"Children love to explore and discover, I will be their tour guide"
Dear Parents.....
Mary had a little lamb,
she also had the flu.
And when she left my day care,
the others had it too.
So anytime your child is sick,
please keep her home with you.
Then the children in my care
will be happier and healthier too!
author unknown
THE VALUE OF PLAY
Play Today
You say you love your children,
and are concerned they learn today?
So am I - that`s why I`m providing a variety of kinds of play.
You`re asking me the value
Of blocks and other such play?
You`re children are solving problems.
They will use that skill everyday.
You`re asking what`s the value
Of having your children play?
Your daughter`s creating a tower;
She may be a builder someday.
You`re saying you don`t want your son
To play in that "sissy" way?
He`s learning to cuddle a doll;
He may be a father someday.
You`re questioning the interest centers;
They just look like useless play?
Your children are making choices;
They`ll be on their own someday.
You`re worried your children aren`t learning;
And later they`ll have to pay?
They`re learning a pattern for learning;
For they`ll be learners always
Parents often feel that their children are not learning anything when they are "just playing." However, this is part of your child's learning experience.
There are lots of wonderful things learned when they are playing.
You say you love your children,
and are concerned they learn today?
So am I - that`s why I`m providing a variety of kinds of play.
You`re asking me the value
Of blocks and other such play?
You`re children are solving problems.
They will use that skill everyday.
You`re asking what`s the value
Of having your children play?
Your daughter`s creating a tower;
She may be a builder someday.
You`re saying you don`t want your son
To play in that "sissy" way?
He`s learning to cuddle a doll;
He may be a father someday.
You`re questioning the interest centers;
They just look like useless play?
Your children are making choices;
They`ll be on their own someday.
You`re worried your children aren`t learning;
And later they`ll have to pay?
They`re learning a pattern for learning;
For they`ll be learners always
Parents often feel that their children are not learning anything when they are "just playing." However, this is part of your child's learning experience.
There are lots of wonderful things learned when they are playing.
Block Play
WHEN YOUR CHILD BUILDS WITH BLOCKS:
She learns to use her imagination to create something from her own thinking.
She has the satisfaction of being able to make something.
She learns about sizes and shapes, weights and balances, height and depth,
smoothness and roughness.
She is exercising her body.
She learns to play with others.
She learns to use her imagination to create something from her own thinking.
She has the satisfaction of being able to make something.
She learns about sizes and shapes, weights and balances, height and depth,
smoothness and roughness.
She is exercising her body.
She learns to play with others.
Paint Time
WHEN YOUR CHILD PAINTS:
He is more concerned with the process he is going through than with a finished product.
This is how it should be for this stage in his development.
He learns about colors and how he can use them.
He learns to use his imagination and transfers his ideas to paper.
He gets emotional satisfaction from being able to express himself.
He learns how to use small muscle coordination to handle a brush.
He learns to make choices and decisions.
He is more concerned with the process he is going through than with a finished product.
This is how it should be for this stage in his development.
He learns about colors and how he can use them.
He learns to use his imagination and transfers his ideas to paper.
He gets emotional satisfaction from being able to express himself.
He learns how to use small muscle coordination to handle a brush.
He learns to make choices and decisions.
Outdoor Play Time
WHEN YOUR CHILD PLAYS ON THE OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT:
She learns how to use her body effectively.
She experiences joy in achieving a skill.
She has fun and relaxation found in bodily movement.
She learns the limitations of her body.
She learns safety and caution.
She learns to take turns and to share a piece of equipment.
She learns how to use her body effectively.
She experiences joy in achieving a skill.
She has fun and relaxation found in bodily movement.
She learns the limitations of her body.
She learns safety and caution.
She learns to take turns and to share a piece of equipment.
Housekeeping
WHEN YOUR CHILD PLAYS IN THE HOUSEKEEPING CORNER:
He learns what the roles of mothers and fathers and children are.
He understands what it feels like to play at being somebody other than himself.
He learns how to use his imagination.
He learns how to cooperate with other children.
He learns what the roles of mothers and fathers and children are.
He understands what it feels like to play at being somebody other than himself.
He learns how to use his imagination.
He learns how to cooperate with other children.
Making Gifts
WHEN YOUR CHILD MAKES A GIFT OUT OF PAPER AND PASTE:
She learns about doing things for others.
She learns how to use materials like scissors and paste/glue.
She learns how to use her imagination to make the kind of present she has in mind.
Again, the process, not the finished product, is important to her.
She learns about shapes, sizes, colors, and textures.
She learns about doing things for others.
She learns how to use materials like scissors and paste/glue.
She learns how to use her imagination to make the kind of present she has in mind.
Again, the process, not the finished product, is important to her.
She learns about shapes, sizes, colors, and textures.
Sand Table
WHEN YOUR CHILD PLAYS IN THE SAND
He finds it soothing to bury his hands in sand and pour sand in and out of cups, buckets and other containers.
He is able to relax with these types of media and center his attention on a task.
He has an opportunity to play alone and not have to compete with other children as with some activities.
This is especially important to a child who has trouble getting along with others.
He has a great opportunity to learn about size and measurement, experimenting with measuring spoons, cups and different sized containers.
He is not concerned with a final product so he does not find it frustrating.
He finds it soothing to bury his hands in sand and pour sand in and out of cups, buckets and other containers.
He is able to relax with these types of media and center his attention on a task.
He has an opportunity to play alone and not have to compete with other children as with some activities.
This is especially important to a child who has trouble getting along with others.
He has a great opportunity to learn about size and measurement, experimenting with measuring spoons, cups and different sized containers.
He is not concerned with a final product so he does not find it frustrating.
Puzzle Time
WHEN YOUR CHILD WORKS WITH PUZZLES:
She has an opportunity to work alone or together with other children
She gains satisfaction in completing a puzzle and builds her self-confidence.
She has an opportunity to improve her hand eye coordination.
She will use skills learned in doing puzzles later when she learns to read-putting letters to sounds, making words with letters, and making stories with words.
She has an opportunity to work alone or together with other children
She gains satisfaction in completing a puzzle and builds her self-confidence.
She has an opportunity to improve her hand eye coordination.
She will use skills learned in doing puzzles later when she learns to read-putting letters to sounds, making words with letters, and making stories with words.
Story Time
WHEN YOUR CHILD LISTENS TO STORIES OR LOOKS AT BOOKS:
He learns to listen.
He has an opportunity to increase his vocabulary by hearing new words read to him.
He learns about different concepts, people and places.
He learns to enjoy books and reading.
His mind is stimulated, visualizing the things he is hearing about.
He learns to listen.
He has an opportunity to increase his vocabulary by hearing new words read to him.
He learns about different concepts, people and places.
He learns to enjoy books and reading.
His mind is stimulated, visualizing the things he is hearing about.
Cooking
WHEN YOUR CHILD COOKS:
She learns to follow directions.
She stimulates and uses all five senses.
She learns to recognize colors and shapes from different kinds of foods and kitchen utensils.
She has an opportunity to use different tools and equipment to improve small muscle coordination.
She learns to follow directions.
She stimulates and uses all five senses.
She learns to recognize colors and shapes from different kinds of foods and kitchen utensils.
She has an opportunity to use different tools and equipment to improve small muscle coordination.
Music & Dance
WHEN YOUR CHILD LISTENS TO MUSIC, SINGS OR DANCES:
He learns to appreciate music from different countries, cultures, and time periods.
He learns to express himself and his ideas.
He increases his vocabulary.
He gains satisfaction from participating in an activity that can be fun, physical and/or enriching.
He learns to appreciate music from different countries, cultures, and time periods.
He learns to express himself and his ideas.
He increases his vocabulary.
He gains satisfaction from participating in an activity that can be fun, physical and/or enriching.
Manipulative Activities
WHEN YOUR CHILD USES MANIPULATIVE ACTIVITIES:
She explores new concepts, practices emerging skills, and reinforces skills already mastered.
She develops fine motor practice.
She learns about classifying, sorting, predicting, problem solving, and analyzing results.
She develops her knowledge of the world around her using real objects and concrete examples.
She learns how to learn.
She explores new concepts, practices emerging skills, and reinforces skills already mastered.
She develops fine motor practice.
She learns about classifying, sorting, predicting, problem solving, and analyzing results.
She develops her knowledge of the world around her using real objects and concrete examples.
She learns how to learn.
Computer Time
WHEN YOUR CHILD USES TECHNOLOGY AND/OR COMPUTERS:
He learns how machines work and how they can help him learn more.
He practices hand eye coordination using the mouse.
He is able to learn the processes necessary to use technology.
He learns how to express his ideas through technology and share his ideas with others.
He learns how machines work and how they can help him learn more.
He practices hand eye coordination using the mouse.
He is able to learn the processes necessary to use technology.
He learns how to express his ideas through technology and share his ideas with others.
Puppets
WHEN YOUR CHILD PLAYS WITH PUPPETS:
She is able to verbalize her feelings using words.
She can begin to understand the feelings of others.
She can role-play and perhaps find solutions to situations that may disturb her.
She stretches her imagination.
She is able to verbalize her feelings using words.
She can begin to understand the feelings of others.
She can role-play and perhaps find solutions to situations that may disturb her.
She stretches her imagination.
Value of Play Poem
There's Nothing in My Bag Today
Today I did my math and science:
I toasted bread,
I halved and quartered.
I counted, measured,
Used my eyes and ears and head.
I added and subtracted on the way,
I used a magnet, blocks and memory tray.
