My favourite online resources for elementary teachers

Are you an elementary educator looking for online resources? Perfect! I’m going to share some my favourite sites for all things teaching: Lesson/unit planning, student engagement, classroom decor and more. Whether you’re teaching in the classroom or educating at-home, I’m positive you’ll find something in this list for you.

Be warned: This list is ever-expanding! I just love finding new resources that make everyday life as an educator just a little bit easier (or that make lessons more engaging for my kiddos).

One thing to remember: I’ve separated the following websites by category. But don’t let that restrict you, friend! Many of them can be used for cross-curricular planning!

Here are some online resources that are permanently bookmarked on my browser:

Literacy

  • Student Publishable Book: This is at the top of the list for a reason! With this resource, your class gets to create a publishable book! The teacher gets a hardcover copy and the parents have the option to buy one, too. How cool is that?!

Science

  • Google Earth: Geography is so fun to teach with Google Earth! This interactive resource can be used in tons of ways. You could facilitate conversations about climate change, culture, history, geometry, and so much more. There’s even an education section with lessons ready to go for you!

Math Resources

  • Code.Org Dance Party: This programming game is so fun. And I didn’t think I would ever say that about Math! This site teaches children how to code by teaching them how to code cartoon dancers and their dance moves. I’m sure your little ones will get a laugh out of watching their cats and sloths dance away!

Arts and Crafts

  • Crayola for Educators: This online resource is a great place to go if you need art lessons, craft ideas, or even lesson plans! Whether you’re teaching beginners or seasoned artists, you’ll find something for every level here.

General Resources

  • Canva: Okay, this online design platform has been one of my most used website since the beginning of my undergrad. The free version has tons of great fonts and images for you to access, and you can create pretty much anything. I’ve made everything from slideshows to instagram posts on there. It’s super user friendly, too!
  • Teachers Pay Teachers: Sometimes, there’s just no sense in reinventing the wheel! TPT has a massive database of resources created for teachers, by teachers. Whether you’re trying to upgrade your classroom decor, want fun lesson plans/units, or just need a few worksheets, this is the place.
    • P.S.: If you want to make some cash on the side, you could also try selling things that you’ve made!
  • Resources for Rethinking: I use this most for lesson planning, but the site also has lots of awesome resources that address current environmental, social, and economic challenges in our world. This Canadian website also lets you narrow your search by curriculum, topic, and age group!
  • TeacherTube: From kid-friendly songs to lessons on math, science, and more – This website has it all! And you guessed it, it’s like YouTube… But for teachers.
  • MakerSpace: I simply love this online resource site for coding, building, art, and music!
Elke Crosson
Elke Crosson

Elke has a BA in International Relations with a minor in Spanish from the University of British Columbia. She is currently in her second year of the Master of Teaching Program (Primary/Junior) at the University of Toronto and is researching the field of children's rights. She has experience in a variety of roles, having worked with children of all ages and in many capacities.

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