12 Practical Tips to Plan Better Lessons and Enjoy Teaching More.

Planning great lessons takes more than just structure. It takes heart, creativity, and the ability to connect deeply with your group of children. Whether you're a preschool teacher, assistant, or homeschooling parent, thoughtful planning makes all the difference in how your day flows and how children engage with learning.

Here are 12 practical tips to help you plan more meaningful, inclusive, and joyful lessons, without the overwhelm.

1. Start with Clear Objectives.

Begin every lesson with a simple question: What do I want my students to learn or feel today? Clear goals give you direction and purpose, making it easier to select the right activities and resources.

2. Incorporate Student Interests.

Children learn best when they’re genuinely curious. Pay attention to what excites them — dinosaurs, baking, space, or bugs — and find ways to weave those interests into your weekly themes or group projects.

3. Use Varied Teaching Methods.

No two children learn the same way. Try mixing in storytelling, role-play, music, visual cues, hands-on materials, and group discussion. Variety keeps energy high and helps reach every learner.

4. Plan for Differentiation.

Recognize the diversity in your group. Some children need more time, others need more movement or repetition. Plan flexible activities with optional challenges or support layers so everyone can succeed and feel included.

5. Integrate Real-World Connections.

Bring learning closer to children’s daily experiences. Talk about the weather, the community, seasons, or family life. When children see that learning connects to their own world, it becomes meaningful and memorable.

6. Use Visual Aids and Tools.

Visual supports like images, schedules, diagrams, or simple charts help young children understand routines and concepts more clearly. They also support children who may be nonverbal or learning a second language.

7. Encourage Collaboration.

Create space for children to work together — through play, small group work, or shared tasks. Collaboration builds social skills and teaches empathy, listening, and shared problem-solving.

8. Include Formative Assessments.

Use check-ins throughout your lesson — questions, observation, or short reflection moments — to see what’s working and what might need adjusting. Assessment doesn’t need to be formal to be meaningful.

9. Allocate Time Wisely.

Break your lesson into simple blocks: introduction, activity, reflection, and transition. A balanced rhythm supports focus and gives children space to process and enjoy the experience.

10. Prepare for Flexibility.

Even the best plans may shift. A child may need extra attention, or the group may move in a different direction. Being open to change keeps your teaching responsive and grounded in the present moment.

11. Reflect After the Lesson.

After the day is done, take a few quiet minutes to ask yourself: What worked well? What surprised me? What could I try differently next time? These reflections turn every day into a learning opportunity for you, too.

12. Seek Feedback and Support.

Whether it’s from your colleagues, director, or even the children themselves, don’t be afraid to ask: How did that go? Collaboration fuels growth — and you’re never alone in this journey.

Planning isn’t just a task, it’s a chance to shape meaningful learning moments. With the right mindset, tools, and support, it becomes a space for creativity, connection, and growth. Whether you’re working in a classroom or at the kitchen table, you deserve resources that lift you up. 

Ready to Make Planning Easier and More Joyful?

If these tips resonate with you, there’s good news: Elina was built to support every step. Elina is an AI-powered assistant built in Finland to support early childhood educators in creating meaningful, child-centered lesson plans. From setting objectives to generating age-appropriate activities, Elina is designed to simplify your planning — while giving you more space for joy, creativity, and connection.

With tools like a free lesson planner, personalized activity ideas, and support for inclusive teaching, it’s your shortcut to stress-free planning.

Whether you're looking for a lesson plan template, exploring how AI in education can help, or simply want better support as a teacher or homeschool parent, Elina is here to help you plan smarter and feel good doing it.

Sign up here for Elina Freemium and discover how good planning can feel.