I learned about a rainbow and how to weigh.
So please don't say, "Is anything in your bag today?"
You see, I'm sharing as I play.
I learned to listen,
And speak clearly when I talk,
To wait my turn, and when inside to walk,
To put my thoughts into a phrase,
To guide a crayon through a maze,
To find my name and right it down,
To work with a smile and not a frown.,
To put my pasting brush away,
So please don't say, "Is anything in your bag today?"
I've learned about a snail and a worm,
Remembering how to take my turn,
Helped a friend learn when he was stuck,
Learned that water runs off a duck.
I looked at words from left to right,
Agreed to differ, not to fight.
So please don't say, "Did you only play today?"
author unknown
Today I did my math and science:
I toasted bread,
I halved and quartered.
I counted, measured,
Used my eyes and ears and head.
I added and subtracted on the way,
I used a magnet, blocks and memory tray.
I learned about a rainbow and how to weigh.
So please don't say, "Is anything in your bag today?"
You see, I'm sharing as I play.
I learned to listen,
And speak clearly when I talk,
To wait my turn, and when inside to walk,
To put my thoughts into a phrase,
To guide a crayon through a maze,
To find my name and right it down,
To work with a smile and not a frown.,
To put my pasting brush away,
So please don't say, "Is anything in your bag today?"
I've learned about a snail and a worm,
Remembering how to take my turn,
Helped a friend learn when he was stuck,
Learned that water runs off a duck.
I looked at words from left to right,
Agreed to differ, not to fight.
So please don't say, "Did you only play today?"
author unknown
"WHEN YOUR CHILD COMES HOME MESSY"
Red paint in the hair? Blue paint on the jeans? Sand in the shoes?
Peanut butter on the favorite shirt? White socks that look brown?
Sleeves a little bit damp?
YOUR CHILD probably...
worked with a friend
solved a problem
created a masterpiece
negotiated a difference
learned a new skill
had a great time
developed new language skills
YOUR CHILD probably didn't...
feel lonely
become bored
do repetitive tasks that are too babyish
do worksheet tasks that are too easy
do sit down work that is discouraging
YOU probably...
Paid good money for those clothes
Will have trouble getting the red paint out
Are concerned that the caregiver isn't paying enough attention to
your
child
THE CAREGIVER probably...
Was aware of your child's needs and interests
Spent time planning a challenging activity for the children
Encouraged the children to try new things
Put smocks on the children
Was worried that you might be concerned
*Try to remember your favorite activity when you were four years old.
Was it outdoor play with water, mud, dress up clothes, with friends?
Young children really learn when they are actively involved in play,
not when someone is talking to them. There is a difference between
"messy" and "lack of care". The caregiver made sure your child was
fed, warm, took a nap, washed hands after toileting and before eating, and
also planned messy fun things to do because that's how young
children learn!
Send your child in clothes that can get dirty! Keep extra old
clothes at the play site for times when the child gets wet or really messy.
If you need to take the child out, bring the dress up clothes and
allow time to change. Keep calm. Remember in a few years, teenagers will
use your shampoo, mirrors, and most of your towels to be clean. But
young children need time to be kids. If you have concerns, talk to your
child's caregiver about active play.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Always Remember An Act of Kindness goes a long way!!!!!!!!
It makes you and others feel good.
I love seeing happy and smiling children learning. Every day I get a chance to help children learn and smile.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Quotes from my Appelbaum Training courses
Quotes for Providers, Teachers and Parents.
Be prepared for the unexpected.
Kids, regardless of age, do the unexpected! Train yourself to remain calm. There are some situations in which you may just want to laugh to diffuse the situation. There are other situations in which you calmly need to set some boundaries. Children react to your actions and emotions.
"Your attitudes are more contagious than a cold."
Swap "C" words.
Two "C" words are "compliments" and "criticism." Children are often quick to criticize others. They need to learn how to "compliment" others. Have children practice saying nice things — compliments to others. Be a role model for this. Words have the power to build or tear down. Teach children the power of words as building tools.
Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
Have a chatter stopper.
Have a signal for children that it's time to be still. It can be something as simple as raising both hands in the air. When you raise your arms up, students stop what they are doing, and raise their arms up. It is a signal that you have something you want to tell them. Teach them ahead about the signal and have them practice it a few times before you use it.
(this can be used for many different things. If they are getting too loud, I usually will clap my hands very loud until they hear me, then tell them they are too loud.)
A laugh an hour keeps the doctor away!
To ensure that you and the kids have a wonderful day every day, take time to laugh. The more you laugh, the happier you will be. It’s awesome medicine. While laughter may not really keep all doctors away, it sure will serve as a destresser, and it's a known fact that de-stressing helps most illnesses.
Sing, sing, sing.
Singing is a great way to add joy and fun to your classroom. You can change the mood of children in seconds when you start singing. Sing songs the children know. Make up words to existing songs. Sing instructions. "It's time to clean up, clean up, clean up, quietly, quietly, quietly." If you use repetition when you sing, children will start singing along with you even though the song is made up.
There can be no deficits.
Raising and teaching kids is similar to a bank account. Each day there are opportunities for deposits or withdrawals. A deposit is something that is nurturing and that enhances the child. A withdrawal is something that depletes the child. Some of the children you teach have had so many withdrawals that a cycle has been set up so that they believe they will fail. They do not believe they can do anything right. They have come to expect they cannot learn, or that they cannot behave. These children need deposits. That is where you come in. Every day you have a new opportunity to make deposits into your students' accounts. You can ensure that there are no deficits.
Rome was not built in a day.
There are some children who make you feel like you are growing grey hair instantly! They tax you to the umpteenth limit! Be patient with those children. Set limits and follow through. Establish a caring connection. Find the child's "hook," something the child loves to do and build on it. Remember, "Rome was not built in a day," and neither does change happen in a child's life in just one day. Take it one day at a time and never give up! You can do it.
Use "Word Hugs."
There are many different ways to give hugs. You can give traditional body hugs. You can give pinky hugs for those children who like less touch. Another very special hug is a "word hug." This is when you use words to make a child feel "hugged inside" and good. Use words like, "I'm glad you're here," and "I missed you when you were absent," to show kids you care.
There is no limit on love.
When a new sibling is born, children sometimes think, "Will my parents still have love for me too?" Love is limitless. The more you love one person, the more your heart is open to loving others. Love is something that grows and grows, and the more you give it to others, the more it comes back to you.
Yes, love is limitless, and you give love to children every day. Have a great day remembering you are a difference maker.
Wisdom is a "weightless" gift.
Wisdom is a gift you give to children. They carry it with them their entire lives, and even though it weighs nothing, it transforms their lives, opening up doors of opportunity for bright futures.
Be a lightbulb.
You are like a lightbulb. You are the spark that has the ability to light up the minds and hearts of children. Your smile, your positive encouraging words, your enthusiasm, and your firm commitment to making a difference in the lives of children, all are keys to lighting up their worlds.
Don't blow a fuse!
A fuse blows when it is overloaded and so can you. Take care of yourself so you don't get overloaded. Take time to enjoy the things in life that give you pleasure, your family, your friends, and/or your hobbies. Eat well. Sleep enough. Those are all important ways to feed your own spirit. The more you are fed, the more you will be able to "feed" the minds and hearts of children.
The #1 Need of Children.
You may have thought I was going to say love. Yes, children do need love. That's essential, but there's another equally essential need that is something overlooked in homes. That need is structure. Structure means having a routine and being consistent. It helps children feel safe and secure to know that even if they feel chaotic, the adults in their lives are not. Think about young children in child care and lunch time. If lunch is served even 5-minutes late, the children know it. It is a disruption in their routine. They may act out.
Structure helps children know what to expect and when to expect it.
Be resilient.
When you bounce a ball, it bounces back. It is resilient. You have to be resilient too. Working with kids can have its trying moments. Life itself can have its trying moments, but you always have to remember to bounce back. At any time, you can choose to start your day over again with a smile and enthusiasm. Keep your bounce. You are an important person in the lives of children.
You are a difference maker.
Look for the small things.
Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in everything that is happening so much that you can forget to slow down and look at the small things that bring you joy. Did a child smile at you today? Did you get to soothe a child that was upset? Those are all things that can bring you joy.
Savor the moments. They are gifts.
Look inside.
Have you ever seen a house from the outside and the doors and windows were all sealed tight so you couldn't see inside? When this happens, you don't know what it looks like inside. There may be lots of wonderful treasures inside. It's the same with children. Look beyond inappropriate behaviors of children. Look inside to see their true selves and find the treasure. You may find a wonderful sleeping personality within, just waiting to be awakened.
Giving directions to children
Have you ever given directions to children, and felt like they didn't hear you. It may be that your directions didn’t incorporate individual learning styles. Some children will "get it" just from "hearing" your words. Others need you to provide a visual that clearly "shows" them what you want. Still others are tactile, and need you to show them "hands on" what you want.
A child's smile is worth "riches."
There are some children that light up your heart when they smile. They make you feel good, warm and fuzzy inside. You can't take that smile to the store and exchange it for groceries, but you sure can put it inside the memory box of your mind to open up on rainy or tough days. That is one of the many perks of working with children.
You are a strong role model for children.
You give them hope, encouragement, and love. They listen to your words and watch your actions, and it makes a lasting impression. Thank you for what you do. You are a difference maker
Children thrive on structure.
Children need routine, consistency, and order in their lives. They need to know what is going to happen and when it is going to happen. Establish a routine. If there is going to be a change, let them know ahead of time. When you say something, follow through. Children thrive when they know what to expect and feel loved.
