Spring break has us finally catching our breath, and in this episode we’re leaning into what it looks like to bring more ease and joy back into our classrooms when everything feels heavy. Instead of trying to do more, we’re sharing a simple shift: bringing “grandma hobbies” into the classroom! These are low-prep, hands-on activities that get students creating, talking, and using their hands again. From playing cards and coffee bean “currency” to Legos, Magna-Tiles, friendship bracelets, simple sewing, and even using figurines for storytelling and blocking, we walk through practical ideas that can completely shift student engagement and behavior. At the heart of it all is the reminder that students thrive when their hands are busy, their brains are engaged, and the pressure to be perfect is lowered.Resources:Become a founding beta tester of Brave New Teaching University!Rules to BSWatch BNT episodes on YouTube.Shop Our Faves.Related Episodes:Episode 279, 2026 Will Bring Uncomfortable Shifts, and That's a Really Good Thing - BNT Team MeetingEpisode 289, Warm Demander Strategies and Our Latest Book Obsessions - BNT Team MeetingEpisode 290, The World is on Fire! What Can We Actually Control Right Now? - BNT Team MeetingEpisode 291, The 7 Stages of Grief When You Hear “Robot Teachers Are Coming” (Because WHAT?!)✨ SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode292"Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Head to bravenewteaching.com/waitlist to become a beta tester for BNT University!Support the show📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻Join Happy Hour!Curriculum RehabDown with the Reading QuizShop the BNT Resource LibraryConnect with us on Instagram @bravenewteachingSubscribe to our YouTube Channel

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.