First-Day Tips for New Substitute Teachers

So, you’ve said yes to your first subbing gig—woohoo! That’s a big step, and while it’s exciting, it’s totally normal to have a few butterflies. Stepping into a new classroom can feel like a wild adventure, but with a little prep and a good attitude, you’ll be ready to rock your first day with confidence!

Here are some tips to help you survive and thrive in your new role:

1. Know Before You Go: Prepping for Success

Before you even step into the classroom, take a moment to get cozy with the school’s policies and procedures. This means knowing who’s who, where to find essential documents, and what to do if things go sideways. Most schools have a sub binder or folder with all this crucial info. If you can’t find one in the classroom, swing by the office and see if they’ve got one for you.

Also, try to gather as much intel as you can about the lesson plans and what’s expected for the day. If you can, email the teacher you’re subbing for ahead of time and ask for any lesson plans or important details you’ll need. Most teachers are super helpful and happy to help you prep for your day in their classroom. Don’t be shy—ask for help if you need it!

2. Early Birds Get the Worm (and a Smoother Day!)

Punctuality is the name of the game, especially on your first day. Get there early to give yourself some breathing room to explore the school, find your classroom, and get everything set up. Plus, it shows you’re professional and serious about your responsibilities. But honestly, the best part is that giving yourself that extra prep time will make your day a whole lot smoother. Who doesn’t want that?

3. Be Flexible: Embrace the Unexpected

As a substitute teacher, you might run into some unexpected twists or changes in the lesson plans. Stay flexible and ready to roll with the punches. Your main mission is to create a positive learning environment for the students, so don’t be afraid to think on your feet and get creative with solutions.

Pro Tip: Keep some grade-appropriate activities handy for those surprise moments—think worksheets, color-by-number sheets, or writing prompts. Need a breather? Brain breaks to the rescue—they’re perfect for moments like these! Check out this Brain Break Printable Cards Set!

4. Setting the Tone: Expectations That Make a Difference

Kick things off by setting clear expectations to keep the classroom vibe chill and orderly. Lay out the rules for behavior, how to ask questions or get help, and what happens if anyone decides to rock the boat. When you have a solid game plan, everyone can stay productive and focused. Stick to the preexisting classroom management system if there’s one in place. But if the teacher doesn’t leave you any guidance, create your own system for the day, and explain to the students how it works and why it's their go-to method for the day.

5. Making Connections: Engaging with Students the Right Way

Building rapport with students is the secret sauce to a supportive learning environment. Take some time to learn their names, chat about their interests, and genuinely show you care about their learning. By forming connections, you can create a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience for everyone.

Pro Tip: Kick things off with a quick game asking about students’ interests or quickly make your own seating chart with their names if one isn’t provided.

6. The Final Bell: Leaving Feedback Like a Pro

Before you head out for the day, take a few minutes to jot down some notes for the classroom teacher. Let them know how the day went, any challenges that came up, and any suggestions you have for next time. It’s also helpful to note where you left off in the lesson plans—did you finish everything? Have to stop early? Were there any parts students struggled with?

Leaving feedback not only helps the teacher but also shows you’re a professional who cares about the students’ learning. If the teacher left a form for this, use it! If not, just grab a blank sheet of paper or use your own “while you were out” template. Or grab my already made While You Were Out Form freebie here!

7. Reflect and Learn Lessons Learned: Reflecting on Your Substitute Teaching Adventure

Finally, take some time to reflect on your adventures as a substitute teacher. What rocked? What could use a bit of tweaking? By constantly reflecting on your practice and seeking outgrowth opportunities, you can become an even more effective and confident educator. Keep notes for each subbing gig, so you can track your improvements and spot areas you might want to work on. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or feedback from the teachers you’ve subbed because they're there to help you too!

Remember, your first day as a substitute teacher might be a bit of a wild ride, but it’s a golden opportunity to learn and grow. Keep your enthusiasm high, stay flexible, and be open to connecting with your students. You’ve got this! Good luck!