Use your words wisely.
One of the sayings that I believe applies to all people, is to be careful what you say, so that you never say anything for which you will have to apologize later. If everyone lived their life this way, the world would be a better place. Stop and think before you speak to children. Every word you say makes a difference. If you are upset, take time to become calm before speaking. At the end of the day, review in your mind what you have said, and if you slipped and said something that may have hurt the feelings of a child, apologize the next day. Children will remember this, and learn from it and respect you even more.
Respect
Children do not instinctively know how to show respect for others. It is a skill that needs to be taught. Here are some ways to teach children to be respectful.
1) When you say something, follow through. They will learn to respect that you mean what you say.
2) Show respect to children and adults. Children will copy you.
3) Teach children how to use respectful words like "thank-you," and "please."
4) When children get into conflicts with each other, give each child an opportunity to be heard while the other child listens.
1440 Chances.
There are 1440 minutes in each day. That means there are 1440 chances to make a difference. Even though each day may seem somewhat the same in routine; in reality, each day is different. Each day there will be different smiles at different moments, different situations that occur with children, and each day will have 1440 minutes that are yours to use to make a difference.
Today as you enjoy the gift of your 1440 ordinary minutes – take the time to make many of those minutes extra-ordinary. Do something for yourself. Do something for others—students, their parents, co-workers, your own family. Turn the ordinary into extra-ordinary so that you build memories that will forever transform lives.
Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
Children with special needs.
It seems like more and more children have special needs. There are so many different types of special needs. The important thing is to be aware, and to accommodate the children who need the extra help.
Some children can't do things for themselves. They need your help. They need to be nurtured and carefully tended. You can't always see the special needs of children on the outside, but on the inside, they need mending. Some children come into the classrooms with broken hearts. They don't understand why their parents are not together anymore. Some children think it's their faults. Some children miss a family member that is away. Some feel abandoned. Some are dealing with loss, the loss of a pet or a family member. Some are dealing with even bigger loss, the loss of self-esteem, when they think they can't do something that it seems like everyone else can do. Some children have been diagnosed with special needs and feel different. They feel like everyone is looking at them differently. Handle these children with care. On the outside, they may be covering up their special needs with scowls and "walls," but on the inside, they may be shivering and scared and lonely. Take it slowly. Be gentle. Look for how you can accommodate those special needs. Your understanding, patience, and caring will make a huge difference.
A laugh an hour.
When I grew up, I heard the saying that "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." I'm not sure if that is true, but I do know that a laugh an hour keeps the classroom a joyful place. Try it and watch the difference it will make.
Words of Wisdom
"Level with your child by always being honest. Nobody spots a phony quicker than a child."
~Mary MacCracken
Take care of yourself.
As you wind down the week today, remember to take time this week-end to give to yourself. You give to your child all week long. Take time to give to yourself also. A car cannot run when the gas tank is empty. You also cannot run when you are empty. Take time this week-end to fill back up. You are an important person. You are a difference maker.
Bored children misbehave.
One of the reasons that children misbehave is they become bored. It's important to keep children actively engaged with fun things to do.
(I always say, "A Busy Child is a Happy Child")
Children need boundaries.
Children need the security of having boundaries. It prepares them for the real adult world. The world is full of boundaries. There are written and unwritten rules. People know that if they go into a store and take something off a shelf without paying for it, they will get in trouble. They know that when they go through a stop sign or a red light, they will get in trouble. When you set boundaries, you are teaching children a valuable lesson they need in life. They learn to have freedom within limits.
Follow through.
When you say something to a child, follow through. If you sometimes follow through, and other times, do not, children are never sure of which times you WILL follow through, and they will test limits more and more.
(This is so important)
You build bridges to the future.
There are those that contribute money to causes and make a difference in this way. There are others who are contributors by inventing things and helping change the world. These are people like Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell. You may not get your name in history books or be internationally famous, but every day, you get to make a contribution to the world! Your contribution is to help build a better world for children. You build bridges to the future. You are a difference maker.
Be all you want kids to be.
Children learn, not only from what you teach them, but from watching you and who you are. Do you get so busy you don't take time for yourself? That is what children learn. Do you lose your temper? That's what kids will learn. Do you eat healthy foods? That's what children will see and copy. Do you speak in a caring way about those important people in your life? That is what children will learn.
Do you love to learn new things? Are you an optimistic type of person? Everything you are and do, children may copy. You are a role model at all times. Be all you want the children you teach to be.
Avoid the word, "don't."
The word, "don't," is usually followed by a verb. "Don't run." "Don't do that." When you say, "Don't," children hear and respond to the action word that follows it. When they hear, "don't run," the word that stands out for them is "RUN!" If you want children to listen, instead, tell them what you want them to do. "Jordan, I need you to walk slowly."
Have smile-alongs.
I have been talking about doing acts of kindness. One of the greatest acts of kindness is helping someone smile. One way to do this is to have smile-alongs. You have probably heard of singalongs. A smile-along is similar. Everyone participates that wants to participate. Children tell funny jokes or stories or do acts of kindness that make others smile. When the first person smiles, a picture is held up of a big smile, and everyone in the class smiles. They then go back to what they were doing happier because they have had their smile-along. It's a wonderful bonding tool for classrooms and families. It also helps children learn to pass along their smiles as encouragement and joy to others helping spread "The Kindness Movement."
(I have a happy face on a craft stick and sometimes I just walk around and show each child the happy face and they know when I do this to SMILE!!!)
It's okay to dream.
Encourage Children to dream big. It's all about choices. Make the right choice and good things will happen.
There are some children who grow up not knowing that they too can dream. Encourage children to work hard toward fulfilling goals. Teach them that life is filled with choices, and guide them to believe in themselves as you believe in them
Avoid "don't."
When children hear the word, "don't," and it is followed by a verb, they only hear the verb, and continue the behavior. For example, when children hear, "Don't run," they run because they tune out the "don't." Instead tell children what you DO want them to do. "I need you to walk." Avoid negative talk. Use positive reinforcement.
Children need someone with a GPS.
More and more cars have a GPS that guides the drivers in the right direction to find a location. Children too need a GPS. They need guidance and direction. This guidance comes in many forms. It is having a routine for them to follow so they always know what to expect. It is rules. It is clear directions. Your guidance guides them so they are never lost and leads them on the path to success.
Kindness rocks!!
Do you know the good feeling you get in your heart when a child gives you that special hug? Or have you felt that good feeling when someone you love, turns around, sees you and gives you that special acknowledgement? All of those are examples of kindness that is shared. Kindness and love are synonymous. It takes a loving heart to be kind and caring.
"In the eyes of a child ... you are the world."
Here is a neat thing to always remember, especially on days you are feeling tired or overwhelmed. You may feel that you are only one person in the world in the life of a child, but to that child, you may be the whole world.
Anger Rules
Teach children anger rules.
Here are some good rules:
It's ok to be angry, but:
Do not hurt someone
Do not hurt yourself
Do not hurt property
Do talk about it.
Dance
I like to be silly and laugh and sing and even dance. Kids love it when you dance and are silly. They don't care if you don't dance well. Just get up, make up a little song, make up some dance steps and dance. You sure will hold the attention of children.
It's an original.
When people talk about paintings, they will sometimes say, "It's an original," meaning that it's really from an artist. It's not a copy.
The same is true for children. They sure are each "original." They each have their own looks, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It's important when teaching children that you preserve the "original," and bring forth the great qualities that each child has.
Enjoy the detour.
Sometimes when in a car, you will come to a road that has been closed. You have to take a detour to get to your destination. You have no choice about taking the detour. It's the only way to go. But you do have a choice; will be happy and enjoy the scenery along the way or, will you feel frustrated.
It's the same with children. Things come up, and sometimes you have to take a detour. You have to change the route you were going to travel to get to the same destination that you planned for the children. Just like with the real road, you have a choice in how you feel. Choose to enjoy the detour, and stay focused on your ultimate destination which is always making a difference for children and spreading kindness and caring.
There are "unopened gifts."
This is a time of year where people are thinking about buying gifts. It made me think about the gifts inside of each child. Every child has his or her own individual talents. Go on a treasure hunt and find the gifts.
Remember the "little bird."
There once was a cute little bird that lived in a cage. He ate in his little cage, and flapped his little wings and flew around the cage. He was a happy little bird. One day, after years of living in the cage, his owners thought it would be neat to let the little bird out of the cage to fly around. They opened the cage door, and he looked at the door for a long time. He even stood near it, but he didn't want to leave the familiarity of his cage. When he finally left the cage, they expected him to be happy but he became frantic as he flew into walls.
There is a moral to this story, and that is, that change is hard. Just as it was hard for the little bird, it is very hard on children. Prepare children ahead of time for any changes that will happen. Tell them about it, and then give them time to adjust.
Recordings of the Brain
Children have invisible recorders in their brains recording everything that they see and hear. There are some things that they record that can forever affect them. These include: 1) An unkind word or look, after it is done; 2) An occasion, after it's missed; and 3) A promise, after it is broken.
Today and always, fill the recordings of children's brains with positive wonderful words, gestures, looks, and memories giving them treasures to remember and carry with them forever.
"I'll think about it."
When a child gets argumentative and wants an immediate answer to something, calmly say to the child, "I understand. I'll think about it." Children feel acknowledged that you understand them, and will think about what they wanted. It takes the heat off the issue at the moment and allows the child to calm down.
"I love you."
