I listen to music. Talk to the kids. Go with the flow. Take them out. Like do whatever. Let them draw. Subbing is the best job. I don’t do middle school though. I even love special needs. Some need attention. I give it to them.
Curious if you feel pressured to complete the teacher's plans. I have many Xtra activities that would draw kids in, but often the day is packed with "have-to-do's" that even I find tricky to make fun or engaging. I'd love to let them draw even 10 min, but often I'm finding myself struggling to get the plans done. I'd love to hear your take. Any ideas are welcome!
I watched your video hoping for some tips to use in MIDDLE SCHOOL. I don't go to grade schools. My tips for middle school subs is 1. bring a coaches whistle for EMERGENCY situations such as kids standing on their desk. 2. Get a small megaphone. Harbor freight sells a little one for about 18 dollars. I only use it if the kids get TOO LOUD and I don't want to scream at them. I just talk normally and calmly into the megaphone and everyone hears me say, "Please quiet down class." and they usually do. 3. ROLL CAll don't call out the kids name and hope for someone to say, "HERE!" Instead, walk up to each student individually and ask their LAST name! This way... you will discover kids who snuck into your class because they know they can trick the sub. When you ask a what's your LAST NAME, they will not usually give you a name that is on your list! Throw out the sneak-in-students because they WILL cause trouble for you. 4. Before the first class arrives, look around the room for things kids will use as TOYS or "weapons". A couple yardsticks WILL BE USED by the kids for a pretend sword fight. A ROLL-AROUND CHAIR will be used by kids to push each other across the room for a FUN RIDE. Get that wheeled chair away from students access. Collect all the dry erase markers from the white board to stop kids from drawing things there. Hand wash solution moved to a drawer in your desk UNLESS THEY ASK FOR IT. It is used to put in their hand and SLAP into the face of other students. Etc etc get all those weapons and toys out of students access BEFORE class starts. I have subbed for 7 years, and have been at some very misbehaved schools. Never let the kids get you EMOTIONAL. Always pretend to be calm. If the kids think they can UPSET YOU.... they will pour it on more. Never let kids BEHIND YOU at your desk. Ask them to move away. Never allow any student to sit at teachers desk while you are walking around the room! Don't let kids GANG UP all around your desk asking you for 10 different things. Ask them politely to "Please go to your seats & raise your hand if you want something." Deal with them ONE AT A TIME.. not 6 at once at your desk! Don't let kids "shout out" questions to you while you are instructing. They do that on purpose to STOP your instructions so they don't have to do any work! I could write a LOT MORE, but that's enough to help out those who are subbing MIDDLE SCHOOL. The grade school kids are a different set of problems.
When Subbing 1. 2:45 Use a timer mechanism for transitions....show the students, and tell them you better be done. Use a whistle also...if the school permits. - If kids are wasting your time, use the phone to show them that you are wasting their time. - Claim you will talk to the teacher or parents or principal at the end of the day about misbehaving students. 2. 4:15 Leave notes to teacher about good students, bad students, who did what. Let the students know you are making notes also. Leave your phone number and a note to the classroom teacher 3. 5:30 Have a folder in case no Lesson Plan Left for you. - Folder contains Silent reading. Let students read a book in their Library. If get through lesson fast also....silent reading is useful - Read aloud, especially youngsters. Either bring them to carpet or read in front of the class. - Writing prompts 2nd grade and above. - If you can have any super powers....and ask them to share in front the class. - 1st grade, youtube Just Dance or gonoodle and have kids do exercises. Simon says. - Any grade, blank bingo sheet; 20 to 30 copies; - 9 out of 10 times every class has individual whiteboards. Have students use them to spell words and do math. 4. If eventually going to be a teacher, get to know administration and staff. Make those connections. Best way to get a job. Talk to principal about behavior problems. Show you care. 5. 12:20 Leave the room clean so the teacher will appreciate it the next day. 6. Breathe..it's scary and overwhelming. Not easy. Okay to fail...and okay if you don't get through all the material. If lessons blows up, that is fine...just breathe.
@@malake4980 I do it for a number of reasons. I do it for myself, so I may remember in the future and also, make notes. It's a good way to reference things in the future also. I also copy what I wrote, copy the url and make an image of the video and paste it all into a word document. It;s how and why I leave the notes above. It's my technique and I am glad you find it useful. Sometimes I may interpret what is being said differently than you. Good luck.
I absolutely vouch for using a timer when waiting for their attention. In the morning I tell them, "whatever number this timer gets to, that's how long we're staying after school today." Then after lunch I say, "I'll be nice...if, at the end of the day, the timer is still less than one minute, I'll round it down to zero." In the one month that I've been subbing, I've never had it pass one minute.
As a new sub, I found that subbing in an elementary school is so much work. I worked my butt off trying to follow the lesson plans while managing misbehavior in the classroom. I was also asked to do yard duty, help supervise in the cafeteria, and supervise the front of the school after school was over. I barely had time to pee and even lost my appetize because I was so busy. The pay wasn't even worth it for me.
I pay attention to how students treat me, but I'm also aware of how adults treat me. If they don't treat me right, then I'm not coming back to that school.
I'm a 9th grader writing a book and in it is a stariotypical substitute who gets bullied by the class. I happend to stumble upon this video looking for pranks that the children of my fictional classroom could pull the sub, but instead I found someone giving advice to subs who have to deal with kids like my fictional ones. I thought it would be interesting to put my self in the shoes of a miserable teacher and see how it goes. To anyone who cared enough to read my comment, hi and thanks for reading. Goodbye.
I am from Asia. Our countries produce some of the smartest mathematicians in the world. The kids those who are not smart or average are also amazing in most parts of the country. Especially those who are less privileged are so thankful as they know teachers play a major role in their lives. There are so many teachers who sacrifice their own meal to feed the hungry children in the class here. I can’t believe how mean some students from certain developed countries could be to teachers who come to help the school system. It is not a joke to intentionally plan to give teachers a hard time.
For cleaning up the class at the end of the day, maybe take a photo of what it looks like in the morning before the kids file in. Thanks! This is great.
Please please pleeeaaaasse make a video to help out those who are student teaching and will be in their own classroom in the next year or two! Maybe a “what I wish I knew” video or “tips for first year teachers at the beginning of the year” or something like that!
I am so nervous, but I keep telling myself "I can do hard things" and "I am capable of doing anything God puts in my path". I was a preschool teacher but am becoming a sub to get experience in an elementary school before student teaching in the future. This video really helped me out a lot. Thank you for your channel
But God did not put it in your path. We live in a very fallen world "where time and chance happen to us all". These things are caused by evil in the world. Do you actually believe that God causes these evil things to happen? I was assaulted five times in the classroom. Did God do that? Certainly not.
Leah you can do hard things and whatever the Lord has placed in your path is meant to make you a better and stronger child of His. God Bless You and Keep On Going! You got this! ✝️❤
One of the 1st thing I learned during my first week of Subbing...introduce yourself to the other Teachers in the grade that your are covering!!! For Subs that are not provided a Sub Plan, those other teachers are your parachute for the day! Do not be afraid to reach out to them, they are extremely helpful! Ask them what they have planned for the day, and would it be possible for you to have a copy of their lesson...chances are, they are covering the same content or topic! Don't panic, the students can smell fear! 🤣
I agree! I just recently subbed a kinder class that had no sub plans. Luckily, I went and talked to the other kinder teachers and they came in with binders of worksheets, books, and even a copy of their lesson plans. They were super helpful
This is the only video of its kind out of dozens on UA-cam that I've related to. You started out by stating your experience, had an excellent outline, and you spoke well and didn't deliberate. Great video, thank you for making it, I feel more prepared.
