporting students who may not have the same background knowledge or language experiences• Modeling thinking so students can see what good readers actually doWhether you’re in kindergarten, first grade, or beyond, this episode is such a good reminder of what really matters.Reading aloud. Asking thoughtful questions. Giving students time to talk and process.That’s where the magic happens. 💛YOU CAN FOLLOW ALONG THE BOOK STUDY (AFFILIATE LINK):⁠Next STEPS in Literacy Instruction: Connecting Assessments to Effective Interventions Second Edition, New edition⁠Where can you find us?Hilary Statum: ⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

Come join us for this episode of From Research to Recess as we dig into reading fluency… and why it is so much more than just reading fast.Fluency is really about smooth, confident, expressive reading. It’s that moment when a child isn’t stuck on every word and can actually enjoy the story. Yes. Even our kindergarten and early first grade friends can start building this!In this episode, we’re sharing real classroom moments, the kind that make you nod your head and think, “Yep… I’ve seen that too.” And of course, we’re talking about what actually helps.You’ll hear simple, doable ways to support fluency, like:• Grouping high-frequency words by spelling patterns• Using repeated reading in a way that feels meaningful• Pairing students together for extra support and confidenceAnd we sprinkle in some fun too. Whisper phones. Reader’s theater. Activities that get students excited to practice instead of avoiding it.We also chat about how to keep an eye on progress without it taking over your day. Plus, how decodable texts and even hands-on writing can play a role in building fluency. It all works together.Whether you’re in kindergarten, coaching teachers, or supporting students in small groups, this episode is full of ideas you can actually use right away.Because when fluency starts to click… everything else gets a little bit easier. Readers Theater Scripts Decodable Partner Plays Kindergarten 1st Grade BundleYOU CAN FOLLOW ALONG THE BOOK STUDY (AFFILIATE LINK):⁠Next STEPS in Literacy Instruction: Connecting Assessments to Effective Interventions Second Edition, New edition⁠Where can you find us?Hilary Statum: ⁠https://pencilstopigtails.com/⁠Deedee Wills: ⁠https://mrswillskindergarten.com/

Come join us for this episode of From Research to Recess as we dig into Chapter 4 of Next Steps in Literacy Instruction. This one is all about phonics… and there is a lot to unpack in the best way.We’re talking about the pieces that really matter for building strong readers. Encoding. Decoding. Word recognition. All those parts that come together to help our students feel confident when they see a word on the page.And of course, we keep it practical.We share simple ways to check in on letter naming fluency and why automaticity makes such a difference for our early learners. You’ll hear about easy, engaging activities like alphabet arcs, match-it games, and even a little bingo fun. Because yes… phonics practice can feel playful and meaningful at the same time!We also walk through the phases of word recognition development so you can better understand where your students are and what they need next. It’s one of those things that helps everything click into place.And if you’ve ever wondered how to keep track of progress without feeling overwhelmed, we talk about that too. Tools like ESGI, norm-referenced assessments, and what to actually do with that information once you have it.We also spend some time on those students who need a little extra support. What small shifts can make a big difference? How do we approach uppercase and lowercase letters? And where does morphological awareness fit into all of this?This episode is full of ideas you can take straight into your classroom. No complicated setup. Just thoughtful, research-based practices that help your students grow.Your phonics block is about to feel a whole lot more doable. 💛FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON (AFFILIATE LINK):⁠NEXT STEPS IN LITERACY INSTRUCTION⁠FOLLOW US ON:⁠Hilary Statum - Pencils to Pigtails⁠⁠Deedee Wills - Mrs. Wills Kindergarten⁠GRAB YOUR 2 MONTH FREE TRIAL ON ESGI (NO CREDIT CARD REQUIRED):⁠Use Code: RECESS⁠