When I look around in stores, I see cards and gifts for sale to express wishes and thoughts for Valentine's Day. It's neat to have a special day to share gifts and cards on Valentine's Day. The important thing to remember about this special day is that the greatest gift you can give someone you love is not always a physical present, but the best present of all, your caring and loving words, like "You're special." "You're important to me." "I love you so much."
Nice Words are very impotant too.
Use "put-ups."
A "put-up" is the opposite of a "put-down." Put-downs are critical words that make children feel badly. Children use "put-downs" often in their communication. They may learn to do this from watching television or from other children & adults. The problem with "put-downs" is that they are cumulative. After awhile, the child who hears them begins to believe them. The more a child thinks that he or she is bad, the more the child will act the part. "Put-ups" are words that boost children to success. Teach children to use "put-ups" — words that make others feel better. Wouldn't it be a better world if our political leaders and media used more "put-ups" than "put-downs?" It all has to begin somewhere. Your classroom is the beginning of building a better more respectful world for everyone.
Turn off "auto-pilot."
Sometimes, your life can get so busy that you go on "auto-pilot" doing everything you have to do without even thinking about it. There are problems with doing this. First, each day has its own special moments that have gifts, like a child's huge smile, another child having a break-through learning something new. Those are times you don't want to miss. You want to be right in the moment to enjoy these gifts.
Another important time to turn off "auto-pilot" is when a child misbehaves. If you are on "auto-pilot," when a child misbehaves, you may do what you have always done that never ever works, instead of trying something new that may work.
Kids can "play you" to get what they want.
Last week I was in a restaurant, and there was a child loudly crying for a long time. I decided to check out the situation to see if I could help. As I approached the table, I saw it was a parent and an older toddler. When the child saw me, he immediately turned of the tears. It was like an instant "off." He was "playing his mom" to get what he wanted.
It made me think about how kids can do this. It's important to remain calm. The more your react, the more children will act out, and it can become a game for them in which they learn to get what they want. Be sure to stay strong. Be consistent. The more you give in, the more children will do this.
Playing and learning go together for young children.
Playing is really important for children. It is how they learn. It helps them develop socially, cognitively, emotionally. It teaches them to have fun while learning. Music is a neat way to bring out children's playfulness. Music can also teach children to be playful while following the directions in a song.
Avoid, "Why?"
A question that it's best to avoid is "Why did you do that?" Most of the time children do not know "why" they did it. If they do know, they may feel that they have to tell a falsehood to get out of trouble. A better thing to say is, "Let's talk about what happened." Sit down one-to-one with the child, and be a good listener, nodding your head as the child talks about what happened. When the child is finished, set a boundary if needed. "Wes, I need you to know that you may never do that again."
Children need both love and limits.
Children need a combination of love and limits. They must have love in order to thrive. It fills their hearts and souls and gives them confidence in themselves. But what can be missing in some homes that is also necessary are limits. They need to know the rules, the boundaries of what they can do and what they cannot do. It prepares them for life. Life has rules. For example, when you go into a store and put things into a cart, you have to pay for those items. That's a rule. So too, do homes and classrooms need rules (limits). It helps children feel secure and safe.
One size does not fit all.
The reason is that one size does not fit all. Every child is different, so a strategy that works for one child, will not necessarily work for another child. Every teacher is different, so what feels comfortable for one teacher, may not feel comfortable for another teacher.
Make a T-Sign
When children get argumentative, it's important to not argue with them or defend yourself. Stay calm. Make a T-Sign using both of your hands that means STOP. Tell them ahead that when you make that signal, it means that all talking stops. Have them practice.
Anger is one letter away from danger.
It's very important when you get angry and upset, to calm down before you speak to children. Some strategies you can use to get calm include: Picture someone or something you love; Take some deep breaths; Say to yourself, "I am getting calm, calm, calm."
Children look to you as their role model. When they see you practicing self-control, they will learn how to do it too. You make a huge difference in the lives of children. You are a difference maker.
You are like a musical conductor.
A musical conductor brings together different people who all play different instruments, and the conductor's goal is to have them all playing beautiful music in harmony. You have a classroom of diverse children who all have different learning styles and different needs. Yet, you too are like a conductor. You help them all become a "class family," nurturing and caring for each other, in harmony. The sounds of children playing and learning are like beautiful music.
Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
One person can make a difference.
Last week I went into a small clothing store to exchange a gift I had received. It's a store I like, and I have shopped there before. I went into the store excited and happy. There was a new manager there, someone I had never seen. She was very curt and actually rude. It sure didn't make me want to ever go back. It made me think about how one person can make a difference, and the difference can be either positive or negative.
You are an important person in the lives of children. Things may not always go as well in your own personal life, but it's important that kids never see that. Children need to feel welcome at all times. One of my favorite little expressions about working with children is to leave your problems outside the door, and go in and have fun. The problems will probably still be waiting for you when you go home, but you will be in a better mood because you will have had a good day.
Have a great day making a difference in the lives of children and spreading kindness.
Home away from home.
Children have more than one home. They have their regular homes in which they live. Your classroom is another home. Children need to have their classroom be a special place, a "home away from home," a place they feel safe, cared for, and learn and grow. That is what you do. You are a difference maker.
5 Emotional Needs of Children
They are
1) love
2) structure
3) wisdom
4) involvement
5) fun.
Keep in mind those 5 important needs.
I wish for you:
Sunshine in your heart, no matter what
the weather is outdoors.
The gift of friends and family surrounding
you this holiday season.
Safety and ease and fun in your travels,
either in or out of town.
The joy of the miracles from this season
awakening something special within you.
The love of this holiday season, entering
all aspects of your life & those you love.
Good food, fun, laughter, cheer, and God's
blessings in your life and in the lives of
all those you love.
Let’s all work together to keep the kindness movement going, and help children to learn to be kind to others. Together, we can and will build bridges to a wonderful world for our children.
Children and Lies
A lie is almost always a form of self-protection. There are other reasons that children tell lies, including: 1) To be liked more; 2) To get attention; 3) To avoid punishment; 4) To avoid tasks they don’t want to do; 5) To make a parent or teacher happy; and 6) To pretend something they want is true.
There are several things you can do when children lie. First and foremost is to always tell the truth yourself. You are a role model for them. Secondly, when a child makes up a big story, simply say, "Wow, that showed imagination. Now let's talk about what really happened."
Have a great day. Be sure and encourage acts of kindness in your children. You are a difference maker.
You are an artist.
You are like an artist. Artists spread dabs of paint all over a canvas to create their beautiful paintings. You spread dabs too, dabs of love, laughter, learning, sunshine, manners, boundaries, structure, and fun. You create masterpieces that live on into the future with the gifts you give to children.
Fill up.
The more you do it, the more others around you will do it, and it's like being part of a "Happy Club."
Dust it off.
Children need to learn self-control. A strategy for young children is to have a feather duster available. When children are upset, have them get the feather duster, and "dust off" anger until they feel better.
Older children need to learn self-control too. A strategy for them is the S and B. "S" stands for STOP and "B," stands for BREATHE DEEPLY.
Make deposits.
A child's mind is like a bank in which you make daily deposits every day of precious treasures. The results of your deposits are carried into the minds and hearts of children into their futures.
Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
Use music to create joy.
Music can totally change the moods of children and adults. My favorite songs for young children are ones that include movement and singing.
Have a relaxation station.
Children need a special place they can go when they are feeling stressed. Set up a special place with comfy pillows and/or a rocking chair. Have a limit, only one child at a time. For those children that might take advantage and stay too long, have a timer, so that children know how long they can stay. This is their cozy relaxation station, and they go there voluntarily when they feel angry or upset. While there, teach them to take deep breaths to help them relax.
Children need to know they are loved, no matter what.
Children need to know they are loved at all times. They are loved when they behave appropriately and they are loved when they behave inappropriately.
When children hear they are "bad," they start thinking of themselves as bad and unlovable. When a child misbehaves, rather than tell the child what the child did that was wrong, tell the child what you want him/her to do. In other words, use it as a teaching opportunity to teach the child appropriate behaviors. Here's an example, "Jordan, I need you to do ……. Thank you." Use a low deep voice and be at the child's level when speaking.
Be careful of TV.
When I worked as a teacher, I noticed an interesting phenomenon. When children came into class wearing t-shirts with pictures of their TV superheroes, they behaved differently. I started reading studies on children and TV, and the results were, that if children watched TV with killings and cartoon characters beating each other up, they were more likely to engage in the same behavior.
Be careful with TV and children. The characters on TV can become the role models for children. If you are a teacher, feel free to share this message with parents. When parents come in from work tired, it's easy to turn on the television and have it become a babysitter for children while dinner is cooking. It would be better if the child was involved in helping with dinner preparations, but if television is needed, there are good TV programs that are non-violent or DVD's or streaming they can do of programs that are educational.
What's really important?
It's so easy to get caught up in the fast pace of life that the things that are really important can be skimmed or missed. For those of us who work with or raise children, we know some really important things. Those include being there for important events; smiles and encouragement when children need that extra boost; and tender loving times at family meals, and bedtimes. They also include being totally present when a child is talking so you can really hear what the child is saying. It includes setting those tough boundaries and following through, even when you want to give in, but you don’t because you know it's really best for the child to have those boundaries.
What else is really important is to know that because you are there for children, the world will have a brighter future because you are a difference maker.
Everyone that works with children is a winner.
