Does your teacher-brain feel like it’s running on 2% battery and a prayer? It’s May in the classroom, which means the countdown to summer has officially begun, the “end-of-year crazy” is in full swing, and you’re probably juggling open house prep, field trips, and the ever-present testing season.
In Room 35, I know that May can feel like a marathon. But even when the days get long and the “spring fever” is high, I lean into the one thing that never fails to bring us back together: picture books. My goal this month is to help you cross that finish line with joy, not just exhaustion. Let’s “Open the Magic” one last time this school year and create those unforgettable Confetti Moments for your students!
If you love… staying ahead of the end-of-year chaos
Then you need: The May National Days Interactive Calendar
You are the teacher who wants to keep the engagement high but has zero time left to spend on Pinterest. This Canva-made interactive calendar is your secret sauce for May. It’s pre-planned with 12 kid-friendly celebrations, from National Astronaut Day (May 5) to National Smile Day (May 31). Each day includes a fun fact, a turn-and-talk question, and a digital read-aloud. It’s the easiest way to keep your morning meeting magical without adding a single thing to your to-do list. Not sure if the national days are for you just yet? I have this May National Day freebie to get you started!
If you love… puppies, parties, and a fresh stack of books
Then you need: The May Picture Book List
You are the teacher who knows that high engagement is the only way to compete with the “summer countdown” energy. This month is extra special because it features a guest star: my new dog, Miles! We are using A Puppy Like Yours to build community and share our own stories. We’re also bringing the party with Chicks and Salsa. It’s “nacho” average read-aloud! (I’ve even linked this companion resource so you can hit your ELA standards while your students are laughing.) This list gives you the “why” and “how” for 12 titles that will keep the magic alive until the final bell.
If you love… turning “test stress” into “test success”
Then you need: Helping Kids Beat Test Anxiety Blog
You are the teacher who sees the nervous pencil-tapping and the heavy sighs that come with testing season. Last year, I shared a deep dive into one of my absolute must-haves: The Anti-Test Anxiety Society by Julia Cook. This blog post breaks down how to use this book to give your students actual, practical tools to handle the “Test Monster.” It’s about more than just scores; it’s about making sure our kids feel brave and capable.
If you love… a deep dive into meaningful moments
Then you need: Last Year’s May Blog: Celebrate Big Moments
You are the teacher who loves to see how a theme can transform a classroom. If you want even more ideas for specific May dates, like the history of the chocolate chip cookie or mindfulness with I Am Peace, this is the post for you. It’s a treasure trove of summaries and classroom tips that I’ve personally vetted in my own classroom.
I’ve spent my career celebrating the power of picture books because I know firsthand what it’s like to struggle in the classroom. As a student with dyslexia, it was the magic of stories that helped me rise above. Now, as a 5th-grade teacher in Orange County, I want to help you find those same moments of success for your students.
Let’s make this May a month of celebration, connection, and, of course, plenty of confetti!
Don’t forget to tag me @RamonaRecommends on Instagram! I want to see your May book stacks and those beautiful Confetti Moments!
