Life will always bring distractions—but true fulfillment comes when we keep our eyes on what matters most and learn to move with grace through everything else. In this Teatime Thoughts episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we reflect on the quote: “Life is best lived by focusing on your goals and dancing through all other distractions.” ✨ You’ll discover: The importance of setting clear goals as parents, teachers, and caregivers. How to handle life’s interruptions without losing your joy. Practical strategies to stay focused and resilient every day. Whether you’re raising children, teaching in the classroom, or simply navigating a busy life, this conversation will inspire you to stay grounded in purpose and light on your feet.

Did you know that missing just two days of school a month can add up to nearly an entire month of lost learning by the end of the year? In this episode, we explore the importance of daily attendance and punctuality for children’s academic success, social growth, and lifelong habits. ✨ Share this episode with another parent, teacher, or caregiver who cares about giving children the best start possible! Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James Website: Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe

Have you ever had one of those days where everything seems to go wrong—whether at home, in the classroom, or just in life? In this Teatime Thoughts episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we pause to remember a simple but powerful truth: ✨ We can always start again. ✨ Join me as we explore what it means to embrace fresh starts—with our children, our students, and ourselves. You’ll hear practical examples for parents, teachers, and caregivers on how to reset when things don’t go as planned, how to model resilience for children, and how to show compassion to yourself when you stumble. This is your invitation to let go of guilt, lean into grace, and take the next step forward—because every moment holds the possibility of a new beginning.

Have you ever looked at your child’s homework and thought, “That’s not how I learned it in school”? You’re not alone. Today’s classrooms use strategies that can feel unfamiliar — and sometimes even intimidating — to parents. In this episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we explore how parents can embrace the role of “student” again in order to better connect with their children and support their education. When parents show curiosity and a willingness to grow, children learn something even bigger than Math or Reading — they learn that learning never stops. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James Website: Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe

We pour so much kindness into others—our students, our children, our communities. But when was the last time you offered that same compassion to yourself? In this short, heartfelt Teatime Thoughts episode of The Teachers' Tribe Podcast, we explore why self-compassion isn’t selfish—it’s essential. You’ll discover gentle, practical ways to care for yourself while continuing to nurture those around you. Because kindness starts with you. 💛 🎧 Listen now and take a breath—you matter, too. 🎶Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Do you want to support your child this school year, but are not sure where to start? When families and teachers work together, kids don’t just succeed—they soar. This episode provides 7 quick ways to stay involved and connected—even with a busy schedule. Let’s look beyond the backpack and talk about how families can power learning. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James Website: Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theteacherstribe/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTeachersTribe Twitter: https://twitter.com/teachers_tribe YouTube: The Teachers’ Tribe

"This life is a gift." Are you feeling overwhelmed, tired, or disconnected? This one is for you. On this episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we reflect on what it means to truly see the gift of everyday moments—especially in the chaos of parenting, teaching, and caregiving. It provides a heart-centered reminder that your life, your presence, and your impact matter deeply.

✨ Starting kindergarten is a milestone for children—and an emotional shift for families. As a veteran teacher, I’ve seen how preparation at home helps kids thrive in school. In this podcast episode, I offer practical, teacher-tested tips on: ✅ Building routines ✅ Handling big feelings ✅ Practicing social skills ✅ Making learning playful 💛 Let’s prepare with heart.

In this episode of Teatime Thoughts on The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we explore the powerful truth that change is constant. Whether you're a parent adjusting to a new routine, a teacher navigating curriculum shifts, or a caregiver supporting a child through a big transition—this conversation is for you. You'll hear personal reflections, practical tools, and empowering questions to help you and the children you care for move through change with grace and intention. 🎙️In this episode: *Why change is a necessary part of growth *3 simple ways to help children handle transitions *How to reflect meaningfully in seasons of change 🎧 Tune in and be reminded: You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to show up—open, kind, and steady. Ep063: The School Year That Changed Me (Reflections From My 30th Year Of Teaching) --> https://soundcloud.com/the-teachers-tribe/ttt-ep063-the-school-year-that/s-Xb4m1Q3PTNE?si=75f4dfac9e784691aa19519aed4dda54&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

After 30 years in the classroom, I thought I’d seen it all… but this year changed me. New grade. New school. New challenges; and a reminder that healing is possible. This week on The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, I’m reflecting on the year that grew me — and what every parent, teacher, and caregiver should know about helping our children (and ourselves) thrive. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

