We’ve all been there: you wake up feeling awful, and the first thought is not “I need rest,” it’s “I need sub plans.” For years I’d type plans while running a fever. Then a teammate showed me her sub tub, and I’ve never looked back.
A sub tub is a bin with everything a substitute needs for a full day, packed ahead of time. When I’m out, I send one quick message saying “Use the sub tub,” and that’s it.
What’s inside mine:
- A welcome letter. A friendly note with our daily schedule, bell times, and where to find things.
- A class list with helpful notes. Who can be a great helper, who needs a movement break, and any important needs.
- Routines at a glance. How we line up, get attention, and handle bathroom breaks. Kids behave better when the routines stay the same.
- One day of plans per subject. Each in its own labeled folder with copies already made.
- Emergency info. Drill procedures and the office number.
- A “fast finisher” folder. Coloring pages, word searches, and puzzles for extra time.
The secret is choosing timeless activities. I don’t tie sub plans to the current unit, because they’d be out of date in a week. Instead I use review activities that work any time of year: reading response pages that fit any picture book, math review practice, a simple writing prompt, and a no-fuss art or science activity.
Refresh it a few times a year. I check my tub every couple of months. I update the class list, swap in fresh copies, and add a seasonal touch if I have time.
Leave room for feedback. I include a short note sheet asking the sub how the day went. Those notes help me follow up with kids and improve the tub for next time.
The first time I used my sub tub, I came back to a happy note, a tidy room, and kids who’d had a normal day. Best of all, I actually rested.
If you’d like to build your own, my editable sub tub kit is in the Shop. It includes the welcome letter, routine pages, and a full day of review activities you can print and pack.