I'm subbing for the first time this week at the local school. I'm excited and nervous. I know that the classroom management will be the most challenging part of the day. Thanks for the tips!!
Hello! I hope you had a successful first day. I'm up for an interview to become a sub, I have no experience but I love kids and really value education. I was wondering if you could maybe detail the type of questions you were asked and how you responded to them? I really have no clue what to expect! Thanks a bunch!
It's been two years since you posted this; I'm looking at potentially becoming a substitute teacher, but have zero class room experience, and my A.A.S. is not educational at all. This video is internet gold, and has helped me so so much. Funny enough, it actually made me more excited to give it a try.
I'm 19 and studying to be a teacher! I just got hired as a substitute teacher for the school district. Being only 19 I'm excited but also terrified so this helps so much! Thank you!!
@@monique7885 Pretty well! I personally found a love for all grades, but some classes can be a little overwhelming. Just act confident and don't show that you are nervous. Good luck!
@@simplyshaye777 some things just get better as you get experience. If you get hired on as a substitute it's best to take every possible opening you can so you gain more experience
March 24, 2022: awesome video! The cell phone tip works to perfection. I recently retired from juvenile probation after working for 20 years. 18 of the 20 years, I work intensive probation with the juveniles which need more strict and structured supervision. Recently, I started subbing and tried the cell phone tip with class and it worked very good. Thanks
Subs are very much appreciated! I recently retired from teaching and started subbing almost right away (believe it or not). It's good to be in a classroom without having the multitude of responsibilities that a teacher of record has. And, I know that the teacher who is out and other teachers really appreciate my presence. Instead of all of the frustration I had in the classroom, it has mostly been very positive and enjoyable!
Kinda got choked up at the end when you said that substitute teachers are appreciated. As a sub who had a rough day today in the classroom, I needed to hear it.
I came across your video hoping to find some helpful tips. Today was my first day as a substitute in a kinder classroom. I could not get the students to listen to me one bit and it was VERY overwhelming. Luckily I was able to finish through the lesson plan but WOW what a day. I love all your tips and now that I think about it I could have gone more in to detail with the note I left the teacher. I'm trying not to be so hard on myself especially since this is my first time but I feel like such a failure when it comes to behavior management.
THAT'S NORMAL!!! You will become more comfortable and it will get easier. Kinder is TOUGH especially if you don't have any classroom experience! Hang in there :)
Yes. And I don’t mind cleaning the teachers desk, but when you ask the kids over and over again to clean up their space and they outright refuse to do it, then it’s just not going to get done. I am not going to go back after each one of them and pick up after them when I have been asking them to do that all day. That is something that I feel should be left for the full-time teacher to see how they did so she can ask them why they left their mess the next day.
Divide and conquer. That's what you learn as a Sub. The time is limited, and I believe your first responsibilty is making sure that the lessons left by the original teacher are followed and completed. The rest is children skills, and that's easier said then done. Keep a sense of humor, and instill order Also use the kids who are reasonably responsible because,chances are, they know the routine. Remember that they're basically good kids. If you believe otherwise, don't bother doing this. An idle kid gets into mischief, bring along some extra work to keep them occupied. Get good relations with other Teacher's at an assignment
I watched this vid right before my first day in a classroom. It's been a couple weeks now and I just did my second day. This was super helpful the 1st time and reassuring the 2nd time. It was terrifying, but I gritted my teeth and did it and it ended up not being all that bad. Stressful for sure, but that will wain with time of course. Thank you so much for helping ease my entry into the world of subbing. As hard as it is right now, it's so rewarding..
Love these tips! The timer! Emergency folder! Note for teacher with specifics. Read aloud. Writing prompts. Go Noodle, just dance, blank bingo sheets, get to know admins and staff and principals, tidy up at end of day.
This is an awesome video! I'm beginning to supply teach at my children's elementary school this year, and even though I'm excited I'm also COMPLETELY FREAKING OUT. Haha. Your video helped calm me down. Thanks a bunch! Also, as a side note, thank you for showing the fearful side of subbing. I feel like a lot of videos kind of gloss over just how SCARY subbing can be! Kudos for your honesty!
You are so funny, but I love the way you keep things blunt as well. I have transitioned from the corporate world to subbing. My first assignment this morning is PE at a middle school. Hope I do well! Love your vids! Great and helpful info.🌸
I finished my 1st year in teaching last year. This year, I've decided that being a substitute teacher is my job. I'm subbing special education classes. I mostly support teacher aides and open and close the activities.
I just got my license to sub, nearing 40 and I decided to sub for a bit before taking the bigger life changing plunge of becoming a teacher. I've been watching and reading everything I could to prepare myself, still feel like I'm continuously under prepared. I haven't had my first day/class yet, but I know that day will come. Thank you for this video, it's one of the more helpful ones I've found so far.
These are amazing tips you shared. I'm about to start my second year of substitute teaching and I learned the hard way about not having a sub bag or folder. I had to substitute for the music teacher one day and I have no musical talent whatsoever! The program the teacher left me required codes and a password, which I didn't have. The first class of the day was just me attempting to sing as they played instruments. I was doing horribly at the song and forgetting the words so I yelled "PLAY LOUDER!" and we eventually got through it. LOL! I will never be caught off guard like that again!
I'm glad for your last minute of this video. I just did my first week casual teaching and found myself spending a significant amount of time on behavioural management (I did similar strategies that you mentioned). Classroom management is a big part of our day as a casual. It is often hard to get all the work done.
I start subbing tomorrow, and even though I've volunteered and done the after school program for 8 years now I am petrified! I think I have watched this 4-5 times (it's also how I found you like a year ago!). Thank you for this!
Thank you for the simple, but important tips! I particularly liked your “raise your phone ” technique. I’ll be starting in July after 20 years of military service.
I have been a sub for 5 years now and I do everything you have mentioned in this video. I am very anal about leaving a classroom in a much cleaner state than I found it in. I have spent as much as 20 minutes after school making sure the classroom is virtually spotless. I really enjoyed your video today because you are one of the few classroom teachers that I have encountered that shows an appreciation for subs. In most teacher vlogs I watch it seems like those classroom teachers are determined to be as negative as possible about subs. I had a temporary teaching position last school year right after graduation, so I got to experience preparing for a sub and it was extra work, but I was just so grateful that I had a person willing to come work with my kiddos while I had to be gone. Do you feel that your experience as a sub has influenced how you view subs now that you are a classroom teacher?
I mean yes and no. Subbing is hard, so if anything it just makes me more empathetic and encourages me to plan as much as possible for them so they never have to get stuck in these situations.
Such a wonderful and practical presentation! Thank you! My teaching has always been undergrad... my foray into K-12 starts next week! Exciting for sure, and less terrifying now that I have your guidance. Again, thank you.
thank you thank you thank you!!! I just finished student teaching, and I am for some reason TERRIFIED of beginning subbing. This made me slightly less terrified.
