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OTT 262: Mid-Fall Teacher Fog: What It Is and How to Shake
Manage episode 511513211 series 3684783
Feeling that mid-fall classroom fatigue? You're not alone. The back-to-school adrenaline has faded, student behaviors are surfacing, and those carefully crafted routines are starting to fray at the edges. It's the perfect storm of teacher exhaustion that hits just as the calendar turns to October.
This episode tackles the very real phenomenon of "teacher fog" – that overwhelming fatigue that creeps in when the novelty of the new year wears off but the holidays still feel distant. I'm giving you full permission to recalibrate without guilt. Whether you need a mental health snow day or simply strategies to protect your dwindling energy reserves, we've got practical solutions to help you shake the fog.
The reality is that sustainable teaching sometimes requires a pause. We explore simple systems for regrouping your classroom routines, transitioning kids back into structure, and building in predictable activities that reduce decision fatigue. From emergency sub plans (including a free downloadable day) to creating "smart stations" that engage students while giving you breathing room, these strategies will help you navigate the messy middle of fall without burning out.
This season doesn't have to derail your teaching joy or your wellbeing. Take it one day at a time, celebrate small victories, and remember – it's okay to prioritize sustainability over constant innovation. Your classroom (and your health) will thank you. Ready to shake the fog and reclaim your teaching energy? Listen now and join our community of educators who are tired of pretending teaching isn't exhausting sometimes.
https://www.trinadeboreeteachingandlearning.com/subplansdayone
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/November-Sub-Plans-2nd-Grade-Emergency-Sub-Plans-2nd-G
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Chapters
1. Introduction to Mid-Fall Teacher Fog (00:00:00)
2. Understanding October Teacher Fatigue (00:01:23)
3. Permission to Take a Break (00:03:39)
4. Practical Tips for Energy Renewal (00:06:26)
5. Sustainability Over Burnout (00:09:13)
6. Finding Your Voice as an Educator (00:11:00)
256 episodes
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