I just love my students and my class this year!!! They are so much fun and I'm loving my teaching style and interactions with the kids. It's just working for me! I don't know if that makes sense. The last 2 days have been parent/teacher conferences. These are very long days for me and I am so exhausted, but I love talking with parents. They were so kind in saying that they kids are loving school and loving learning. What more could I love to hear as a teacher.
I have a small magnetic easel that I've opened up for the kids to use magnetic letters and create sentences on using correct capitalization and punctuation. I had 3 cute boys come over to me this morning all excited. They had written a sentence and wanted me to see it. It read, "We love Miss Jones do you?" I had to take a picture. Maybe I'll post it when I get it downloaded. I have to crop the kids out first, but it sure made me feel good!
Showing posts with label School life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label School life. Show all posts
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
New Day!
I don't know what it was about yesterday, but it was a long and tough day for whatever reason. There were no students. We had a half professional day. Friday, my classroom was painted, so all my things were in the center of the room and there wasn't anything on the walls. It's sure nice to have a newly painted room, but I spent the rest of yesterday putting everything back. I don't know what the deal was with my mood, but it kind of stunk. Poor Kelly. It wasn't so great by the time I saw him last night. He was a great sport, though, and helped me put everything back up on the walls. Maybe part of it was I knew this week was going to be a long one. Wednesday and Thursday are 12 hour days with parent/teacher conferences after school. I always love meeting with the parents and it always goes well, but it just takes something out of you to be on your A-game for quite that long.
Well, today is a new day, and I just love teaching!!! I didn't mind not having kids yesterday. Sometimes, it's rather nice to have a little break. However, the short weeks somehow end up being or feeling longer than the regular weeks. Today was great, though. It was so good to see my kids. I'm really enjoying our writing time. . . and for the first year, I started my science rotation with my own class on the day it was planned to start. You see, the first rotation is our own class and if it doesn't go right on schedule, that's okay. It's my time. However, I'm all about routines this year and being better about staying on my schedule, etc. So, yay for me! Also, Friday is a field trip, which are so much fun, but are very exhausting!!! We are going to Thanksgiving Point to Farm Country. It's fun because they also do something on plants, which we learn in 1st grade. They make wheat necklaces. They have a little tube on the necklace where they can put in dirt, water, and some seeds to grow some wheat, I think it is.
I came home from work today in a much better mood! Kelly already noticed when I called him. :)
Well, today is a new day, and I just love teaching!!! I didn't mind not having kids yesterday. Sometimes, it's rather nice to have a little break. However, the short weeks somehow end up being or feeling longer than the regular weeks. Today was great, though. It was so good to see my kids. I'm really enjoying our writing time. . . and for the first year, I started my science rotation with my own class on the day it was planned to start. You see, the first rotation is our own class and if it doesn't go right on schedule, that's okay. It's my time. However, I'm all about routines this year and being better about staying on my schedule, etc. So, yay for me! Also, Friday is a field trip, which are so much fun, but are very exhausting!!! We are going to Thanksgiving Point to Farm Country. It's fun because they also do something on plants, which we learn in 1st grade. They make wheat necklaces. They have a little tube on the necklace where they can put in dirt, water, and some seeds to grow some wheat, I think it is.
I came home from work today in a much better mood! Kelly already noticed when I called him. :)
Friday, October 2, 2009
School!
I'm still teaching 1st grade and loving it. Last year, I loved my kids, but had such a hard group. This year, I love my kids and am having such fun. They are really such a great group!!! I think my teaching is a little different this year with my experiences with Kelly and his kids and the thought of being a step-mom. My perspective has definitely changed and my teaching along with it for the good!
Today we were moved into a different classroom while our classroom was being painted. It's exciting to have newly painted walls, but a pain to get it ready and my room is a mess. Everything is off the walls and everything else is away from the walls stacked and piled on desks in the middle of my room. I am excited, though, because they decided to paint our window wall a green color. It will be nice to break up white walls only. It gives the room a little more character. Now I don't need to put up posters to cover up paint taken off from past occupants.
This next week includes a half day professional development, 2 evenings of parent/teacher conferences and a field trip to Farm Country at Thanksgiving Point. It will be a long week, but a good week. I always enjoy meeting with parents, but they are such long days and I get exhausted.
I'm so glad I'm teaching this year!!! I'm truly having a delightful year and loving it. I'm also loving my team that I work with. This is our second year having the exact same team. I don't know that I'm so good as team leader, but they manage to put up with it and me. I imagine it's partly because they'd rather not be the team leader themselves. :) It's also been fun car pooling with the ladies. It's a great chance to talk about life and school, when we want, to and from school.
Today we were moved into a different classroom while our classroom was being painted. It's exciting to have newly painted walls, but a pain to get it ready and my room is a mess. Everything is off the walls and everything else is away from the walls stacked and piled on desks in the middle of my room. I am excited, though, because they decided to paint our window wall a green color. It will be nice to break up white walls only. It gives the room a little more character. Now I don't need to put up posters to cover up paint taken off from past occupants.