I’m the girl that “taught” my imaginary friends and stuffed animals and “graded papers” that didn’t exist. Watching your videos makes me want to become a teacher. I’m 22, graduated college with a degree in the medical field, and your videos give me a hope I didn’t have to one day become a teacher! Thanks for uploading, thanks for your effort. It makes a difference in my life if it doesn’t for anyone else! #ibingewatchedyourvids
Sarah Faircloth thanks so much! I didn’t think I could be a teacher since I didn’t study education and then one day I was like I’m doing this!! Good for you! It’s the ward rewarding job there is ☺️
oh my gosh same I just graduated as a COTA but here I am looking into teaching again. I taught my stuffed animals every day after school whatever I learned that day ☺
Lovely video.. I’m a qualified teacher and after a 5 year long break from teaching have re-registered and and just started casual relief teaching (substitute teaching). In Australia you have to be a qualified teacher to be a substitute teacher. It’s been really nerve-wracking even as a qualified and somewhat experienced teacher. You don’t know the school and are trying to make a really good impression, I feel constantly on edge! I couldn’t even imagine doing substitute teaching with no teaching experience - wow! Videos like this really help! Thank you ❤️
Thank you! I just had my first subbing experience and it went horribly! There were no sub plans, 25+ kids and a new student. The kids were out of control, violent with one another, and extremely disrespectful towards me. I was in tears during the lunch period. Fingers crossed my next experience will go better. Thanks for sharing!
In my experiences as a sub, I've learned that if you sternly tell them that you will immediately send them to the principal's office, they'll calm down at once, because they know you're not playing games and that it's business as usual. I had to do that last week for a half day job as children were openly mocking me. Oh how that changes once you give them a final warning. Sending a wayward kid or two to the office will make your day a hell of a lot better. In short, the lesson that I've learned is to ALWAYS assert your power as a sub teacher at the beginning of the class if you want respect. YOU are the teacher and the ADULT in the room, not them, and they must respect you. And if that doesn't work, you understand that you don't have to return to that classroom.
I just finished my first week of middle school subbing and I'm not going back. I had to call security twice on this kid who said the purpose of black history month is "for us to get revenge on the white people." He strangled this kid with his own hoodie and then came back after they released him to harass my class again. He wasn't even in my class the second time.
I’m watching this after dropping my summer courses for my teaching credential (6 courses, 20 units total) and delaying my student teaching and graduation plans one more year, so I’ll be substitute teaching for another entire school year and the first half of the next school year.
Oh wow! Thank you so much! I was just hired a substitute teacher, and haven't subbed in a classroom yet. Hoping to start in a couple of weeks. This video was SO HELPFUL and I do feel a tad more prepared! Thank you!!
Thank you for this video. I have to take up subbing on top of another job, and i have no experience with it. I'm looking for subbing tips everywhere. The timer tip is good. Especially in elementary where most kids prize recess. And it avoids some behavioral pushback. I'll try it in January
Omg. You are so specific, resourceful and helpful! You’re tone is super supportive and calm. I hope you make more videos!! This is one of my fav vids on yt with teacher tips! Thank you!!!
I am subbing in for the first time tomorrow in a kindergarten class and I SO appreciate all of the tips you gave. I am feeling much better about walking into that classroom in the morning. Thank you!
thank you so much for posting this. I’m just getting into substituting and have zero experience in the classroom so I’m feeling very nervous as I prepare for my first day!!!!!
I'm so grateful for this video because I 'am planning to be a substitute teacher before I can be a full time teacher because right now, I am currently studying for my praxis. Wish me luck!
I say if you have time and depending on how the class behaves, then clean up if you can. But subs do so much as it is they shouldn't be expected to fix what your students created. It's like babysitting if I have extra time I'll help clean your house, but if your child is a lot, it probably can't get done. I have so mant sub colleagues that have told me teachers treated them worse than the kids they're not personal assistant or cleaners that's the janitors job.
rewatching this to get ideas for when I supply in grade 6/7/8 classes. The classroom management techniques need to be totally different from K-5! I always set expectations etc, but with older students it tends to crumble by the afternoon. I will be trying out the phone timer to hold them accountable!!
Today I had a terrible subbing day for a kindergarten classroom.. no notes, no charts, nor assignments. It was definitely a tough day and surrounding teachers were not much help.. only a couple which I appreciate! Your video made me feel so much better, thank you! Love the tips!! I’ll definitely feel more confident in the next class I sub in.
Thank you for the simple, but important tips! I particularly liked your “raise your phone 📱” technique. I’ll be starting in July after 20 years of military service.
I’ve never subbed before and I just got hired as one, I’m very excited but super nervous too. It’s something I’ve always wanted to try and luckily the local schools are pretty desperate for subs so they are giving me a chance lol. Thank you for this video, it’s really gonna help me 😊
I’ve been a substitute teacher for 8 years. I was beginning to wonder why I never seen this video, but actually, I think I might have. Also, kids don’t really do silent reading anymore. You can tell this video has already aged out. I also rarely have had access to the teacher computer. It’s been insane. I guess I have just gotten by, by the grace of God!
Lol I love your behavior management tips!! I have been subbing a few years and currently in the process of getting my credential. When I first started subbing I swear they threw me to the sharks because i had no guidance whatsoever. I had to just learn as I went which was hard anyways I ended up on your channel because I am always looking for tips and ideas for teaching. Thanks for taking the time to share your tips.
I am a substitute teacher from Texas. So glad I re-watched for fresh reminder. My last subbing wasnt quite well as expected. I had difficulty with elementary kids. I think I was a bit too lenient on the misbehaved kids also. I was firm with the misbehaved but instead of yelling I try to be firm. My 8th day subbing and my last school was concerned and wants to discuss next week. Happy/relieved for your big pointers. I wanted to sub b/c I am a trying to improve my tutor skills.
Thank you so much for the tips! Subbing for 3rd grade tomorrow! My son's class nonetheless. 🤦 Thankfully I know many of the students. Still nervous though! Wish me luck!
Ooou, I just did a video on substitute teaching as well. I think it’s super important to make videos talking about this. I subbed for a bit as well. It really does help build those tips and tricks that you can use in your classroom.
While I've been organizing and straightening up before I leave for the day I was under the impression there is cleaning staff that will do the floor and trash. In my experience (in elementary) there are often "paper shredder" mess makers. While I have the students clean up after themselves routinely, there is inevitably someone who has made the kind of mess that requires a vacuum or some other cleaning tool. Now I am very conflicted about how to handle that. Guess I have my own home work cut out for me ;) Thank you for saying you appreciate us and doing this video. It's helpful... where I am subbing the appreciation and support seems to be in the "less than" category. In fact I have left a couple of schools where I was definitely looked down apon simply by being a sub. Naturally those are the schools where I will not be returning :( Very helpful video.
I was hired out of college and never was a substitute but I can imagine how hard it must be. My school has a sub shortage and so often teachers are asked to cover classes to help out, and even that is so stressful! I love what you said about getting the room cleaned up-- YES! When I come in after being out and the room is organized and clean it makes me SO happy and relieved!! Great video :)
The folder idea is something I learned too along the way. Many situations where there was no plan or just not enough to fill the day. I always had 3 folders in my bag - one for each age group, because you never know if you will be asked to cover a different class than the assignment you were going in for. Usually I had some general language/grammar activities, and always math colour by sheets or math mystery pictures. They take a good amount of time for the kids to get done and they enjoy it. Keep it general like addition/subtraction, multiplication/division, or graphing coordinates for the older kids. I also always had a general picture bingo game (bc you don't need to have any skill to play it) and some prizes like erasers, pencils, or lollipops. As a full-time teacher now though, I do always try to leave a set of colour by or mystery pictures on my desk ready to go, or some reading comprehension activities. Having a class set already copied and siting on your desk at all times or having a file or folder with emergency activities is just common sense for a full-time teacher bc you just never know when you will need to be away, and why put that stress on a sub coming into your room? One school I worked for actually required 2 full days of sub plans and copies that were to be kept in the office for emergency purposes. Thank you to all the amazing subs out there!
