As an elementary classroom teacher for 26+ years, I always loved using engaging games and activities whenever possible to support instruction. When students are relaxed and having fun, it's a perfect environment for learning! As I create resources for my TPT store, I keep the same goal in mind -- make learning fun! Children love practicing math and phonics skills while playing games. They'll happily read and reread to prepare for a Reader's Theater performance (while building reading fluency at the same time). These kinds of activities (and many more) are valuable tools that help students be successful -- and love learning!