Top 10 Budget Must Haves for the Special Education Classroom
If you are just starting out as a special education teacher and have limited cash (hah!) you can adapt or create materials and deliver multi-modality lessons using these budget friendly items.
5 Innovative Activities to Create a Classroom Family
Kick off the school year with 5 simple peer connection ideas that help build trust, kindness, and classroom community from day one.
Amazing Organizational Hallway and Entry Ideas from our Brand Inspiration
One thing I have learned as a mama living in a smaller space with a larger family is that you cannot organize clutter, especially hallway clutter. Too much stuff, is too much stuff; no matter how many cute containers you buy.
Everyday Teacher Style That Starts the Year Strong
Back-to-school season is around the corner. Find your style with these comfortable teacher outfit ideas from the Southern Schoolhouse.
My Fabulous Closet Project – a Labor of Love!
Summer is the season when teachers finally get the chance to catch up on all the “life” stuff that gets pushed aside during the school year—painting a room, cleaning a closet, diving back into a favorite hobby.
Wash Day! Easy to Implement Laundry Room Inspiration
Step inside the Southern Schoolhouse for laundry room inspiration full of vintage charm and practical style. Wash, dry, fold, repeat—made beautiful.
New Year, New Reads: Back-to-School Picks for K–5
The first day of school brings big emotions, excitement, nerves, and everything in between. Whether your child is stepping into kindergarten or returning as a seasoned fifth grader, these back-to-school books are the perfect way to spark conversation, ease worries, and get them ready for a great year ahead!
Epic Kindergarten, Here We Come! Easy Tips for Parents
I still remember the day my oldest started kindergarten. I packed her little backpack the night before, laid out her outfit, and practiced saying goodbye.
Greatest Tote Ever! Bogg Bag and Accessories for Teachers
The Bogg Bag is a stylish, durable, and washable tote made for life on the go.
Greatest Tote Ever! Bogg Bag and Accessories for Families
The Bogg Bag is a stylish, durable, and washable tote made for life on the go.
Easy On the Go Calm Kit that Supports Students Anywhere
Having a portable calming kit ready to go is a game changer in the classroom. This simple tote holds everything you and your student will need.
Dreamy One Piece Swimsuit Inspiration from the Southern Schoolhouse
Summer one-piece swimsuit inspiration from the Southern Schoolhouse. Always look glam, whether pool, lake or ocean side.
Easy Ready to Go Sensory Bag for School Assemblies
A ready to go sensory bag for school assemblies.
Easy Budget-Friendly Dry Erasers Using Extra Fabric
“No one is perfect, that’s why we have erasers” -Anonymous
At Southern Schoolhouse, we love finding ways to repurpose old materials, like recycling flannel to create dry erasers.
School’s Out for Summer; Easy, Breezy Style Inspiration
The last bell has finally rung. Check out our summer style inspiration from the ladies at the Southern Schoolhouse. Happy Summer!
My Beautiful Southern Schoolhouse; See the Inspiration Behind our Brand
Of course it is obvious to have the word school in an educational website name, so schoolhouse seems like a no-brainer. Yet our name goes deeper. The story behind it goes back 20 years, actually over 100 years.
Terrific Educational Games That Work in the Home and Classroom
Growing up, many of us played classics like Chutes and Ladders, Monopoly, and Scrabble. While those games are timeless favorites, sometimes we want something fresh games that truly spark excitement and bring the family together. In this article, I’m excited to share some fantastic reading and math board games that are not only educational but also a blast for everyone to play.
Little Routines, Big Skills: Executive Function for Everyday Life
I’m going to be honest here, I’m a very routine-oriented person, but looking back, I’m not sure I did the best job building executive functioning skills with my three children as they were growing up.
During the summer, I had our days planned out: meals were prepped, the kids had routines, and I always included a little learning time. But the truth is, I did it all myself. I didn’t always involve them in decision-making or let them help with things like prepping food or managing their own time.
Start Now (So Back to School Isn’t a Frenzy)
Life looks a lot different during the school year than it does in the summer. Summer is a time to rest, but intentional routines make August feel less chaotic.
Special Letters to Brighten Test Day; Delivered with Love
In the days leading up to the end-of-grade test, our team found a meaningful way to lift our students’ spirits and encourage them before they began.
