Let’s be real—teaching is full of surprises.
You’re cruising through your read-aloud, the kids are actually listening, and then… fire alarm.
Or maybe you wake up feeling awful and now you’re scrambling to figure out what in the world a sub is going to do with your class.
Sound familiar?
I’ve been there (too many times to count), and one thing I’ve learned over the years is this:
Having a plan for the unexpected makes everything smoother.
So today I’m sharing a few tips I use to stay ready, along with a resource I’m extra excited about that makes this even easier.
Tip 1: Create a “Just-in-Case” Folder
This one lives in my sub bin and in Google Drive. Inside, I include:
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Seating chart
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Daily schedule
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Routines & procedures guide
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A few “always works” print-and-go activities
Think of it like your teacher emergency kit. The goal? You could be out unexpectedly and still know your students are learning something valuable.
Tip 2: Plan Activities That Don’t Rely on You
I love an engaging lesson with group work or tech tools—but on sub days or chaotic mornings, I need resources that students can do independently.
That’s why I keep a stash of:
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Reading response prompts
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Math review pages
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Word work centers
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SEL reflection sheets or journaling pages
And this week, I added 100+ more resources to that stash (more on that below 👀).
Tip 3: Build Routines That Carry the Weight
The more students know what to do when things go off script, the easier your life becomes.
So I teach my students:
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What to do when they finish early
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How to follow directions from another adult
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Where to find materials for independent work
Bonus: I post visual reminders and go over these routines often (and yes, I made a whole guide about that too).
What If You Could Have 100+ Plug-and-Play Activities Ready to Go?
This is the part I had to share.
This week only, you can grab The Ultimate Bundle—a one-time-a-year deal with:
✔️ Over $400 worth of ELAR and Math resources
✔️ 100+ activities per grade level (3rd–HS, plus early childhood!)
✔️ Everything from sub plans to escape rooms to warmups
👉 And the best part? It’s only $35.
I personally contributed to the 3rd and 4th grade ELAR bundles (my specialty!), but every grade and subject is packed with resources you’ll want in your teacher toolbox.
🧡 Whether you’re planning ahead or prepping for a “just in case” day, this bundle will save you hours down the line.
Click here to check it out before it disappears!
You’ve Got This.
Whether it’s a fire drill, a sick day, or just needing one more activity on a Friday afternoon, being prepared for the unexpected makes teaching a whole lot smoother.
I hope these tips (and the bundle!) help you breathe a little easier this year. You deserve that.
In your corner,
Kiki Joy
Teach by Kiki Joy