Awesome tips! Thank you! Please spell out your discipline plan for the sub too. I have subbed in classes with no discipline plan at all! This is more important than a lesson plan in my opinion.
Your first 3 words did not help me feel any better about this new adventure I'm putting myself through! I'm an archaeologist and with the past 2 years of being secluded in this Covid world, bored spitless, I figured substitute teaching would be a great winter occupation, as I work during the warmer months in the Wyoming and surrounding states. I HAVE NO IDEA what I'm doing. I sat in on classes in college when the prof needed to be gone, but it was only directing discussions about our assignments. The school district told us to make up this sub trick package? I had no idea what would work. I have many great tales that I can bring up for say 10-15 minutes of fill time for older students. Your video has given me some peace of mind. Your idea about the stop watch phone is great - will have to ask if that is acceptable here in our district! I am going to order, or try to find, a bingo box for all age groups, animals for younger children and have them take turns "pulling pictures out of a hat"! I feel a little less, not entirely by any means, FREAKED out with your great suggestions. I hope being a mom, grandmother, and great grandmother who adores young folks will help! Thanks, again!
I have background of education and I have little different perspective than yours about substitute teacher. You nailed it the first point, it is chaos, you can't reason with children, UNLESS you behave like their parents.
"Ahhh" ... Breathing, simply because my first day is approaching. These tips really help so much! I packed a bag with a checklist and extra activities just in case! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! 🙌
Oh my goodness...so gonna try the phone timer thing. My kids are totally gorgeous, but they will. not. be. quiet. Boys. It's always the boys! I had a year off from this last year, but we're back at it again with the talking all the time. When I was doing CRT (casual relief teaching) work I would always start the morning with "I know how you guys treat CRT's. I've seen it and my own kids tell me about it, and you're not gonna treat me like that. You're going to behave as you would for your regular teacher and I am going to be able to tell him/her how wonderful you are." I did a lot of CRT work in the school where I did my final year professional experience, so half the kids in the room already knew me enough to know how I operate. But that phone thing - so good!
Yeah but what about middle school kids? We are subs I don’t think I have that authority to make a student in middle who rotates classes to stay whatever minutes with me before lunch etc. How would we go by that?
I started subbing 7 months ago and liked it so much that I’m getting my credential. Something I try to do (I sub for high school) is make sure that all the work for each period is on a folder or binder clip and labeled with a post it note so the teacher doesn’t have to try to figure out which kids are in which pile. I never thought about leaving my number for the teachers since the assignments are all online, that’s a good idea.
Thank you for making this video! I just graduated in May and started subbing last month. Your tips for a backup activity folder were very helpful, and I'm going to put something together like that soon! Subbing has been challenging for me so far, but I've had some amazing students so far that make it all worth it. Thanks again!
I wish I had seen this video when I began subbing. I've been subbing for 2 years now (elementary only) and while I would say most days go as smoothly as they possibly can, some days (like today) are pretty rough. At the end of the day today, I felt like crying. I had a sixth grade class that was so disrespectful and would not listen. Nothing I did seemed to work. I always set my expectations before any new lesson, but the students today completely ignored them. I had to call admin because they were getting so much out of hand and boy did the class get an ear full from the principal. I had never heard the phone/timer thing before so I'm going to start using that. Most schools I sub there's p.e at the end of the day so when I use it I can tell students it's going to keep track of how much p.e time they owe me. Thank you for your tips!
Thanks for putting this information out there. I'm going to be subbing this fall, and although I have worked as a special ed para for 7 years, I've never been in charge of a big classroom. It is a little bit terrifying, but I'm sure these tips will help me be successful!
Great, super helpful vid for me. Done my first 6 days of subbing and my gawd it is tough!!! I will keep trying. Thanks for this resource!! From Australia.
Thanks for the video. I have hesitated to be a substitute in the past year because I lacked classroom experience. I'm in the first part of my practicum and have learned a lot about classroom management from my cooperating teachers. I am honestly more nervous to substitute the k-5 grades, because I'm getting certified in middle school.. I just picture chaos 😂
My 7th grade homeroom had 7 kids in it. Yup 7! We were all apart of a much bigger Texas History class which is what our homeroom teacher taught. We always got the best reviews from all of our substitutes lol!
Thank you. I’ve been eligible to substitute teach for 15 years but finally worked up the nerve to do so. I have two educators in my family (Principal and Special Ed) and they’ve been giving the side-eye all these years. I’ll be dipping my toe once my 30-day permit is approved. I’ll also be back for your nuggets of wisdom.
I listen to music. Talk to the kids. Go with the flow. Take them out. Like do whatever. Let them draw. Subbing is the best job. I don’t do middle school though. I even love special needs. Some need attention. I give it to them.
Starting to sub this school year, No experience but I know there's a need. Wish me luck but thanks for this video 😊
Curious if you feel pressured to complete the teacher's plans. I have many Xtra activities that would draw kids in, but often the day is packed with "have-to-do's" that even I find tricky to make fun or engaging. I'd love to let them draw even 10 min, but often I'm finding myself struggling to get the plans done. I'd love to hear your take. Any ideas are welcome!
@@BLovesHummingbirds I'm wondering the same
I start subbing tomorrow and have no experience at all. I’m still freaking out. Thanks for the video
Same but I’m excited
How did it go?
@@MrNicMachiavelli She didn't respond back, I think the students ate her alive .
I watched your video hoping for some tips to use in MIDDLE SCHOOL. I don't go to grade schools. My tips for middle school subs is 1. bring a coaches whistle for EMERGENCY situations such as kids standing on their desk. 2. Get a small megaphone. Harbor freight sells a little one for about 18 dollars. I only use it if the kids get TOO LOUD and I don't want to scream at them. I just talk normally and calmly into the megaphone and everyone hears me say, "Please quiet down class." and they usually do. 3. ROLL CAll don't call out the kids name and hope for someone to say, "HERE!" Instead, walk up to each student individually and ask their LAST name! This way... you will discover kids who snuck into your class because they know they can trick the sub. When you ask a what's your LAST NAME, they will not usually give you a name that is on your list! Throw out the sneak-in-students because they WILL cause trouble for you. 4. Before the first class arrives, look around the room for things kids will use as TOYS or "weapons". A couple yardsticks WILL BE USED by the kids for a pretend sword fight. A ROLL-AROUND CHAIR will be used by kids to push each other across the room for a FUN RIDE. Get that wheeled chair away from students access. Collect all the dry erase markers from the white board to stop kids from drawing things there. Hand wash solution moved to a drawer in your desk UNLESS THEY ASK FOR IT. It is used to put in their hand and SLAP into the face of other students. Etc etc get all those weapons and toys out of students access BEFORE class starts. I have subbed for 7 years, and have been at some very misbehaved schools. Never let the kids get you EMOTIONAL. Always pretend to be calm. If the kids think they can UPSET YOU.... they will pour it on more. Never let kids BEHIND YOU at your desk. Ask them to move away. Never allow any student to sit at teachers desk while you are walking around the room! Don't let kids GANG UP all around your desk asking you for 10 different things. Ask them politely to "Please go to your seats & raise your hand if you want something." Deal with them ONE AT A TIME.. not 6 at once at your desk! Don't let kids "shout out" questions to you while you are instructing. They do that on purpose to STOP your instructions so they don't have to do any work! I could write a LOT MORE, but that's enough to help out those who are subbing MIDDLE SCHOOL. The grade school kids are a different set of problems.
