As a teacher, you never know when an illness, emergency, or personal situation might keep you out of the classroom. The last thing you want is to scramble at the last minute to create sub plans or leave your students without a clear plan.
Preparing ahead of time ensures your class runs smoothly in your absence and reduces stress for both you and your substitute. Here are five smart ways to get ready for those days when you can’t be at school.
1. Create a Sub Binder
A well-organized sub binder is a lifesaver for any unexpected absence. Include essential details like daily schedules, classroom rules, student rosters, emergency procedures, and helpful notes on students with special needs or behavior plans. Having all this information in one place makes it easier for a substitute to step in seamlessly. Check out this Sub Binder resource!
2. Organize Emergency Sub Plans
Prepare a set of no-prep or low-prep lesson plans that align with your curriculum but are simple enough for a substitute to implement without much explanation. These should be engaging and easy to follow so that your students stay on track even when you’re not there.
3. Stock a Sub Tub
A sub tub is a ready-to-go container filled with everything a substitute might need, including extra worksheets, storybooks, brain break activities, and classroom supplies. Having this prepared ensures a smooth day for your students and an easier job for your sub.
4. Establish Student Helpers
Train a few responsible students to assist substitutes with routines, transitions, and expectations. These students can answer simple questions about procedures and help keep the classroom running smoothly. This is especially helpful for younger students who thrive on consistency.
5. Have a Complete, Ready-to-Use Sub Plan
For a foolproof solution, consider having a detailed multi-day sub plan prepared. If you teach kindergarten, our Emergency Sub Plans for Kindergarten provide ten days of editable, ready-to-use plans that cover all core subjects. These plans ensure your students stay engaged in meaningful learning while making it effortless for any substitute to take over. Check it out here.
Teach first, second, or third grade? Check out my sub plans for those grades here!
Being prepared for unexpected absences can make all the difference in keeping your classroom running smoothly. With these five strategies in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your students are in good hands, even when you can’t be there!
Looking for more classroom management tips? Check out my post here!
