Adding some fun background music while completing a math or reading mystery can create a positive working atmosphere in the classroom. Your student detectives will feel more immersed in the mystery task and, hopefully, be more motivated to persevere through the more challenging questions and puzzles. Like a workout, the type of music you choose to go with the rhythm of the activity is important. So, in this blog post, I've rounded up some music track suggestions, from YouTube, for you to readily find and play when doing a mystery activity at home or in the classroom. 

​As a student, art lessons were always one of my favorite subjects in class. Little did I know that as a teacher a lot goes into the preparation and organization of a well-run art lesson. It can sometimes go south very fast! The moment paint is spilled or two students think that wet paint brushes make for an excellent sword-fight, can be enough to put you off doing an art lesson again.

Dr. Dweck developed the idea of fixed mindset and growth mindset to describe the underlying beliefs people have about learning and intelligence. Her theory is that when students believe they can get smarter, paired with effort, their brains become stronger. With this mindset, high levels of achievement can be reached. 

Researchers have also discovered that teacher practice has a big impact on student mindset. The feedback that teachers give their students can either encourage a child to choose a challenge and increase achievement or look for an easy way out. For example, studies on different kinds of praise have shown that telling children they are smart encourages a fixed mindset, whereas praising hard work and effort cultivates a growth mindset. 

What’s the best way to get started with your growth mindset revolution? 
Check out these five must watch Growth Mindset videos. 

​Do you diffuse in your classroom? Have you ever considered it as a way to help promote a healthy and positive classroom environment?
Essential oils can clear unpleasant odors, calm students, assist with behavior management, plus boost mood and focus.  While the desired effects of certain oils may not always be the same for everyone (I cannot make any promises that this will solve all of your classroom problems), it will still keep your classroom smelling lovely and  improve the general mood.