“Friendship is a gift that lasts.” What do lasting friendships teach our children—and us? In this episode, we explore the lifelong impact of true friendship and how we can help children build and cherish connections that matter. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, you are invited to think about how we nurture friendships in the lives of children—and in our own lives. With practical ideas, a gentle activity, and heartfelt storytelling, it’s a warm reminder of the power of connection. 🎶Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

This episode is a reflection on what it means to listen – really listen – in the context of raising and educating children. We’ll look at how listening builds understanding, why it’s so hard to do sometimes, and a few practical shifts you can make today to create a more connected relationship with the young people in your life. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James Website: Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe

This conversation is about something we all face at some point — maybe even today — and that’s the bumps in the road. Whether you’re parenting a strong-willed toddler, guiding a struggling student, or nurturing a child through big life changes, this message is for you. Let’s talk about parenting, teaching, caregiving, and the beautiful, messy journey of raising children. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Today’s teatime thoughts will focus on the idea that "Every neighbor can be your teacher." This one simple sentence holds a world of wisdom, especially for us — parents, teachers, caregivers — who are raising the next generation. How do we, as adults, bring this idea to life for the children we care for? This episode contains practical tips to accomplish this. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

We’re brewing up something special – quite literally. We’re diving into the heartwarming tradition of tea drinking in Jamaican culture, and how that simple act of sipping bush tea can become a powerful moment of reflection – not just for us as adults, but for the little ones in our care. Let us explore the wisdom tucked away in this little piece of Jamaican culture. Intro Theme Song: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Maintaining family connections in these times takes deliberate effort and intentionality. We can all agree that relationships, including those in families, are important because they provide a sense of identity, a sense of belonging, and also serve as sources of stability and strength. In this episode, I captured a wonderful conversation with four family members from the next generation about how our family connections have impacted them. As you listen, consider how you can also strengthen connections within your own family.

Seasons change; and with changes, feelings of unease and discomfort are possible. This reflective episode examines some life changes and challenging issues that educators face. Teacher life is not an easy road and the demands and expectations continue to increase. Summer break is really a time of recuperation for many, yet some cannot even do so because they have to work to make ends meet. As you listen, think about how you can make a difference in the life of an educator today. REFERENCE LINKS: https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/teachers-say-theyre-more-likely-to-leave-the-classroom-because-of-coronavirus/2020/06 https://blog.donorschoose.org/articles/5-ways-support-public-school-teachers https://interactioninstitute.org/the-rat-trap-in-the-farm-house/ CREDITS THEME SONG: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Shevaughn James & Maxine McFarlane Website: www.theteacherstribe.com

The conversation about the journey to motherhood with Laurie White wraps up in this episode. After welcoming a baby into the world, joy is evident and the real work begins. It is arguably the hardest job that a woman will undertake. Another level of planning is required to make arrangements for bringing a baby home and ensuring that the baby is welcomed into a safe environment. The mother’s recovery and care along with focusing on the welfare of the baby are also addressed in this informative episode. Related Episode: Back to Basics - Part 1 (Pregnancy) https://on.soundcloud.com/q713Zg2HSpD9a7G9A Back to Basics - Part 2 (Labor & Delivery) https://on.soundcloud.com/q713Zg2HSpD9a7G9A CREDITS THEME SONG: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Shevaughn James & Maxine McFarlane Website: www.theteacherstribe.com

One of life’s greatest joys is welcoming a new baby. Labour and delivery is worth the wonderful face-to-face introduction of mother and baby. “The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new.” – Rajneesh The conversation with Nurse Laurie White, continues in this episode with a focus on delivery and postpartum. Related Episode: Back to Basics - Part 1 (Pregnancy) https://on.soundcloud.com/q713Zg2HSpD9a7G9A CREDITS THEME SONG: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Shevaughn James & Maxine McFarlane Website: www.theteacherstribe.com Affirmations Source: https://www.happiestbaby.com/blogs/pregnancy/birth-affirmations

Education is a journey of a lifetime, and we can all benefit from gaining knowledge about a variety of subjects. It is not restricted to a formal classroom setting focusing on core subjects and opportunities to explore the arts. In this episode, we are stepping over into the healthcare setting. This conversation will be shared in three parts, and part one is being released quite fittingly at the end of teacher and nurse appreciation week and on Mother’s Day. Let's learn about pregnancy and prenatal care from a registered labor and delivery nurse, Laurie A. White. CREDITS THEME SONG: Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Shevaughn James & Maxine McFarlane Website: theteacherstribe.com