Calm your Chaos: End of the Year Declutter Checklist
By the end of the school year, I’m ready to lock the door and head out for summer.
But every August, I find myself wishing I had taken care of just a few things before I left, especially declutter.
Wonderful Summer Book Lists for Kids in Grades 4-5
Ten Summer Reading Picks for 4-5 students. Our book lists are sure to entertain. Happy Reading.
Wonderful Summer Book List for Kids in Grades 2-3
Trying to find books to read this summer? Check out our book list for your 2nd and 3rd grade children. Happy Reading.
Wonderful Summer Book List for Kids in Grades K-1
Book Adventures for Kids: Summer Reading Picks for Grades K-1
Easy Ways to Keep Kids Learning This Summer
Looking for fun, low-cost ways to keep kids learning over the summer break? These ideas feel more like play than school, but still bring families together.
Important Summer Self Care for Teachers and Why it Matters
Teaching is more than a job, it’s a calling. Educators give so much of themselves all year long. That’s why summer self-care is essential.
Superhero Test Prep Strategies That Make Learning POW-erful!
As testing season kicks in, it’s easy for students to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’re providing a test prep anchor chart with a Superhero theme.
Big Adventures in Durham, NC: Baseball, Burgers, and Good Vibes
Durham, North Carolina, is the kind of place where a simple stop turns into a fun-filled afternoon. We began with lunch at Tobacco Road Sports Café.
An Amazing POP of Fun for your Reading and Math
I have enjoyed using these POP games from Learning Resources! They fast-paced, hands-on games that are perfect for reinforcing key reading and math skills.
Mother’s Day Puzzle Keepsake: A Heartfelt Classroom Activity
To celebrate Mother’s Day, you can have your students create a special, personalized keepsake that is both creative and full of heart. This simple yet meaningful project allows students to express love and gratitude while adding a playful twist, turning their message into a puzzle!
5 Creative Ways to Use the Snackle Box for Sensory Tools, Supplies, and More
These 6-section Ribbed Snackle Box with a lid and handle that have become so popular and I have found it can be a tool for teachers looking to streamline their classroom organization and enhance student learning. It is compact, portable and stackable and perfect for keeping essential supplies and materials easily accessible. From math manipulatives to reading tools, social-emotional learning resources, and everyday classroom supplies, this simple yet effective organizer can help teachers stay organized, engage students in interactive activities, and manage classroom materials efficiently. In this article, we’ll explore the 5 ways this handy container can be used to support various teaching needs in the classroom.
No Cost Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas for Families
Wondering what to get your child’s teacher? Short on cash but still want to honor them? Teacher appreciation week is the perfect opportunity to bless those that work tirelessly to grow your child.
Test Time? Let’s Turn the Page with Confidence!
Testing season can bring big feelings, but the right stories can help students feel calm, confident, and ready to shine. These picture books are perfect for encouraging perseverance, easing worries, and reminding kids that trying their best is what truly matters. Let’s face those tests with brave hearts and strong minds, one page at a time!
Turning the Page, Amazing Picture Books to Wrap Up the Year
As the school year winds down, it’s the perfect time to share books that celebrate growth, friendships, and new beginnings.
Books That Celebrate Love, Family, and the People Who Care
These books honor the special people in our lives—the ones who care, support, and show us love. These stories remind us that families comes in many forms.
Awesome Picture Books That Will Inspire Perseverance
These picture books show young readers how to keep going when things get tough, how mistakes can lead to growth, and how effort matters more than perfection.
“Page Turners for the Final Stretch”
May and June are packed with excitement, celebration, and sunshine! We kick off with tacos and traditions on Cinco de Mayo, take a galactic trip on May the 4th (‘May the Force Be With You!’), and honor our heroes on Memorial Day. As the school year wraps up, we celebrate all we’ve learned and look forward to sunny summer adventures. Whether you’re into history, fantasy, or fun-in-the-sun reads, there’s a book waiting to match the moment. Let’s celebrate the season, one page at a time!”
From Courts to Cheesesteaks: A Philly Adventure with My Daughter
What was supposed to be a smooth flight north turned into an unexpected road trip when our flight to Philadelphia was canceled at the last minute. With my daughter’s volleyball tournament scheduled to start the next morning, we had no choice but to rent a car and hit the road, eight hours of lots of traffic, determination, snacks, and bonding time later, we arrived in the City of Brotherly Love at 11:30pm.