This next week includes a half day professional development, 2 evenings of parent/teacher conferences and a field trip to Farm Country at Thanksgiving Point. It will be a long week, but a good week. I always enjoy meeting with parents, but they are such long days and I get exhausted.
I'm so glad I'm teaching this year!!! I'm truly having a delightful year and loving it. I'm also loving my team that I work with. This is our second year having the exact same team. I don't know that I'm so good as team leader, but they manage to put up with it and me. I imagine it's partly because they'd rather not be the team leader themselves. :) It's also been fun car pooling with the ladies. It's a great chance to talk about life and school, when we want, to and from school.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Student Teacher!
I have had a student teacher in my classroom for the last approx. 9 weeks. This is her last week. Most of the last 5-6 weeks, she has completely taken over. This means I have been "homeless". Mostly I have taken over a conference room. Sometimes, other teachers with student teachers have also been in there, and sometimes I've been all by myself.
It has been great in so many ways. I got to talk to my parents lots before they went into the MTC. I get to talk to Kelly lots throughout the day. I have created tons of assessments for my 1st grade team. I was able to get everything done for grades during school, rather than after. I also was able to do all of my own testing of my students, rather than have an aid or parent test them for report cards.
However, it is also hard in many ways. I am sitting way too much!!! One reason why I love teaching is because I am always moving. I also go into my classroom and it's tough not to take over, give the teacher look, and generally not be in control. Go figure! She's really good, but it's still tough.
Next week, I'm back full-time in the classroom. I'm really excited and also quite scared. I'm excited to have my class back, but a little worried about having them back for a whole day, day after day. I've gotten used to "doing my own thing".
I am glad to have accomplished so much during this time. I guess I'd better just enjoy myself for the rest of the week and get myself prepared in all ways for next week.
Good news! When I come back, there are only 8 weeks of school left for the year! Yay! One week in between those weeks is Spring Break and I'm off to Hawaii!!!!! Whoohooo!
It has been great in so many ways. I got to talk to my parents lots before they went into the MTC. I get to talk to Kelly lots throughout the day. I have created tons of assessments for my 1st grade team. I was able to get everything done for grades during school, rather than after. I also was able to do all of my own testing of my students, rather than have an aid or parent test them for report cards.
However, it is also hard in many ways. I am sitting way too much!!! One reason why I love teaching is because I am always moving. I also go into my classroom and it's tough not to take over, give the teacher look, and generally not be in control. Go figure! She's really good, but it's still tough.
Next week, I'm back full-time in the classroom. I'm really excited and also quite scared. I'm excited to have my class back, but a little worried about having them back for a whole day, day after day. I've gotten used to "doing my own thing".
I am glad to have accomplished so much during this time. I guess I'd better just enjoy myself for the rest of the week and get myself prepared in all ways for next week.
Good news! When I come back, there are only 8 weeks of school left for the year! Yay! One week in between those weeks is Spring Break and I'm off to Hawaii!!!!! Whoohooo!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
A funny!
The other day I went to school with my hair straightened. It never gets straightened anymore. It's always curly, but I decided to straighten it on Sunday, so it was straight on Monday as well. I got lots of complements, including from some of my students. One student asked me if I had brushed my hair. I had to laugh.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Most Excellent Colleagues!
Today I am so very thankful for wonderful colleagues! They are my co-workers and friends! I love that I have such an amazing team that I work with. We work so well together. I so appreciate how well we work together and collaborate. We have an open door policy and can run ideas past each other. We cover each other whenever one of us is in need. Thank you, ladies! It makes the hugest difference if you not only love what you do, but love who you work with!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Important things in life! It's the little things . . .and the people!
Today, I had a little bit of reflection during my teaching and some insights! I've been so busy with teaching classes, being team leader, having a student teacher, etc, etc. I've been trying to multi-task and make the most of my time. None of these things are bad, per se, but I took a moment to step back today and "see" what was going on.
I took the time to ask my students questions about their life and what's going on while they were writing in their journals. I took a moment to really notice what they are improving on. I have some working so hard on different aspects of school life. I took some notes, wrote down some compliments to share with the rest of the class, and try to take more time to really "see" where they need some encouragement.
We had a class mtg today. It's a little harsh in that . . . if they talk, they have to leave the room. I'm creating a class environment where everyone has a voice and will be listened to, if they choose to share. We've had several practice rounds where I stopped them every time someone did something where I would have asked them to leave. Today was the real thing. They did awesome!!! No one had to leave. This is saying a lot for my class this year.
We sit in a circle and they can only talk if they have the microphone and Mr. Elephant (a small stuffed animal). I'm working really hard to also follow these rules myself. I asked them the question "What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?" They have to respond in a complete sentence. They did so well, that I decided to get a little more serious. I asked them, "What makes you sad at school?" We talked about not using individuals names and that it had to be something at school. I almost started crying. I actually teared up a bit. They each had a chance to share if they wanted and everyone ended up sharing. They said things such as, "It makes me sad when people call me names." or "It makes me sad when I am pushed." or "It makes me sad when I feel left out and my friends don't want to play with me." It was the coolest thing because there wasn't anyone there that didn't have something that they were sad about. They each had a voice.