Every one of you that works with children is a winner. You may not win an IPad, a t-shirt, or a book, but you win something precious every day. You win smiles, hugs and seeing the accomplishments of children. You win the satisfaction of not giving up on a child, and seeing the day come when there is finally progress.
Have a great day. You are a winner and a difference maker.
Talking about Favorites
One of the complaints that teachers and parents have is that a child doesn't talk to them. It isn't that the children are non-verbal, it's just that they aren't talking to the adults in their lives.
Here are some ways to have children talk:
1) Set aside special listening time. If it's one child, then have it be one-on-one time. If it's an entire class, have it be a special regularly scheduled time.
2) Ask children to talk about their favorites. It can be about their favorite pets, favorite songs, or anything else that you think will be a great conversation started; and
3) Listen, really listen. Nod your head so they can sense your interest.
Love and limits.
Children need a combination of love and limits to thrive. Teaching and parenting children is like using a balancing beam. If it is tipped too much in one direction, the person may fall off. It's the same with children. If they have just love and no limits, they are not prepared for the real world. They don't learn to respect boundaries and others. If they have too many limits and no love, they grow up feeling unlovable to others and to themselves. Children need both—love and limits.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
There is a saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. I'm not sure if that is true, but I do know something that IS true. "A tidbit of strategies a day keeps children's misbehaviors away." It's so easy to get complacent and to keep doing the same things with children even if they don't seem to work. When you learn new strategies and implement different ones, you will better succeed with children. It works.The more you have to choose from, the more you will find the perfect fit that works for you. The important thing is to never give up, and to keep looking for just the right "tidbit" that will work and keep the misbehavior away."
Time flies.
Even though some days seem long because there is so much to do, and it seems like so little time to do it, the truth is that time flies. Before you know it, little children grow up and become adults and go on their way. You can't stop time. What you can do is take time to enjoy the special things and people in your life. Today when a child smiles, take a few extra seconds to enjoy that smile even more. If you hear a child say something sweet, take time to savor the moment. These are all precious gifts that can never "fly away" no matter how much time flies. They are your memories to last with you forever.
Power Struggles and Kids.
One of the reasons that children engage in power struggles is because they work. They have learned that if they hold out long enough, they can get whatever they want. It's therefore really important that children don't get what they want when they misbehave. If you have a child that gets argumentative, stay calm. Give the child 2 positive choices. Say, "I understand you want that. Here's what you can do. You can …. or ….. Which do you prefer?" This empowers the child to have a choice in something more appropriate, and generally ends the struggle.
Patience Plus
Children can and will try your patience. It's important to always remain calm. They learn how to handle their own emotions from watching how you handle yours. You need patience "plus." That means you need to be patient plus have calming techniques to help you stay that way. There are ways to instantly calm down when you are frustrated and feel ready to "pop." One of my favorites is to picture someone or something that is calming for you. It is amazing how quickly that can calm you down. Another strategy is to take deep breaths in and out and use self-talk while breathing. "I am calmer. I am calmer. I am calm now."
Children with Special Needs.
More and more children are being diagnosed with special needs. If you have children with special needs in your class, start first by knowing that all children have some of the same needs. All children need to feel loved, cared for, and cherished. All children need to have structure, limits and routine. All children need to feel involved and part of a class and/or family, and that their choices are important. All children need to have wonderful role models who demonstrate, through their actions and words, what children need to learn. All children need to have fun, to laugh, to smile, and to enjoy their daily activities. Children with special needs need all of these, and they also need accommodations made especially for them that doesn't make them feel different, but instead, special and unique and cared for. Remember also, that children who have special needs, have parents with some other special needs. While all parents need to know that you are caring for their children wisely and lovingly, parents of children with special needs, may need extra reassurance.
Ultimately, it is your loving care that makes all children and parents feel special. Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
It just takes time.
If you can remember learning to drive a car, it took time to learn how to do it. Now you probably get into your car, and you don’t even think about all the things you have to do to make it run. It’s the same with working with children. Some children are easy. They get things right away when you teach them. Others take time. You have to be very patient with those children. Every child has his or her own learning style. The important thing is to not give up and to keep trying until you succeed.
You build bridges to the future.
This past Sunday, was Oscar time. There was a huge audience watching. I could not help but think about you and the work you do with children. Your work includes being a producer, director, choreographer, supporter in so many roles, as you strive to make a difference in the lives of children. Of course, there are no academy awards given out to teachers; unless it is for someone playacting. You are not play-acting. You are the real deal. You are building bridges to the future.
"Patience makes perfect."
There is a saying that "practice makes perfect." Remember that children learn from what you do as much as from what you say. If they see you are reactive, they learn to be reactive. You are a role model at all times. Take time to get calm. If you make a mistake, be patient with yourself too. Working with children can be tough. The important thing is to learn from your mistakes, so you get it right. Patience makes perfect.
Do something.
"Do something. If it works, do it some more. If it doesn't work, do something else." Those same words are true with children when they behave inappropriately. It's easy to get stuck into doing the same thing each time, even though it doesn't work. Instead, shift to a new positive behavior strategy. If that doesn't work, try something else. Keep going until you find the best strategy.
Be consistent. Follow Through.
When you say something, follow through. That's sometimes hard to do, and children know that. They will test you to your limits. Remember that if you don't follow through, children will. They will keep engaging in inappropriate behavior. It takes strength and patience to follow through and be consistent. You can do it. You are a difference maker.
Open minds, open hearts.
I love the words in the heading. That is what teachers do for children. Every day you get a golden opportunity to open the minds of children to new learning experiences. With your love and caring, you open their hearts to give and to receive love.
Cheer them on.
Everyone needs to know there is someone in their corner, someone who is rooting for them to succeed. That person is there in good times and in bad times. That person never gives up on them. That is what kids need ... a supportive person to be there for them, rain or shine.
"You can do it."
Those are powerful words to say to a child. Children sometimes don’t know their own capabilities. Everyone needs someone to be there for them rooting in their corner.
Recipe for Success with Children.
Across the country, teachers are returning to their classrooms. Starting today, I am going to feature some tips each day for getting off to a great start for the new school year.
• Add three spoons of Prevention that includes
boundaries and consistency;
• Add one cup of Caring.
• Blend together, stirring and adding more Caring
and Prevention as needed.
• Then sit back and enjoy the results, adding more
of these ingredients as needed.
Reporting versus tattling.
Teach children the difference between tattling and telling. Tattling is to get someone in trouble. Reporting is to help someone. It’s important to encourage children to report to you, when they or someone they know is in trouble.
If this room could talk ...
When you first wake up in the morning and see your room, here are some things to reflect on when working with children. Feel free to print it and pass it to others.
* The door says: Open the doors to love
and learning for children.
* The walls say: Remember that inside the outer
appearance of each child is someone special.
* The fan says: Stay cool.
* The window says: Look out at all times to be careful with what you say & do with children.
* The dresser says: Wear clothes that make you
feel good. The better you feel, the better you
will be with children.
* The clock says: The moments pass quickly,
so enjoy each moment with children.
* The bed says: Take time to get enough rest
so you are at your best with children.
You are THE EXAMPLE.
Children copy what you do more than what you say. If you want children to behave a certain way, let them see you doing it too.
It's a huge responsibility taking care of children. Be sure to take care of yourself too. One of the things I have found is that the more you take care of yourself, getting enough sleep, eating right, taking time for outside interests, the more energy you will bring into taking care of children.
Children and Change.
Changes can be very tough on children. They like structure and routine. When things change, they sometimes change too. They act out to show that they do not like the change.
Prepare children ahead if there is going to be a change in schedule or routine. Implement changes gradually. If possible, have them role play the changes that will occur. For example, if you are a teacher and will have a substitute, have them role play with you pretending to be someone else. If you are a parent expecting a new baby, set up a little baby bed, and put a doll in it and role play having the new baby in the house.
Teach children self-control.
Children need to learn self-control. A strategy I love is to teach younger children, to push the pause button. Have a remote control. When children are upset, they get the remote, push the pause button, and breathe deeply until they are calm.
Love and limits go together.
It can be hard to set limits and follow through, but it is the loving thing to do. Children need limits as much as they need love. Setting limits means having boundaries — rules and following through. If you don't follow through, children will.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T.
One of the best ways to have children respect you is that you are consistent. When you say something, follow through. Children learn that you mean what you say.
Today's child is tomorrow's future.
Every day that you work with children is an opportunity. What you say, what you do, how you say it, all will impact that child. You are a difference maker.
The opposite of bullying is kindness.
Being kind to others doesn't come naturally for most children. It is a value that needs to be taught. Involve children in doing acts of kindness for others so they can see the wonderful way it feels. Show them that they receive as much as they give, it will help them learn to be kind. A good way to teach children to be kind is to have a kindness theme. Every time children do acts of kindness, acknowledge the act.
Sometimes a symbol is good as a reminder to be kind.
*I have the Caring Tree and each child gets a leaf to place on the tree when do do something nice for others.
Music makes a difference.
Music has the ability to change a person's mood in seconds. If children feel antsy, just play a catchy tune with lots of movement, and have the children join in singing and acting out the words of the song.
The more you give, the more you receive.
There's something about the act of giving to others that makes you feel good. You, who work with children, already know that no matter how exhausting your work may be at times, it still can make you feel so good. Knowing that you are helping children is a great feeling. Knowing that you make a difference for others makes you feel better.