The Force Is Strong with Star Wars Fun; May the Fourth
Need some fun activities for your little Jedi’s? May the Fourth (Star Wars Day!) is the perfect excuse for a fun, themed family day. Here are a bunch of ideas ranging from low-effort fun to full-blown galactic celebrations
Crisp Air, NC Mountain Views, and a Whole Lot of Love
By Shannon at the Southern Schoolhouse There’s something magical about the North Carolina mountains in spring crisp air, bright blue skies, and rolling green peaks that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. And this past weekend, they gave us the perfect backdrop for a very special celebration. We made a quick day trip to Boone, home of Appalachian State University, to spend some time with my son for his birthday and soak in the beauty of the High Country. Even though it was just for the day, it was everything we needed, sometime together, lots of hugs, and the great scenery and good food. We had a great lunch at Rivers Street Ale House in Boone. Boone has so many great restaurants including the Dan’l Boone Inn, The Local and much more. No trip to Boone feels complete without a visit to Grandfather Mountain views are always incredible, but the real highlight is the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a little thrill, a lot of wind, and breathtaking scenery all around. Even just walking across it for a few moments makes you feel like you’re on top of the world. Blowing Rock is one of the most charming little mountain towns I’ve ever visited. The streets are lined with cozy boutiques, friendly faces, and some truly fantastic restaurants. We have eaten at several restaurants here such as the Town Tavern. Just strolling through the village and taking in the scenery is a treat, but the real magic is found at The Blowing Rock itself. With sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and that cool mountain breeze, it’s the perfect place to slow down and take it all in. We love making time for Banner Elk whenever we are in town It’s such a peaceful mountain town, and staying at Smoketree Lodge feels like a cozy little retreat tucked into the trees. From there, we usually head into town for dinner at Banner Elk Café, Sorrento’s or Bayou Smokehouse. And of course, no trip would be complete without a visit to Tweetsie Railroad! It’s a classic—part nostalgic fun, part Wild West adventure bringing out the kid in everyone. Perfect for a laid-back, memory-filled mountain getaway.
Adventures at Disney World: Exploring the Magic!
Spring Break is for recharging your battery as we prepare for end of school year madness. For me that is making memories with family!
7-Day BOOST Challenge, Get Students Ready to Ace Their Tests
In the final weeks of the school year, we begin to take steps to provide that crucial final push for students, ensuring they feel confident and ready as they approach their tests.
Turn Math into an Adventure with Math Start Books!
I use the Start Right books with my younger students to reinforce various math concepts, making learning both educational and enjoyable. I am still building my collection and have mostly Level 1 books because that is where a lot of my resource students fall. Below you will find some of my favorites!
Counting Made Fun with These Magical Counting Storybooks!
I love using these magical counting storybooks by by Amanda Sobotka with my younger students throughout the year! Whether it’s counting pumpkins in a Halloween tale, reindeer at Christmas, leprechauns on St. Patrick’s Day, or counting turtles, bulldozers, and fish, these books make learning fun and engaging! Each story features vibrant illustrations and exciting themes that keep kids excited as they count, touch, and explore.
Poke-a-Dot Adventures in Reading
Poke-a-Dot books are popular and fun because they connect interactive play with storytelling. Kids love pressing and popping the colorful dots, which adds a tactile part to reading, making it more engaging.
Awesome Atlantic Beach, NC: Waves, Sand and Stress Free Days
Our family loves visiting Atlantic Beach, NC when we can. There are so many things to do in Atlantic Beach, Morehead City and even Beaufort.
Springtime Board Books that will Bring New Wonders
Spring board books have bright colors, playful illustrations, and rhythmic text that mesmerizes young readers while introducing them to the wonders of spring.
April Blossoms: Books to Nurture Confidence and Self Belief
Building confidence in children is one of the most important gifts we can give them. Confidence doesn’t just help kids believe in their abilities; it’s the foundation for resilience, independence, and a positive self-image. Here are some books that will support this growth in children.
Spring Into Stories: April’s Book Picks
April is a month full of possibilities, and for young readers, it’s the perfect time to dive into books that spark creativity and curiosity.
Outfits that Score some Big Points on Game Day!
Game day is the perfect time to show off your team spirit! Explore these outfits to be game-day ready and flaunt your team pride in style!