Hello teacher friends! I don’t know about you, but I sure do love Fall, I mean everything Fall. I love to break out the scarves with my jeans and a tall Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks. Teaching during Fall is such a fun time as well. You can truly carry this theme throughout each of your centers. I am reminded that often times we think so much about “measurements” and “data” that sometimes we forget the little things that make us smile like…leaf rubbings. Who doesn’t love to put a huge maple leaf under a piece of paper and color and viola there it is…your masterpiece. I encourage you to seek ideas and activities where a child will be able to embrace their “viola” moment. The moment they feel successful.
My challenge to you is what can you do to help create a “successful” student in your classroom. Now let’s be careful not to think of a successful student is only students who have straight A’s or S+’s and sits quietly at their seat. I would you life for you to think differentiation. How can you differentiate your teaching to accommodate all student learning. Think of it as a case of stairs. How can you help each child step up in their own learning journey. When the child makes it to the next “step” make sure you praise and more praise on these accomplishments. When we are praised for the little things just think what that can do to a child’s motivation? Can you say, “start your engine?” That engine will take off for learning.
Lastly, when grading student papers make sure you encourage the little things that each child has accomplished. Even if a child “bombs” a paper can we at least find something to praise them for. Once praise is given, go over with the child how to make corrections keeping your tone positive and encouraging. I made sure I would put at the top of the paper, “Keep Trying” instead of the dreaded…S- or F. Our goal is not to rack up the S-‘s or F’s, but rather to see this child try harder, to learn, to be …successful.
Devotion:
II TIMOTHY 2:24-26 And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
I love this verse for many reasons. When teaching we often come across students who “challenge” our patience. We’ve tried behavior charts, smiley faces, stickers, rewards, etc. and still there’s disobedience. I want you to take a step back and change your lens. Look at the child as Jesus would. Love this student as your own. Making sure this child feels safe, encouraged, and loved. When children feel secure, discipline & correction comes much easier. I ask each of you to love as He loves us, and to teach as if your teaching with Jesus right by your side.
smilingforhim 
Leave a comment