Give a boost. (A great story)
There are so many children who need a boost. They need that little or big extra boost that can make all the difference in their lives. Jordan was one of those children that needed a boost. His dad had left before he was even born. His mom had been an addict and died on the streets. His grandmother Tillie was raising him. She was exhausted and not in the best of health. Jordan had a history of misbehaving and of not doing well in school. This all changed when he got his new teacher, Jean Wilson. Jean had grown up in poverty and had to overcome a lot to become a teacher. She was determined to help others, and she saw that Jordan desperately needed help. She told him the first days in her class, "Jordan, I want you to know that I care. I will be there for you, and I will make sure that you learn. You are important to me." No one had ever told Jordan that he was important to them. Over the course of weeks and months, Jordan saw that she meant her words. She really did care. Little by little, Jordan changed. He started to look forward to coming to school.
Jean did something else. She reached out and gave a boost to Jordan's grandmother, Grandma Tillie. She told Grandma Tillie that she really cared about Jordan and would do her best to help him succeed. Together, they became a team of two cheerleaders for Jordan.
You too can make a life-altering difference for children. Reach out and give that extra boost.
Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
Kindness lives on.
It is so sad to hear stories of kids and adults that have been bullied. Just last week I saw a video on YouTube that had gone viral made by a 15-year-old who ended her life after she made the video. This has to stop. The first and best way to stop it is to teach kids how to be kind. Start young by reinforcing all acts of kindness. Say "no" to bullying types of behavior. Bullying can kill, but kindness lives on.
A job that is never done.
Most parents have a 24-7 workday. If children get sick, even if parents are exhausted from a long workday, they almost always will get up in the middle of the night, if needed, and do what needs to be done to help their children get well. When children start school, parents often think they can breathe a sigh of relief, but then there are teacher-parent meetings, afterschool activities, and staying involved in the lives of their children. When children grow up and go away to school, parents are their source of strength and stability, even if they are in two different locations. When children have their own children, parents get a whole new role of being a grandparent and also being there for their children.
When people get married, they say they will stay together in sickness and in health. The truth is that many marriages fail, but what doesn't fail in most cases, is the love a parent has for a child, in "sickness and in health," a parent's job is always there.
Many of you are teachers, and you know that your job is also never done. You are the ones that pick up the pieces in those cases in which parents don't follow through. You are the backbone of nations, building futures and brighter tomorrows.
Have a great day. You are a difference maker.
Kindness Kids.
Talk with children about acts of kindness. Demonstrate some ways to be kind. Tell the children that you want to call them, “The Kindness Kids.” Kindness kids are kids that do acts of kindness for others. Share some ways children can be kind to others.
Keep having hope.
When working with children keep having hope, even when the going gets tough. Children need you to believe in them. If you are have been doing one thing…going down a road, and you hit a dead end, do the same thing you would do in a car. Don't stop. Simply back up and head down a different path. Keep going until you find the right path to help children. The important thing is to never give up.
Paint a Masterpiece.
When artists paint, they use bold strokes, medium strokes, and tiny strokes. Together, all of the strokes create a wonderful finished product—their masterpiece. It is the same with teaching. There are times you have to be bold, and there are other times that you have to settle for tiny little strokes—tiny bits of progress. Your masterpiece lies in the futures of the children you teach.
Columbus and Discoveries
Today is Columbus Day. Christopher Columbus was a great adventurer reaching out to explore distant shores. Children need to make discoveries too. They need the sense of wonder that comes from discovering something as they learn. They need that sense of achievement when they reach for and attain far-away goals in learning.
One of the many neat benefits of being a teacher and/or parent is watching children's faces as they make new discoveries and knowing you helped play a part in this.
Expressing Feelings.
Children need to learn how to express their feelings appropriately. If they don't express them, they become like a can of soda that has been shaken up. When you open the lid of the soda can, it can POP!
Talk about feelings with children.
Show them the facial expressions and body language to identify different feelings, like a frown means you are "upset." Teach them to use words to express those feelings. Teach them self-calming strategies like deep breathing.
How to Hold the Attention of Children
Be really dramatic to hold the attention of children. Use props. Add mystery.
Make deposits.
On payday, some people rush to the bank to make a deposit. There is another form of deposit that is very important. A child's mind is like a bank into which you make deposits ... deposits of learning. A child's heart is like a bank into which you can make deposits ... deposits of love. These are deposits into the child's future.
Power Struggle
When a child tries to get into a power struggle, don't go there. Instead, calmly offer the child 2 positive choices. "Jeremy, you can do ________ or ___________. Which do you choose?"
Sunshine skies.
It's autumn and there may not always be sunshine skies outside. However, you can help create sunshine skies inside. It just takes one kind sentence to change a child's day from feeling like everything is wrong, and the world is a gray place to sunshine skies.
Sunshine skies are made out of words of encouragement, words of hope, and words of love.
The flu is contagious
and so is something else. This is the time of year that many people talk about taking flu shots because the flu is so contagious. Something that is even more contagious is your mood. It's especially contagious to children. They can "catch" your mood in an instant.
If you are having a bad day, kids can "catch it in an instant." When working with kids, leave your problems outside on the doorstep. Go inside and have a great time. At the end of the day, your problems will be waiting for you, but you will have a lighter heart because you have had a good day with the children.
"I can do it."
Here's a neat little song to the tune of "Are you Sleeping?" The words are:
I can do it. I can do it. Yes, I can. Yes, I can.
I can do anything. I can do anything. Yes I can.
Yes, I can.
It's a neat song to teach kids to sing to remember that they can try new things. It's also a good song for you to sing to yourself on tough days.
Stay in control.
One of the biggest tricks of teaching is to stay in charge and still give the children freedom. The goal is freedom within limits. Without limits, classrooms and homes can become chaotic. Children need structure. They need the safety that comes from knowing there are boundaries on what they can and cannot do.
Sharing
If you have children who do not want to share and hurt other children when it's time to take turns, here are some things you can do:
1) If kids fight over the same toy over and over, put the toy away.
2) Teach children to take turns. Make it into a fun game. Ex. Ring a little bell, & children stop what they are doing, & say in a funny voice, "Yay, it's your turn."
3) Set a limit on how long children can use something.
Time Away Toy
When kids fight over an object, one solution is to put the object in a special place called “Time Away.”
When you return the object, set some boundaries on its use.
Give the present of "presence."
There are children who receive all kinds of tangible gifts like cell phones, electronic games, laptops, and TV's. There are also children who receive "gifts" like privileges, getting to do things they want to do. But some of these children may be missing out on some one of the greatest gifts. That gift is the gift of presence. Presence means taking time to listen to children, really listen. It also means spending quality time with children.
Some of the children you teach may receive presents without presence at home. Those children need the gift of presence too. That's one of the many gifts you give to children. Your present is your presence.
Every fingerprint is different.
It is so amazing to think about how every person in this huge world has a different fingerprint. The fact that fingerprints are all different is a great lesson in understanding that all people are different in so many ways. No one fits in a "box." This is especially true if you work with children. Every child is different, special in his or her own unique way. Many children compare themselves to others, thinking that there is a "right" way to be. They think this is the way to be popular, to have friends.
Teach children that they are not the same. They each have their own individual and unique fingerprints, and to respect each other's uniqueness.
Super Bowl Lessons.
There's lots of buzz right now about the Super Bowl this week-end. One team will emerge the winner, and the other team will lose. The winning team will get lots of accolades.
The Super Bowl made me think about kids. All children need to hear good things about themselves. When doing things with children, put emphasis on the PROCESS rather than the PRODUCT so all children feel good.
This Sunday, if you are one of the millions of fans watching and cheering, take time to think of the children in your class and/or home that also may need some cheering. Set a goal to help all children feel good about themselves. You are a difference maker.
Patience is an Asset.
An important quality when working with children is to have patience. Children need you to be patient even though there are times when their behaviors can be frustrating. Find ways to calm yourself down. Count to 10. Take deep breaths. Take a few seconds to regroup by thinking about something or someone special in your life.
When you feel calm, that’s the time to talk.
Go the distance.
I talked about an important "P" word for children, patience. Another important word that begins with the letter "P," is persistence. It's important that you never give up on children. Some children take longer to learn things. Some children have different learning styles, and it may seem tough to figure out how to get through to them. Whatever the issue is, stick to it. Be persistent. Go the distance for each of your children, helping them all succeed.
4 Anger Rules.
Teach children four rules for anger.
Do NOT hurt someone.
Do NOT hurt property.
Do NOT hurt yourself.
DO talk about it.
I have a dream.
Today is Martin Luther King Day. It always reminds me of what he accomplished and his great speech, "I have a dream."
I too have a dream. I dream of the day when kindness has spread throughout the world, and violence, bullying, and meanness are gone. I dream of a day when all children feel safe when they go to school. I dream of the day when children with disabilities will be accepted and respected. I dream of the day when you who work with children walk into a room filled with people, and when someone says, "What do you do," you respond, "I'm a teacher," and they will applaud you and thank you for the important work you do.
I believe in dreams coming true. Thank you, Martin Luther King, for your dream, and inspiring us to dream and to build a better kinder future for children.
"OOOPS!"
Teach children the "Ooops strategy." It is for times when children become defiant or talk back or are disrespectful. Here's how it works: When they say something disrespectful, say, "Ooops." This is a reminder for children in turn to say, "Ooops," and pause and make their request in a politer voice.
Explain this ahead so that children know what you will be doing and rehearse polite ways of asking for things.
Home is where the heart is.
Where there are children gathered, I feel like I am at home, right where I belong.