Great advice thx! I have only done elementary so far but will be branching out to middle and high to see if I like it there
When Subbing
1. 2:45 Use a timer mechanism for transitions....show the students, and tell them you better be done. Use a whistle also...if the school permits.
- If kids are wasting your time, use the phone to show them that you are wasting their time.
- Claim you will talk to the teacher or parents or principal at the end of the day about misbehaving students.
2. 4:15 Leave notes to teacher about good students, bad students, who did what. Let the students know you are making notes also. Leave your phone number and a note to the classroom teacher
3. 5:30 Have a folder in case no Lesson Plan Left for you.
- Folder contains Silent reading. Let students read a book in their Library. If get through lesson fast also....silent reading is useful
- Read aloud, especially youngsters. Either bring them to carpet or read in front of the class.
- Writing prompts 2nd grade and above.
- If you can have any super powers....and ask them to share in front the class.
- 1st grade, youtube Just Dance or gonoodle and have kids do exercises.
Simon says.
- Any grade, blank bingo sheet; 20 to 30 copies;
- 9 out of 10 times every class has individual whiteboards. Have students use them to spell words and do math.
4. If eventually going to be a teacher, get to know administration and staff. Make those connections. Best way to get a job. Talk to principal about behavior problems. Show you care.
5. 12:20 Leave the room clean so the teacher will appreciate it the next day.
6. Breathe..it's scary and overwhelming. Not easy. Okay to fail...and okay if you don't get through all the material. If lessons blows up, that is fine...just breathe.
Mark M I just paused the video and read this thanks
@@malake4980 I do it for a number of reasons. I do it for myself, so I may remember in the future and also, make notes.
It's a good way to reference things in the future also.
I also copy what I wrote, copy the url and make an image of the video and paste it all into a word document. It;s how and why I leave the notes above. It's my technique and I am glad you find it useful.
Sometimes I may interpret what is being said differently than you. Good luck.
My elementary school goes on till 3:30 pm. So the idea of relaxing at noon doesn't happen! Often the afternoon is the hard part.
MVP! thanks for typing this up!
Thanks for listing Mark
I absolutely vouch for using a timer when waiting for their attention. In the morning I tell them, "whatever number this timer gets to, that's how long we're staying after school today." Then after lunch I say, "I'll be nice...if, at the end of the day, the timer is still less than one minute, I'll round it down to zero." In the one month that I've been subbing, I've never had it pass one minute.
I will start using the timer thing! I feel it will be very helpful for them and for me! Peace!
That’s awesome, if I get the chance to do any subbing I will try this
As a new sub, I found that subbing in an elementary school is so much work. I worked my butt off trying to follow the lesson plans while managing misbehavior in the classroom. I was also asked to do yard duty, help supervise in the cafeteria, and supervise the front of the school after school was over. I barely had time to pee and even lost my appetize because I was so busy. The pay wasn't even worth it for me.
I make more at my "regular" job but it's fun to just run around with kids for a day a few times a month 😅
Ahh so busy you can’t eat. Just like the restaurant industry 😢
I pay attention to how students treat me, but I'm also aware of how adults treat me. If they don't treat me right, then I'm not coming back to that school.
Yeah the adults can be just as nasty
After a decade of zero support from administration staff and the actual threats from students who turned out to be gang members I said no more.
I'm a 9th grader writing a book and in it is a stariotypical substitute who gets bullied by the class. I happend to stumble upon this video looking for pranks that the children of my fictional classroom could pull the sub, but instead I found someone giving advice to subs who have to deal with kids like my fictional ones. I thought it would be interesting to put my self in the shoes of a miserable teacher and see how it goes. To anyone who cared enough to read my comment, hi and thanks for reading. Goodbye.
So how did it go? What tips would you give us poor souls trying to fill in for your teachers, we are just trying to make some money and help out …
Good luck with your book. Sounds interesting.
I am from Asia. Our countries produce some of the smartest mathematicians in the world. The kids those who are not smart or average are also amazing in most parts of the country. Especially those who are less privileged are so thankful as they know teachers play a major role in their lives. There are so many teachers who sacrifice their own meal to feed the hungry children in the class here. I can’t believe how mean some students from certain developed countries could be to teachers who come to help the school system. It is not a joke to intentionally plan to give teachers a hard time.
For cleaning up the class at the end of the day, maybe take a photo of what it looks like in the morning before the kids file in. Thanks! This is great.
Please please pleeeaaaasse make a video to help out those who are student teaching and will be in their own classroom in the next year or two! Maybe a “what I wish I knew” video or “tips for first year teachers at the beginning of the year” or something like that!
I am so nervous, but I keep telling myself "I can do hard things" and "I am capable of doing anything God puts in my path". I was a preschool teacher but am becoming a sub to get experience in an elementary school before student teaching in the future. This video really helped me out a lot. Thank you for your channel
But God did not put it in your path. We live in a very fallen world "where time and chance happen to us all". These things are caused by evil in the world. Do you actually believe that God causes these evil things to happen? I was assaulted five times in the classroom. Did God do that? Certainly not.
Leah you can do hard things and whatever the Lord has placed in your path is meant to make you a better and stronger child of His. God Bless You and Keep On Going! You got this! ✝️❤
How are things going now?
Follow up?
One of the 1st thing I learned during my first week of Subbing...introduce yourself to the other Teachers in the grade that your are covering!!!
For Subs that are not provided a Sub Plan, those other teachers are your parachute for the day! Do not be afraid to reach out to them, they are extremely helpful! Ask them what they have planned for the day, and would it be possible for you to have a copy of their lesson...chances are, they are covering the same content or topic!
Don't panic, the students can smell fear! 🤣
I agree! I just recently subbed a kinder class that had no sub plans. Luckily, I went and talked to the other kinder teachers and they came in with binders of worksheets, books, and even a copy of their lesson plans. They were super helpful
For middle school and high school, all work is done on chrome computer. There really is no teaching.
Wooow! Very helpful advice
Thanks
This is the only video of its kind out of dozens on UA-cam that I've related to.
You started out by stating your experience, had an excellent outline, and you spoke well and didn't deliberate.
Great video, thank you for making it, I feel more prepared.
I'm subbing for the first time this week at the local school. I'm excited and nervous. I know that the classroom management will be the most challenging part of the day. Thanks for the tips!!
Hello! I hope you had a successful first day. I'm up for an interview to become a sub, I have no experience but I love kids and really value education. I was wondering if you could maybe detail the type of questions you were asked and how you responded to them? I really have no clue what to expect! Thanks a bunch!
My aunt is a substitute trying to become a teacher. I shared this video to her and she really liked it
It's been two years since you posted this; I'm looking at potentially becoming a substitute teacher, but have zero class room experience, and my A.A.S. is not educational at all. This video is internet gold, and has helped me so so much. Funny enough, it actually made me more excited to give it a try.
Same! Have you subbed yet?
How did it go?!
I'm 19 and studying to be a teacher! I just got hired as a substitute teacher for the school district. Being only 19 I'm excited but also terrified so this helps so much! Thank you!!
I'm 17! Im so exited.
Im in the same position. How are you doing now as a substitute
@@monique7885 Pretty well! I personally found a love for all grades, but some classes can be a little overwhelming. Just act confident and don't show that you are nervous. Good luck!
