Episode 22 – Building Classroom Culture: 7 Activities to Begin your School Year on a Positive Note

Jeanette MihalchikHappy Music Teacher

  In this episode of The Happy Music Teacher podcast, we delve into the exciting world of elementary music education at the beginning of the school year. We explore 7 engaging activities that music teachers can use at the start of the school year to foster a positive and inclusive classroom culture. I dive right into your first done-for-you lesson … Read More

Episode 20 – Music for Change: Exploring Social Justice in the Music Classroom

Jeanette MihalchikHappy Music Teacher

    Today’s podcast explores the intersection of social justice and elementary music education. Today we have a special guest, Lindsay Lyons, a renowned educational justice coach. In observance of Juneteenth, we delve into important topics surrounding social justice and its implementation in the music classroom. Lindsay shares valuable insights and practical strategies to create a culturally sensitive and inclusive … Read More

Episode 13 – Move it Groove it – 9 Ways to Add More Movement to Your Elementary Music Classroom

Jeanette MihalchikHappy Music Teacher

Welcome to the Move it Groove it podcast, where we explore creative ways to incorporate movement into your elementary music classroom. Today’s episode is all about adding more movement to your lessons. First off, we’ll be discussing the importance of movement for kids. Movement is not only a fun way to engage students but also helps with brain development, gross … Read More

Episode 12 – Concert Crunch Time Three Strategies for the Elementary Music Teacher

Jeanette MihalchikHappy Music Teacher

Concert season is approaching (or maybe it’s already here for you). In this episode we’ll help elementary music teachers navigate through the challenges of concert season. Today’s episode will focus specifically on 3 strategies for managing your concert season. Here’s a sneak peak Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Concert season can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to … Read More

Episode 11 – Combat the Crazy – A Music Teacher’s Guide to Surviving Test Week

Jeanette MihalchikHappy Music Teacher

Rules for activities during testing weeks: Review only Use your most fun activities No thinking involved High engagement Little to no talking Keep it quiet What to teach during testing week: Steady beat activities Fun manipulatives Centers Escape rooms Karaoke Day Movement meet and greet or clapping games Line dancing Mr. Henry’s 4 Corners Quiet games like whisper day, tip … Read More