Children have more than one home. They have their regular homes in which they live. Some of those homes are good, but some as you all know, sure are lacking in the important things like safety, love, positive discipline, structure, and consistency. That's why your classroom is so important. Children need to feel the "heart" in their classroom homes. Children need to have their classroom be a special place, a "home away from home," a place they feel safe, cared for, and learn and grow. That is what you do. You are a difference maker.
Never give up.
Children learn by doing. Sometimes they make the same mistakes over and over again. When they make a mistake, don't take it personally. Resolve that you will find a way to get through to children that don't listen. Every child needs a chance. You may be the catalyst for positive change in a child's life.
Avoid the word, "Don't."
Avoid the word, "don't." Here is a statement for you: "Don't picture a pink elephant." What is the first thing that came into your mind? It probably was a pink elephant. It is the same with children. When you tell them, "Don't talk," they hear the word "talk," and keep talking. Instead, tell them what you need. "I need you to stop talking."
Light illuminates darkness.
One little candle can brighten a dark room. You are like a candle for children. You spread sunshine into their lives. You light the spark for them to learn. You spread light, where before there was only darkness. You give them hope.
Love and "Time" are linked.
Children need love. Loving children is so much more than saying the words, "I love you," or giving gifts. Love is linked to "time." It is dedicating blocks of time to be together.
During this special time, love is found in enjoying the moments. The more you enjoy the time together with children, the more they sense it, and enjoy the time too. It's special time uninterrupted by phones, TV, and computers.
Love is a precious gift to children, and your time is the vehicle for giving that gift.
Children need to learn appropriate ways to express anger.
Anger is a normal emotion. It is all in how anger is expressed that determines whether it is simply an expression of a feeling, or if it's aggression and possibly even rage. Teach children how to express anger appropriately. Have them use their words, "I'm angry." Teach them methods to regain self-control like deep breathing.
The Gardener
Children are like seeds in the garden of life. The teacher's job is to be a gardener, making sure they get everything they need to blossom and bloom.
"Thank You" Teach children to say "thank you."
It's good manners, and it's an act of kindness to others to acknowledge them when they do something for you. Here's a neat idea to help children learn and remember to say "Thank you." Have a small "Thank you" box. Every time children say "Thank you," pop a smiley face in the box. (You can make smiley faces or use something like Cheerios.) Talk and demonstrate times it's appropriate to say "Thank you." The goal is to fill the box each day and then start over the next day.
Going the Distance.
There is no half-way to loving a child. You have to go the distance. They have to be loved on their good days when their smiles light up your heart. They have to be loved on those bad days when they upset you so much, you want to scream.
It's the same with setting limits. You can't set limits and then not follow through. You have to follow through all the time. You have to go the distance.
It's not always easy balancing love and limits, but children need you to do both to thrive.
Saying "I'm sorry."
Those are important words for children to learn to say. This is more complex than just teaching children to say the words. There are people who say, "I'm sorry," and they don't mean it. It's important that children learn to say, "I'm sorry," when they do something wrong because they wish they had not done something to cause someone else hurt.
Talk about times to say, "I'm sorry." Explain that these are times you cause someone else to feel badly. Give examples and have the children relate their own examples. Role play with younger children saying, "I'm sorry," using some of the examples.
Help the ordinary to become extraordinary.
Every student is special and unique. Every person has unique and special qualities. Often students do not even know they have these extra special qualities. Look for them. Point them out, and help each student reach a potential that is extraordinary.
You need more than one strategy.
Every child is different. Every teacher is different. What works for one teacher or one child may not work for the next one. That is why it is important to have many strategies. Do not confine yourself to just using the same classroom management tools over and over again especially if they are not working. If something does not work, try something else. Try and try again until you succeed. One important strategy is to do have transition tools. Put on a fun hat when it is time for you to announce a transition. Play some fun music. Catch the attention of all the students, and tell them what they need to do. Have fun. You are a difference maker.
Positives create positives
teach, inspire, motivate, and transform lives.
The future is built one day at a time.
It really starts with the small things that are free. It's the smile that warms a child's heart. It's a hand that reaches out across the room to help light the way for a child who needs comfort. It's the words of hope and inspiration that move a child to action. It's the offering of a tissue to a student who is struggling to hold back tears. It's the caring nod of acknowledgement to a student who desperately needs to be noticed. That's what you do. Every day you build futures, one moment, one hour, and one day at a time. You are a difference maker.
You are always playing a role in the eyes of students.
Children learn from you all the time. They learn not only what you teach, but they learn from watching how you handle yourself. They watch you and learn how to have confidence and faith in the face of fear; how to be positive even when a situation is negative; and how to be strong during times when some would feel helpless. They learn from you above all, to have hope, to dream, to aspire to be all they can be. They watch, they hear, and they learn. You are a difference maker!
Pass it on.
Pass on your smiles and your laughter to the students in your classrooms. Pass on happiness, enthusiasm, and joy in learning. Your attitudes are contagious, so pass on those positive attitudes.
You just never know!!!
You have an impact. Every person who has become a world leader has had a teacher. Every person who has become a CEO of a large corporation has had a teacher. Every person who has become a politician has had a teacher. Every person who has become a great teacher of children has had a teacher! You just never know who your children will become, but you do know that right now, you are building bridges to the future! Every word you say as well as every word you don’t say has the power to help shape the lives of children. Your influence can help a great destiny unfold.
Children are like seeds planted deeply in the soil.
In some climates, winter means there is a blanket of snow on the ground. But deep underneath the snow, seemingly dormant lies plants for spring--grass, shrubbery, and flowers. Everything is waiting for warmth and sunshine to emerge into blossoming plants. It is a complete transformation of beauty. In the same way, you can have a complete transformation in your toughest child. The child may be frozen into negativity, but with your compassion, the negativity can melt away, and the child can blossom.
The hard to handle student is a puzzle waiting to be solved.
If you have ever worked a puzzle, you know that some pieces fall into place fairly easily. Other pieces take time and a lot of patience. Some children are like those latter pieces. They take time and patience. Look for clues with each student. Find those moments when the student IS concentrating and attentive. What was happening in the classroom during that time? Were you speaking about something special? Just like you can work that special puzzle with time and patience, so too, can you help each student open up to learning. You can do it!
Your actions speak louder than your words.
Children "read" your body language. Have you ever traveled to a foreign country and you don't speak the language there. You may not understand the words, but you "read" what people are saying. You watch their facial expressions. You watch their mannerisms. It is the same with the students you teach. They "read" your facial expressions and your body language. They can tell whether you like them by your actions — by your total body language. Do you smile broadly to welcome a child? Do you look like you are happy to be in the classroom? Today and everyday, model the language of caring, concern, and compassion
Communication is not only about speaking, but about listening.
Take time today to listen to the sounds of your classroom. Listen not only to what children are saying, but "listen" to their body language too. Are they smiling? Are they enthusiastic? Are they motivated? The more you "tune in" to them, the more you will know what they need and how to handle your classroom.
Create a "Safe Place."
Create a special place in your classroom where children voluntarily go when they need to calm themselves. It can be a rocking chair or a special pillow. Have a timer there so that they don't miss too much teaching time. Teach the students to breathe deeply while in the "Safe Place." I saw one awesome Safe Place in which the teacher had created a throne. It was really neat to watch children go to the throne, set the timer, and then breathe deeply.
Music is powerful
Use the power of music to make your classroom the best it can be. Music can totally change the moods of children in an instant. Have you ever felt sad, got in your car, and a song was playing on the radio that immediately lifted your spirits as you began to sing along? It's the same with the students you teach! Play fun songs during transitions that become signals for the new transition. Play calming music to soothe children when they enter the classrooms in the mornings after having eaten a sugar-filled breakfast of coco puffs and doughnuts! Build music into your routines.
Make more deposits than withdrawals.
When a bank checking account has more withdrawals than deposits, it gets insufficient funds. A huge cycle begins with more and more checks bouncing and more and more late fees. It can become nearly impossible to bail out.
Life is like a bank account. Each day there are opportunities for deposits or withdrawals. A deposit is something that is nurturing, that enhances the person. A withdrawal is something that depletes the person. Some of the children you teach have had so many withdrawals that a cycle has been set up so that they believe they will fail. They do not believe they can do anything right. They have come to expect they cannot learn or that they cannot behave. These children need deposits. That is where you come in. Every day you have a new opportunity to make deposits into your students' accounts. You are a difference maker.
You help children grow.
Plants need sunshine and water to thrive. That is what you do. The plants are the students in your classroom. You feed them the sunshine of your smiles, your warmth, and caring. You water them as you give them new knowledge, new learning, to help them thrive. And just as a plant grows from a tiny seed to something so beautiful, that is what you do with the students that come into your classroom.
Find the key to open the door.
Every challenge can also be viewed as an opportunity. Every student is a new opportunity, a chance to find what helps that student "click." Find the key to open the door to learning for each of your students, and you have opened the door to a treasure that lasts forever.
Find the key.
Every child has a special key, something that is important to that child. One way to find the key is to observe the child for a couple days more carefully while doing your regular teaching. Is there a special time of day when the student appears more attentive or less attentive? Is there a topic that engages the student? Ask the student to describe any hobbies. Find the key and you will open the door to the student learning.
Worry empties today of its strength.
It's difficult for children to learn when they are stressed. Stress and worry do not empty today of its problems, but instead rob the new day of its strengths. Help your students de-stress. Play music as they enter the classroom. Greet them warmly. Smile. Have fun. Your own calm attitude is contagious.
Say or do something special today!