I got hired as a substitute teacher and idek where to start lol
@@simplyshaye777 some things just get better as you get experience. If you get hired on as a substitute it's best to take every possible opening you can so you gain more experience
March 24, 2022: awesome video! The cell phone tip works to perfection. I recently retired from juvenile probation after working for 20 years. 18 of the 20 years, I work intensive probation with the juveniles which need more strict and structured supervision. Recently, I started subbing and tried the cell phone tip with class and it worked very good. Thanks
I subbed for 5 days! That was enough excitement for me.
This is a great video! Feeling a little better about walking in to my first class with ZERO experience.
Subs are very much appreciated! I recently retired from teaching and started subbing almost right away (believe it or not). It's good to be in a classroom without having the multitude of responsibilities that a teacher of record has. And, I know that the teacher who is out and other teachers really appreciate my presence. Instead of all of the frustration I had in the classroom, it has mostly been very positive and enjoyable!
Kinda got choked up at the end when you said that substitute teachers are appreciated. As a sub who had a rough day today in the classroom, I needed to hear it.
I came across your video hoping to find some helpful tips. Today was my first day as a substitute in a kinder classroom. I could not get the students to listen to me one bit and it was VERY overwhelming. Luckily I was able to finish through the lesson plan but WOW what a day. I love all your tips and now that I think about it I could have gone more in to detail with the note I left the teacher. I'm trying not to be so hard on myself especially since this is my first time but I feel like such a failure when it comes to behavior management.
THAT'S NORMAL!!! You will become more comfortable and it will get easier. Kinder is TOUGH especially if you don't have any classroom experience! Hang in there :)
I've been subbing at the same school for a MONTH and the students KNOW me... and I cannot get them to listen to me! You are not alone.
How is it now? Do you have any tips for me? Lol I'm hoping to start by February.
Yes. And I don’t mind cleaning the teachers desk, but when you ask the kids over and over again to clean up their space and they outright refuse to do it, then it’s just not going to get done. I am not going to go back after each one of them and pick up after them when I have been asking them to do that all day. That is something that I feel should be left for the full-time teacher to see how they did so she can ask them why they left their mess the next day.
Divide and conquer. That's what you learn as a Sub. The time is limited, and I believe your first responsibilty is making sure that the lessons left by the original teacher are followed and completed. The rest is children skills, and that's easier said then done. Keep a sense of humor, and instill order Also use the kids who are reasonably responsible because,chances are, they know the routine. Remember that they're basically good kids. If you believe otherwise, don't bother doing this. An idle kid gets into mischief, bring along some extra work to keep them occupied. Get good relations with other Teacher's at an assignment
I watched this vid right before my first day in a classroom. It's been a couple weeks now and I just did my second day. This was super helpful the 1st time and reassuring the 2nd time. It was terrifying, but I gritted my teeth and did it and it ended up not being all that bad. Stressful for sure, but that will wain with time of course. Thank you so much for helping ease my entry into the world of subbing. As hard as it is right now, it's so rewarding..
Love these tips! The timer! Emergency folder! Note for teacher with specifics. Read aloud. Writing prompts. Go Noodle, just dance, blank bingo sheets, get to know admins and staff and principals, tidy up at end of day.
This is an awesome video! I'm beginning to supply teach at my children's elementary school this year, and even though I'm excited I'm also COMPLETELY FREAKING OUT. Haha. Your video helped calm me down. Thanks a bunch! Also, as a side note, thank you for showing the fearful side of subbing. I feel like a lot of videos kind of gloss over just how SCARY subbing can be! Kudos for your honesty!
You are so funny, but I love the way you keep things blunt as well. I have transitioned from the corporate world to subbing. My first assignment this morning is PE at a middle school. Hope I do well! Love your vids! Great and helpful info.🌸
Also moving from corporate to the classroom. How was the transition?
This is beyond helpful! About to start subbing tomorrow with zero classroom experience and this helped put my mind at ease.
I finished my 1st year in teaching last year. This year, I've decided that being a substitute teacher is my job. I'm subbing special education classes. I mostly support teacher aides and open and close the activities.
Im in 7th grade idk why im here😂
Hahah
I'm in 10th now I miss 7th that was my favorite yr ever.
same lmao
You probably graduating or graduated now
@@Babyboy_Mattomg that’s so cool
I just got my license to sub, nearing 40 and I decided to sub for a bit before taking the bigger life changing plunge of becoming a teacher. I've been watching and reading everything I could to prepare myself, still feel like I'm continuously under prepared. I haven't had my first day/class yet, but I know that day will come. Thank you for this video, it's one of the more helpful ones I've found so far.
I am so proud of you! You will do great!
How did it go?
These are amazing tips you shared. I'm about to start my second year of substitute teaching and I learned the hard way about not having a sub bag or folder. I had to substitute for the music teacher one day and I have no musical talent whatsoever! The program the teacher left me required codes and a password, which I didn't have. The first class of the day was just me attempting to sing as they played instruments. I was doing horribly at the song and forgetting the words so I yelled "PLAY LOUDER!" and we eventually got through it. LOL! I will never be caught off guard like that again!
Lol. This seems like a Jack Black movie. Glad you got through it.
I'm glad for your last minute of this video. I just did my first week casual teaching and found myself spending a significant amount of time on behavioural management (I did similar strategies that you mentioned).
Classroom management is a big part of our day as a casual. It is often hard to get all the work done.
I start subbing tomorrow, and even though I've volunteered and done the after school program for 8 years now I am petrified! I think I have watched this 4-5 times (it's also how I found you like a year ago!). Thank you for this!
My name is Carole appreciate you have not sub for decades. Thank you for the tips!!
Thank you for the simple, but important tips! I particularly liked your “raise your phone ” technique. I’ll be starting in July after 20 years of military service.
Wow thank you SO much for making this! I have my second substitute assignment tomorrow, and I’m so nervous, so this really helps.
How was your first assigment? I WILL have my first assigment Next Tuesday.
I have been a sub for 5 years now and I do everything you have mentioned in this video. I am very anal about leaving a classroom in a much cleaner state than I found it in. I have spent as much as 20 minutes after school making sure the classroom is virtually spotless. I really enjoyed your video today because you are one of the few classroom teachers that I have encountered that shows an appreciation for subs. In most teacher vlogs I watch it seems like those classroom teachers are determined to be as negative as possible about subs. I had a temporary teaching position last school year right after graduation, so I got to experience preparing for a sub and it was extra work, but I was just so grateful that I had a person willing to come work with my kiddos while I had to be gone. Do you feel that your experience as a sub has influenced how you view subs now that you are a classroom teacher?
I mean yes and no. Subbing is hard, so if anything it just makes me more empathetic and encourages me to plan as much as possible for them so they never have to get stuck in these situations.
Great question
You said anal 🤣🤣🤣
What makes subbing so hard? I’m starting my first subbing tomorrow
Such a wonderful and practical presentation! Thank you! My teaching has always been undergrad... my foray into K-12 starts next week! Exciting for sure, and less terrifying now that I have your guidance. Again, thank you.
thank you thank you thank you!!! I just finished student teaching, and I am for some reason TERRIFIED of beginning subbing. This made me slightly less terrified.
I’m going to start as a Substitute Teacher next week. Your tips are highly beneficial even for me, a teacher with a long experience.
Her tutorial was very helpful, and I liked the candid manner in which she presented her material.
