Teachers tips

However, if you finished those plans and the kids are getting antsy, here are 24 awesome ideas to make sure your students are engaged and learning, even when you only have a few minutes.

Need even more ideas for substitute teachers to fill time? These are perfect for the awkward few minutes right before the bell rings.

Try one of these quick popsicle-stick math time fillers from Journey of a Substitute Teacher.

“Take attendance after you get the kids started on the work, so they have time to get things completed.” —Terri Y.

“Follow the lesson plans as much as humanly possible, leave detailed notes for the teacher about what got done or didn’t get done, which students were awesome and not so awesome, and leave your number if you really enjoyed the class.” —Dawn M.

“Be pleasant in the faculty room if you eat there. Never say anything negative about the school, teachers, or students.” —Donna N.

“Some rooms are freezing, and some are hotter than heck!” —Edith I.

We’ve gathered the top Netflix educational shows that you can pull from. Stick with G-rated!

“I have a list of teachers I won’t sub for because no matter what, they always seem to have ‘that’ class. In other words, not very good behavior management which means subbing for them is a nightmare.” —Eric D.

Either in a backpack or a “just-in-case” bag. Check out suggestions for what to stock up on. And check out our list of favorite teacher bags to hold everything you need!