Don't put off for tomorrow what you can do today. Say the special kind words that you have been waiting to say to a child or a co-worker. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, the precious present, a day in which you can make a difference.
Make deposits into the future today.
A child's mind is like a bank because it holds investments for the future. Today, as you teach, you have the opportunity to make deposits into each student's future. You make the deposits by imparting wisdom, and by your caring connection.
Today, look for something positive in each student.
Let your students know the positives. This is especially true for the child who rarely hears about positives, only negatives. The more you focus on the positives, the more they will expand and grow.
Today is an opportunity to build a bridge to the future.
Actually every day is a new opportunity to build bridges to the future in the lives of yours students. When you help a student who seems lost, when you help another student to laugh and become playful who seems serious, when you take time to connect with a student who may be suffering from emotional or physical pain, you are building a bridge to the future. You are a difference maker.
An important key to success with the child, is the success you have with the child’s family.
A simple way to start a relationship off on the right foot is to smile and make the family member feel welcome. Every parent is a bit scared about how their child's teacher will react. Will the child be liked? Will the parent hear bad news or good news? It's important to set the tone making the parent feel welcome. Your smile goes a long way in accomplishing this.
Start with a great introduction.
When you introduce a new lesson, start it off with a "teaser" something that makes the students want to listen and hear what you will have to say. Be very dramatic. Always do this. It makes a big difference in whether or not you will engage your students.
Ignite a spark.
The best way to reach and teach students is to awaken sparks of enthusiasm so that they are eager to learn whatever you are teaching. Be innovative. Dare to be different—to find new ways to ignite the spark of learning and make learning more fun.
Be careful what you think
It can be tough on some days when working with kids. It's important to keep a positive attitude even on those tough days because for some children, you are the one who can help transform their lives. Start with being careful what you think. Your thoughts become your attitudes. Your attitudes become your words. Your words become your actions. Your actions become your habits. Your habits become not only your destiny, but help shape the destiny of those you teach.
Nothing succeeds like success.
Help each of your students feel successful at something they do in the classroom. Some students become used to feeling like failures. They develop learned helplessness and think that's all they can do. Failure breeds more failures. Plant rays of hope by helping students to be successful in something they are learning. Success truly does breed success.
Use the CEWWS Approach
The CEWWS approach stands for the many ways you are a role model to your students.
C stands for compassion. It's the many ways
you show you care, your acts of kindness.
E stands for enthusiasm. It's the infectious
passion with which you teach.
W stands for wisdom. It's the intelligence, the
education that you pass on.
W stands for willingness. It's your willingness
to go that extra mile to make a difference.
S stands for strength. It's your ability to persevere,
to work even on those days when you are tired.
It’s your tireless efforts on behalf of your students.
You are part of a world team.
Every day when you go to work, every time you step into the classroom you are part of a world team of educators who help build a better world for children. You build it through your words, your encouragement, your information and knowledge, your consistency, your caring, and by you simply being present for some who have no one consistently present. Thank you for what you do. You are a difference maker.
Teach students to be considerate of diversity.
In every classroom, there are students with varying abilities, varying needs, and varying appearances. Children can be cruel to those that they consider "different." Teach students to stand up for others who need help. You can do this several ways. Teach students to look for similarities rather than differences by having discussions of things students have in common. Teach students to recognize the feelings of others, and to care. Make it a virtue in your classroom to care about others and to stand up for students who need help.
Patience and Perseverance --
2 Key Qualities for Teachers
Disappointments with students are inevitable. The important thing is not to give up. When a student with whom you have been working lets you down, think about it as meaning that you have to think of something else to help boost that student back up. Ultimately, it is up to the student to do the work, but you are the motivator, the coach, behind the scenes that can cheer that student on to do better. You can do it. You are a difference maker.
Have a chatter stopper.
It's important to have a signal for students. It can be something as simple as raising both hands in the air. When you raise your arms up, students stop what they are doing, and raise their arms up. It is a signal that you have something you want to tell them. Teach them ahead about the signal and have them practice it a few times before you use it. Make it a fun activity with your own humor as you all do this.
I use a Bell or Clap my Hands.
You help each of your students learn these through your teaching and by being a great role model for them.
The secret to reaching and teaching each student is to realize that each student learns differently.
Most teachers teach by lecture, by talking to students. Yet, most students are typically visual learners. There are still others who learn through "doing." Take time to discover how each of your students learn, and your students will be more successful learning.
It's all in how you ask.
When you need a student to do something, say the student's name first, and then say,
"I need you to ..." Say it firmly. Use a calm deep voice. Have your voice get deeper and deeper and lower and lower as you speak. Students respond better to this than to demands, loud voices, or power struggles. Be persistent, but calm.
Reflect and act rather than react.
When a student pushes your hot button, take time to pause. Get calm. Count to ten. Breathe deeply. Say to yourself, "I'm getting calmer and calmer. I can handle this." You can do it!
Be cautious using the word "Don't"
When you say the word, "don't," followed by a verb, students hear the verb. They generally pay no attention to the word, "Don't" and just continue to engage in the action verb. For example, when they hear, "Don't yell," children typically continue to yell. Instead say what it is you want to happen. Use the action verb. Say, "Talk quietly."
Anger is one letter away from danger.
It's important to "cool down" when you are upset before you speak to children. It's true that anger is one letter away from danger. Your words spoken in anger can never be taken back. They may stay with that child for an entire lifetime. The good news is that your positive words can do the same. The next time you are angry, take a 1 or 2 second mini-vacation picturing yourself in your favorite vacation place. Breathe deeply as you calm down. Say to yourself, "I can handle this." You can do it!
Knowledge is weightless.
Knowledge fills the child up, yet is weighs nothing. It is a gift that students can carry around their entire lives. Every day, you impart knowledge and help build brighter futures.
A Teacher's Prayer
May my nose breathe in the breathe of patience.
May my ears hear not only the words said, but the words that children cannot say aloud.
May my eyes see all around me and also what is beneath the surface in each child.
May my mouth say words that are encouraging, wise, kind, and always helpful.
May my mind be filled with gratitude for the difference I get to make each day in the lives of children.
Birds come out to sing after the rain.
There are some teaching days that can be rough. Remember, that just as birds come out to sing after the rain, so too can tomorrow be a better day or even the next hour be better. At any time, you can choose to start your day over again with your students.
Plan to prevent problems before they happen.
Plan your day from start to finish. The more you plan, the more problems you will prevent. Keep a set schedule. Children have a need for routine. However, within that routine, add novelty. For example, when teaching a new concept, you might have the children tap or rap out a beat about what you are teaching. That's novelty. Think of your own creative ways to add novelty as you plan.
Look for the silver lining.
Even on days it is cloudy, if you look hard enough you can see the sunshine and the silver lining around the clouds. Life also can have its challenges, and you sometimes have to look beyond appearances to find the silver lining and the sunshine. It is the same with your classrooms. Some children come into the classrooms covered with “clouds” covering up their sunshine. It's your awesome task to help them uncover the clouds and let the sunshine in.
Be prepared for the unexpected when teaching.
Kids, regardless of age, do the unexpected! Train yourself to remain calm. There are some situations in which you may just want to laugh to diffuse the situation. There are other situations in which you calmly need to set some boundaries. The students will react to your actions and emotions. Your attitudes are more contagious than a cold. Remember, you are a difference maker!
Think about the word, RESPONSIBILITY when teaching students to be responsible.
The word responsibility can be divided into two parts: response and ability. Before children can make the response, they have to have the ability. They have to be capable of doing the job that needs to be done. More importantly, they have to want to do the task! Set an example of having fun doing the tasks. The more you make something like homework or cleaning up shelves seem difficult, the more children will not want to do it. Have fun helping your students have the ability to be response – able!!!
A flower can shatter a stone.
John Denver sang a great song called, "The Flower that Shatters the Stone." It is a song about love and caring and the difference that it makes. That is what you have the opportunity to do with your words. Some students come into school hardened like thick heavy stones. Your persistent and firm caring, can gently shatter those stones. Just as waves on the beach change rocks to sand, you create waves that can change those hard stones to wonderful engaged and enthusiastic learners.
The more fun you have teaching, the more fun students will have learning.
Your enthusiasm is more contagious than a cold. Find ways to make learning more exciting and fun. Laugh and have fun. Your children will catch your attitude.
Create a Calming Comfort Center
Students need somewhere they can go when they are upset. Adults sometimes need to be alone, and so too do children. The Calming Comfort Center is that kind of special place in the classroom. You can designate an area of the classroom in which there is a rocking chair, calming music, and other items that children say would be calming for them. The rule would be that there may be only one child at a time in the Class Calming Comfort Center
Trade compliments for criticism.
Have children practice saying nice things — compliments to others. Be a role model for this. Words have the power to build or tear down. Teach children the power of words as building tools.
It's all in how you say it.
Choose words carefully to foster communication and understanding. For example, it can be embarrassing for a child when asked: "Is there anything you didn't understand?" Instead, you can say, "Is there anything I can help clarify?" The goal is to always enhance esteem in the child. Words can be esteem-builders or esteem-droppers.
Today's child is tomorrow's future.
Every day that you work with children is an opportunity to build a better world. What you say, what you do, how you say it, all will impact that child. You are a difference maker.
Worry empties today of its strength
It's difficult for children to learn when they are stressed. Stress and worry do not empty today of its problems, but instead rob the new day of its strengths. Help your students de-stress. Play music as they enter the classroom. Greet them warmly. Smile. Have fun. Your own calm attitude is contagious.