Phoneme awareness is one of those topics that can feel a little tricky… but it is so important for early readers.In this episode of From Research to Recess, we’re diving into phoneme awareness using Next Steps in Literacy Instruction as our guide. We’re breaking it all down in a way that feels manageable and actually doable in your classroom.We start by clearing up a common point of confusion. What’s the difference between phonological sensitivity and phoneme awareness? Once you see it, it just clicks. And it makes planning so much easier.Then we move into the part we all want… what does this look like with real students?We share simple, engaging activities you can use right away to strengthen your students’ reading skills. The kind that don’t take a ton of prep but still make a BIG impact. We also talk about how to support a wide range of learners, including older students who need a little extra support and multilingual learners who benefit from intentional instruction at the sound level.You’ll also hear how phoneme-level instruction fits into your larger literacy block, plus how tools like DIBELS can help you keep an eye on progress without feeling overwhelmed.This episode is packed with practical ideas, little shifts you can make tomorrow, and those helpful reminders that bring everything back into focus.If you’re teaching PreK–2 or supporting students who need a stronger foundation, this one is going to feel really helpful. 💛FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON (AFFILIATE LINK):⁠NEXT STEPS IN LITERACY INSTRUCTION⁠FOLLOW US ON:⁠Hilary Statum – Pencils to Pigtails⁠⁠Deedee Wills – Mrs. Wills Kindergarten⁠GRAB YOUR 2 MONTH FREE TRIAL ON ESGI (NO CREDIT CARD REQUIRED):⁠Use Code: RECESS⁠

In this kickoff episode of our book study series, we’re diving into the introduction of Next Steps in Literacy Instruction. I know… the introduction. It’s the part we’re all tempted to skip, right? But stay with us on this one. It is FULL of those “Oh wow… I needed that reminder” moments.We walk through the different types of assessments and what they actually mean for your classroom. Not just the names, but how to use them in a way that makes your teaching easier, not more overwhelming. We’re talking about:• Universal screeners• Diagnostic assessments• Progress monitoringAnd how all of that data can really guide your instruction in a meaningful way.We also break down MTSS in a way that just makes sense. Tier 1. Tier 2. Tier 3. What does strong core instruction actually look like? And how do we support students without feeling like we’re juggling a million things at once?If you’ve ever felt buried under assessment data or unsure how to make small groups truly work… you are not alone. We share practical ideas for differentiation, plus ways to support multilingual learners right alongside your core instruction.Oh! And we chat about some helpful tools like DIBELS and ESGI, along with a little bonus for listeners.This episode is one of those that grounds you. It brings you back to what really matters in literacy instruction and gives you simple, doable ways to move forward with confidence.Your next step starts here. 💛FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON (AFFILIATE LINK):NEXT STEPS IN LITERACY INSTRUCTIONFOLLOW US ON:Hilary Statum - Pencils to PigtailsDeedee Wills - Mrs. Wills KindergartenGRAB YOUR 2 MONTH FREE TRIAL ON ESGI (NO CREDIT CARD REQUIRED):Use Code: RECESSKeywords: Literacy instruction, Next Steps in Literacy, teaching assessments, reading strategies, MTSS, Tiered support, DIBELS, ESGI, Deedee Wills, Hilary Statum, book study, elementary teaching, small group instruction, multilingual learners, evidence-based teaching

Welcome to the very first episode of From Research to Recess! 🎉 We are so excited you’re here.In this kickoff episode, we’re sharing a little bit about why we started this podcast… and what you can expect each week when you hit play. Because honestly? We kept coming back to the same idea again and again. There is SO much great research out there, but it doesn’t always feel easy to bring it into your classroom in a real, doable way.That’s where this podcast comes in.Between the two of us, we’ve spent years in the classroom, coaching teachers, and sharing ideas on our blogs. We’ve tried things that worked beautifully… and a few that didn’t. And that’s exactly what we want to bring to you. Real talk about what actually works with K–3 students, and how to keep your instruction grounded in research while still making learning engaging and fun.We’ll also give you a little peek into our own journeys. The experiences that shaped how we teach and why we’re so passionate about this work.And… we’re starting things off with a book study! We’re diving into Next Steps in Literacy Instruction, and we would love for you to read along with us. It’s going to be one of those resources you keep coming back to.Have something you’re curious about? A topic you’d love for us to unpack? Send it our way. We’re building this space with you in mind.Whether you’re in kindergarten, first, second, or third grade… or you just love talking about teaching and learning… you’re in the right place. 💛YOU CAN FOLLOW ALONG THE BOOK STUDY (AFFILIATE LINK):Next STEPS in Literacy Instruction: Connecting Assessments to Effective Interventions Second Edition, New editionWhere can you find us?Hilary Statum: https://pencilstopigtails.com/Deedee Wills: https://mrswillskindergarten.com/