I’m the girl that “taught” my imaginary friends and stuffed animals and “graded papers” that didn’t exist. Watching your videos makes me want to become a teacher. I’m 22, graduated college with a degree in the medical field, and your videos give me a hope I didn’t have to one day become a teacher! Thanks for uploading, thanks for your effort. It makes a difference in my life if it doesn’t for anyone else! #ibingewatchedyourvids
Sarah Faircloth thanks so much! I didn’t think I could be a teacher since I didn’t study education and then one day I was like I’m doing this!! Good for you! It’s the ward rewarding job there is ☺️
oh my gosh same I just graduated as a COTA but here I am looking into teaching again. I taught my stuffed animals every day after school whatever I learned that day ☺
Lovely video.. I’m a qualified teacher and after a 5 year long break from teaching have re-registered and and just started casual relief teaching (substitute teaching). In Australia you have to be a qualified teacher to be a substitute teacher. It’s been really nerve-wracking even as a qualified and somewhat experienced teacher. You don’t know the school and are trying to make a really good impression, I feel constantly on edge! I couldn’t even imagine doing substitute teaching with no teaching experience - wow! Videos like this really help! Thank you ❤️
Thank you! I just had my first subbing experience and it went horribly! There were no sub plans, 25+ kids and a new student. The kids were out of control, violent with one another, and extremely disrespectful towards me. I was in tears during the lunch period. Fingers crossed my next experience will go better. Thanks for sharing!
In my experiences as a sub, I've learned that if you sternly tell them that you will immediately send them to the principal's office, they'll calm down at once, because they know you're not playing games and that it's business as usual. I had to do that last week for a half day job as children were openly mocking me. Oh how that changes once you give them a final warning. Sending a wayward kid or two to the office will make your day a hell of a lot better. In short, the lesson that I've learned is to ALWAYS assert your power as a sub teacher at the beginning of the class if you want respect. YOU are the teacher and the ADULT in the room, not them, and they must respect you. And if that doesn't work, you understand that you don't have to return to that classroom.
who else is here because they expected their first day of middle school students to be wayyy nicer than they really are😅
I just finished my first week of middle school subbing and I'm not going back. I had to call security twice on this kid who said the purpose of black history month is "for us to get revenge on the white people." He strangled this kid with his own hoodie and then came back after they released him to harass my class again. He wasn't even in my class the second time.
I would never expect middle school students to, be nice- I remember being a middle schooler lol.
I wonder if you're projecting a victimized persona because children will sense that. If you don't control the room, they will.
this saved my life! I'm subbing for the first time this week for high school and I'm barely older than them, so Im nervous! thanks for this video!
I’m watching this after dropping my summer courses for my teaching credential (6 courses, 20 units total) and delaying my student teaching and graduation plans one more year, so I’ll be substitute teaching for another entire school year and the first half of the next school year.
I watched this when it was posted but now I just got a substitute teacher job so I'm rewatching 💗 I'm so excited to start! but a little nervous
Oh wow! Thank you so much! I was just hired a substitute teacher, and haven't subbed in a classroom yet. Hoping to start in a couple of weeks. This video was SO HELPFUL and I do feel a tad more prepared! Thank you!!
How was it?
Thank you for this video. I have to take up subbing on top of another job, and i have no experience with it. I'm looking for subbing tips everywhere. The timer tip is good. Especially in elementary where most kids prize recess. And it avoids some behavioral pushback.
I'll try it in January
And also the activity folder. Brilliant
Omg. You are so specific, resourceful and helpful! You’re tone is super supportive and calm. I hope you make more videos!! This is one of my fav vids on yt with teacher tips! Thank you!!!
I am subbing in for the first time tomorrow in a kindergarten class and I SO appreciate all of the tips you gave. I am feeling much better about walking into that classroom in the morning. Thank you!
How did it go? I have my first day subbing on Friday! It's a 4/5 combo class.
Update ?
thank you so much for posting this. I’m just getting into substituting and have zero experience in the classroom so I’m feeling very nervous as I prepare for my first day!!!!!
I'm so grateful for this video because I 'am planning to be a substitute teacher before I can be a full time teacher because right now, I am currently studying for my praxis. Wish me luck!
Emphasis on "seventh grade English," made me spit out my coffee. Tickled pink!😆
I say if you have time and depending on how the class behaves, then clean up if you can. But subs do so much as it is they shouldn't be expected to fix what your students created. It's like babysitting if I have extra time I'll help clean your house, but if your child is a lot, it probably can't get done. I have so mant sub colleagues that have told me teachers treated them worse than the kids they're not personal assistant or cleaners that's the janitors job.
Wow! Thank you so very much. I just started with substitute teaching. I am a bit older, however, I really appreciate your words. Thank you.
Super helpful. Just got my sub teaching certificate and have no classroom experience.
rewatching this to get ideas for when I supply in grade 6/7/8 classes. The classroom management techniques need to be totally different from K-5! I always set expectations etc, but with older students it tends to crumble by the afternoon. I will be trying out the phone timer to hold them accountable!!
Today I had a terrible subbing day for a kindergarten classroom.. no notes, no charts, nor assignments. It was definitely a tough day and surrounding teachers were not much help.. only a couple which I appreciate! Your video made me feel so much better, thank you! Love the tips!! I’ll definitely feel more confident in the next class I sub in.
I’m sorry you experienced that!!
Thank you for the simple, but important tips! I particularly liked your “raise your phone 📱” technique. I’ll be starting in July after 20 years of military service.
I’ve never subbed before and I just got hired as one, I’m very excited but super nervous too. It’s something I’ve always wanted to try and luckily the local schools are pretty desperate for subs so they are giving me a chance lol. Thank you for this video, it’s really gonna help me 😊
I’ve been a substitute teacher for 8 years. I was beginning to wonder why I never seen this video, but actually, I think I might have.
Also, kids don’t really do silent reading anymore. You can tell this video has already aged out.
I also rarely have had access to the teacher computer. It’s been insane. I guess I have just gotten by, by the grace of God!
I just got a full time sub job. For middle school. Your beginning is literally mine. I’m terrified, but trying to learn through you and others!
Lol I love your behavior management tips!! I have been subbing a few years and currently in the process of getting my credential. When I first started subbing I swear they threw me to the sharks because i had no guidance whatsoever. I had to just learn as I went which was hard anyways I ended up on your channel because I am always looking for tips and ideas for teaching. Thanks for taking the time to share your tips.
I am a substitute teacher from Texas. So glad I re-watched for fresh reminder. My last subbing wasnt quite well as expected. I had difficulty with elementary kids. I think I was a bit too lenient on the misbehaved kids also. I was firm with the misbehaved but instead of yelling I try to be firm. My 8th day subbing and my last school was concerned and wants to discuss next week. Happy/relieved for your big pointers. I wanted to sub b/c I am a trying to improve my tutor skills.
I am also trying to apply for sub teacher in Argyle isd,Texas.How was your interview process?pls help.
O hey will get back in may so please remind me! Busy with college
Thank you so much for the tips! Subbing for 3rd grade tomorrow! My son's class nonetheless. 🤦 Thankfully I know many of the students. Still nervous though! Wish me luck!
I was looking everywhere on UA-cam for a video like this. This has been the most helpful sub video yet THANK YOU❤️
Ooou, I just did a video on substitute teaching as well. I think it’s super important to make videos talking about this. I subbed for a bit as well. It really does help build those tips and tricks that you can use in your classroom.
You always find a way to make tough topics feel simple!
