If Then Creativity Blog

Staying current helps you make informed decisions about your child's education. 

If Then Creativity's popular blog covers a range of educational topics to keep you up-to-date. 

Debra Lemieux

Recent Posts

The Differentiated Classroom: Effective Instruction for All Students

05 Oct 2017

“Differentiation is an idea as old as effective teaching.”

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Teacher Survival Kit: When a Student Says, “I’m Bored.”

03 Oct 2017

You have channeled the active energy of the new school year into a positive learning environment and worked hard to create meaningful learning experiences, while building a sense of community.

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September at If Then Creativity

28 Sep 2017

From tips to getting the school year off to a good start to ideas for back to school night, September’s resources offered a wide range of content to begin the new school year as an inspired teacher.

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Teacher Tips for Calling a Student's Parents

26 Sep 2017

Nowadays we can call anyone at anytime and anywhere, but who answers the phone?

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4 Ways to Build Student Excitement for Reading Nonfiction

21 Sep 2017

Whether it’s massive black holes or bursting volcanoes, the best way to get children excited about reading is to read with them, and let them see you reading too! Counter to what some readers think, nonfiction is not dry facts and information.

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Advice on How to Handle Students’ Questions About Difficult Current Events

19 Sep 2017

Controversial subjects should be discussed in schools.  Controversial subjects should not be discussed in schools.  Where do you fall along the agree/disagree spectrum?

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Back-to-School Night Tips From Real Teachers

14 Sep 2017

Back-to-School Night, Open House, Parent Meet and Greet, Meet the Teacher Night, whatever it’s called at your school, it’s an opportunity to connect with families.

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How Creating and Practicing Classroom Procedures Early in the School Year Can Save Your Sanity

12 Sep 2017

I was 21 when I accepted my first teaching job. Sixth grade, all subjects.  I knew nothing. Fortunately, I had a supportive principal as a mentor, a good friend as a colleague, and students that taught me as much as I taught them.

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5 Tips to Create a Positive Learning Environment the First Weeks of School

07 Sep 2017

Students start the school year at differing levels of excitement. Some are ready for the year to begin; others are reluctant to return.

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3 Must Do's On the First Day of School

05 Sep 2017

Ready, Set, Go!  The beginning of the school year is like a long, focused run.  

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