OK, so this is not a secret—I’m a self-proclaimed hack enthusiast, especially when they save time and ramp up efficiency! But have I ever gushed about my love for planners? As a teacher, leaving my trusty bullet-point planner behind felt like heading out without a limb. Even during my rookie years, I clung to my lesson plans like a lifeline, making sure I wouldn’t miss a beat.
Now, as I’ve embraced my seasoned wisdom, I’m slowly transitioning to the digital planner realm (though I haven’t completely ditched my physical one—old habits die hard!), especially when I remember all the times I tried to handwrite my documentation of parent contacts in that overstuffed planner. Let me tell you, I’m all about this fantastic planner hack that TikToker @alldayapril has been sharing with teachers to make documenting parent contact a breeze.
She uses Google Sheets—linked to her planner and student accommodations list—to document parent contact quickly, efficiently, and in one place.
At around 1:43 in her video, @alldayapril explains how she uses a parent contact log to track every time she communicates with a parent. She integrates this log into her digital planner, which helps her keep everything organized. This system is especially useful if a parent hasn’t responded, allowing her to easily reference her attempts to reach out. It’s a simple way to ensure that all communication is thoroughly documented and nothing slips through the cracks.
Are you a little stumbled up on the step about linking Google Forms to her digital Google Sheets planner? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. I love that this video is spelled out step-by-step, too, because sometimes I really need it broken down! Here are the steps:
Here’s how to do it yourself!
1. Create digital planner calendar on Google Sheets
Look at how cute this calendar is!
2. Click responses from Google Forms, and then click “Link to Sheets”
So far, so good!
3. “Select existing spreadsheet” and click on the Google Sheets you want to link to
In this case, it’s called the 23/24 Digital Planner for @alldayapril.
4. Change the name of your form at the bottom of your sheet, and format your sheet to your liking
How far you want to format your new sheet is just personal preference. I know I like all my fonts to match!
Feeling overwhelmed creating something cute and functional from scratch? Check out All Day April’s ready-made templates on Teachers Pay Teachers.
In wrapping up, embracing this digital planner hack not only simplifies your teaching life but also injects some fun into your organizational habits. Whether you’re a digital newbie or a seasoned pro, @alldayapril’s tips ensure your transition to digital planning is smooth, visually appealing, and efficient. So, what do you think? Utilize digital planners and watch your calendar planning increase in efficiency!