While I've been organizing and straightening up before I leave for the day
I was under the impression there is cleaning staff that will do the floor and trash. In my experience (in elementary) there are often "paper shredder" mess makers. While I have the students clean up after themselves routinely, there is inevitably someone who has made the kind of mess that requires a vacuum or some other cleaning tool. Now I am very conflicted about how to handle that.
Guess I have my own home work cut out for me ;)
Thank you for saying you appreciate us and doing this video. It's helpful... where I am subbing the appreciation and support seems to be in the "less than" category. In fact I have left a couple of schools where I was definitely looked down apon simply by being a sub. Naturally those are the schools where I will not be returning :(
Very helpful video.
I was hired out of college and never was a substitute but I can imagine how hard it must be. My school has a sub shortage and so often teachers are asked to cover classes to help out, and even that is so stressful! I love what you said about getting the room cleaned up-- YES! When I come in after being out and the room is organized and clean it makes me SO happy and relieved!! Great video :)
This is a great video on substitute teaching. If you're new to subbing or considering sub teaching this video is a must watch.
The folder idea is something I learned too along the way. Many situations where there was no plan or just not enough to fill the day. I always had 3 folders in my bag - one for each age group, because you never know if you will be asked to cover a different class than the assignment you were going in for. Usually I had some general language/grammar activities, and always math colour by sheets or math mystery pictures. They take a good amount of time for the kids to get done and they enjoy it. Keep it general like addition/subtraction, multiplication/division, or graphing coordinates for the older kids. I also always had a general picture bingo game (bc you don't need to have any skill to play it) and some prizes like erasers, pencils, or lollipops. As a full-time teacher now though, I do always try to leave a set of colour by or mystery pictures on my desk ready to go, or some reading comprehension activities. Having a class set already copied and siting on your desk at all times or having a file or folder with emergency activities is just common sense for a full-time teacher bc you just never know when you will need to be away, and why put that stress on a sub coming into your room? One school I worked for actually required 2 full days of sub plans and copies that were to be kept in the office for emergency purposes. Thank you to all the amazing subs out there!
Just got hired as a building sub … the blank bingo is genius! Love behavior tips, too. That’s key!
Awesome tips! Thank you! Please spell out your discipline plan for the sub too. I have subbed in classes with no discipline plan at all! This is more important than a lesson plan in my opinion.
So helpful and fun to watch. Appreciate the sincerity!!
Going in to my very first substitute teaching job on Monday! Going to try a lot of these tips!
Your first 3 words did not help me feel any better about this new adventure I'm putting myself through! I'm an archaeologist and with the past 2 years of being secluded in this Covid world, bored spitless, I figured substitute teaching would be a great winter occupation, as I work during the warmer months in the Wyoming and surrounding states. I HAVE NO IDEA what I'm doing. I sat in on classes in college when the prof needed to be gone, but it was only directing discussions about our assignments.
The school district told us to make up this sub trick package? I had no idea what would work. I have many great tales that I can bring up for say 10-15 minutes of fill time for older students. Your video has given me some peace of mind. Your idea about the stop watch phone is great - will have to ask if that is acceptable here in our district! I am going to order, or try to find, a bingo box for all age groups, animals for younger children and have them take turns "pulling pictures out of a hat"!
I feel a little less, not entirely by any means, FREAKED out with your great suggestions. I hope being a mom, grandmother, and great grandmother who adores young folks will help! Thanks, again!
Can't explain to you how helpful this video has been for me! Just got hired as a sub and am absolutely terrified. This video gave me some confidence.
Phone timer works great. I've scanned everyone's sub ideas and yours are the best.
I just graduated high school last month and I’m going to get my sub cert in August so I’m currently binge watching these videos,thank you !
I have background of education and I have little different perspective than yours about substitute teacher. You nailed it the first point, it is chaos, you can't reason with children, UNLESS you behave like their parents.
"Ahhh" ... Breathing, simply because my first day is approaching. These tips really help so much! I packed a bag with a checklist and extra activities just in case! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! 🙌
We are wearing. The exact. Same. Shirt. Holy cow.
Hello! In my humble opinion, this is probably one of the top three subbing videos I have seen! Thank you very much!
Oh my goodness...so gonna try the phone timer thing. My kids are totally gorgeous, but they will. not. be. quiet. Boys. It's always the boys! I had a year off from this last year, but we're back at it again with the talking all the time.
When I was doing CRT (casual relief teaching) work I would always start the morning with "I know how you guys treat CRT's. I've seen it and my own kids tell me about it, and you're not gonna treat me like that. You're going to behave as you would for your regular teacher and I am going to be able to tell him/her how wonderful you are." I did a lot of CRT work in the school where I did my final year professional experience, so half the kids in the room already knew me enough to know how I operate.
But that phone thing - so good!
Yeah but what about middle school kids? We are subs I don’t think I have that authority to make a student in middle who rotates classes to stay whatever minutes with me before lunch etc. How would we go by that?
Love the timer on the phone tip. Genius 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I found you today and I have been binge watching all of your vids💜 such great tips I am going to utilize! ☺️
I started subbing 7 months ago and liked it so much that I’m getting my credential. Something I try to do (I sub for high school) is make sure that all the work for each period is on a folder or binder clip and labeled with a post it note so the teacher doesn’t have to try to figure out which kids are in which pile.
I never thought about leaving my number for the teachers since the assignments are all online, that’s a good idea.
Thank you for making this video! I just graduated in May and started subbing last month. Your tips for a backup activity folder were very helpful, and I'm going to put something together like that soon! Subbing has been challenging for me so far, but I've had some amazing students so far that make it all worth it. Thanks again!
I wish I had seen this video when I began subbing. I've been subbing for 2 years now (elementary only) and while I would say most days go as smoothly as they possibly can, some days (like today) are pretty rough. At the end of the day today, I felt like crying. I had a sixth grade class that was so disrespectful and would not listen. Nothing I did seemed to work. I always set my expectations before any new lesson, but the students today completely ignored them. I had to call admin because they were getting so much out of hand and boy did the class get an ear full from the principal. I had never heard the phone/timer thing before so I'm going to start using that. Most schools I sub there's p.e at the end of the day so when I use it I can tell students it's going to keep track of how much p.e time they owe me. Thank you for your tips!
Thanks for putting this information out there. I'm going to be subbing this fall, and although I have worked as a special ed para for 7 years, I've never been in charge of a big classroom. It is a little bit terrifying, but I'm sure these tips will help me be successful!
Great, super helpful vid for me. Done my first 6 days of subbing and my gawd it is tough!!! I will keep trying. Thanks for this resource!! From Australia.
Thanks for the video. I have hesitated to be a substitute in the past year because I lacked classroom experience. I'm in the first part of my practicum and have learned a lot about classroom management from my cooperating teachers. I am honestly more nervous to substitute the k-5 grades, because I'm getting certified in middle school.. I just picture chaos 😂
This video is GOLD. Just what I've been looking for. It's to the point, practical, useful advice. THANK YOU!!!
My 7th grade homeroom had 7 kids in it. Yup 7! We were all apart of a much bigger Texas History class which is what our homeroom teacher taught. We always got the best reviews from all of our substitutes lol!
Thank you. I’ve been eligible to substitute teach for 15 years but finally worked up the nerve to do so. I have two educators in my family (Principal and Special Ed) and they’ve been giving the side-eye all these years. I’ll be dipping my toe once my 30-day permit is approved. I’ll also be back for your nuggets of wisdom.