I do these once a week. I also share complements during this time, both complements that I write about them and also ones that they write about each other. It's so much fun to see their little faces light up when their name is called and someone notices something about them or even when they were the one that wrote it and it is shared.
It's all about being loved and using the power within us to make someone else feel good. It's about the people. Life sure gets busy, but everyone just wants a voice, someone who will listen and someone to talk to.
Next class meeting, I'm going to have them share what makes them happy and then what can they do to make someone else in our class feel good and have a great day. I'm excited to hear their answers and see their faces.
I took the time to ask my students questions about their life and what's going on while they were writing in their journals. I took a moment to really notice what they are improving on. I have some working so hard on different aspects of school life. I took some notes, wrote down some compliments to share with the rest of the class, and try to take more time to really "see" where they need some encouragement.
We had a class mtg today. It's a little harsh in that . . . if they talk, they have to leave the room. I'm creating a class environment where everyone has a voice and will be listened to, if they choose to share. We've had several practice rounds where I stopped them every time someone did something where I would have asked them to leave. Today was the real thing. They did awesome!!! No one had to leave. This is saying a lot for my class this year.
We sit in a circle and they can only talk if they have the microphone and Mr. Elephant (a small stuffed animal). I'm working really hard to also follow these rules myself. I asked them the question "What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?" They have to respond in a complete sentence. They did so well, that I decided to get a little more serious. I asked them, "What makes you sad at school?" We talked about not using individuals names and that it had to be something at school. I almost started crying. I actually teared up a bit. They each had a chance to share if they wanted and everyone ended up sharing. They said things such as, "It makes me sad when people call me names." or "It makes me sad when I am pushed." or "It makes me sad when I feel left out and my friends don't want to play with me." It was the coolest thing because there wasn't anyone there that didn't have something that they were sad about. They each had a voice.
I do these once a week. I also share complements during this time, both complements that I write about them and also ones that they write about each other. It's so much fun to see their little faces light up when their name is called and someone notices something about them or even when they were the one that wrote it and it is shared.
It's all about being loved and using the power within us to make someone else feel good. It's about the people. Life sure gets busy, but everyone just wants a voice, someone who will listen and someone to talk to.
Next class meeting, I'm going to have them share what makes them happy and then what can they do to make someone else in our class feel good and have a great day. I'm excited to hear their answers and see their faces.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
In over my head or just being stretched?
I've been given some opportunities and have been getting more and more involved in teaching outside of my classroom. Between taking a class, having a student teacher, being collaboration team leader, and these new opportunities, I just might be in over my head.
This last summer, I facilitated a couple of math classes for the district. It was a little out of my comfort zone, but ended up being a great experience. I also didn't mind my paycheck at the end of the summer. It's kind of gotten something started. You really have to be careful WHO you know! My roommate is over 5th and 6th grade math training in the district. Because of it, now I am now team teaching a math class with her. It's about base ten. I've been having "ah ha" moments in class just like the teachers taking the class. I enjoy teaching teachers, but feel a little out of my element. When I'm in my element, watch out. I become quite the talker and have no problem getting my thoughts and opinions out there and contributing. My student teacher is currently teaching math, but I can't wait to get back in there next week and delve into math with my students.
I was also recently asked to be a presenter at a literacy institute this summer. I'm not sure where they got my name from. They said I was "recommended". Anyhow, I decided to do it. It is very involved for the rest of the school year in preparation for the institute in June. Since I was finishing one class I was taking, and teaching another class, . . .why not fill in with something else. Haha! Yesterday I went to the first training. It was very interesting! I love going to trainings and learning how to be a better teacher. I don't know that I'm quite ready to present all of this, though, to other teachers.
My student teacher has been here the last 2 weeks in my class. I've gotten over having someone watching me all the time. It doesn't phase me anymore to have an aide or parents or my student teacher in my classroom, which I suppose is a good thing. This last 2 weeks, however, my kids have been sooo crazy!!! Between Halloween after effects and snow and rain, they are sure challenging me. It's tough to have someone in your classroom when that's going on. On Thursday, I felt like I was being pulled a million directions at once and my kids were challenging my management skills. I "felt like pulling my hair out". It was so nice yesterday to be out of the classroom, learning and relearning great things to help me in my teaching, and take a personal day in the afternoon. Whew! I just hope my student teacher is learning good things from me. She's here for another week and then not back until January. She'll be here for 10 weeks and for some of that, she will take over the whole classroom. In some ways, that could be nice, and in other ways, . . . I think I just might go stir crazy!
This year is challenging me in so many different ways, but am I in over my head . . . or . . just being stretched? Only time will tell. Isn't life exciting?!?
This last summer, I facilitated a couple of math classes for the district. It was a little out of my comfort zone, but ended up being a great experience. I also didn't mind my paycheck at the end of the summer. It's kind of gotten something started. You really have to be careful WHO you know! My roommate is over 5th and 6th grade math training in the district. Because of it, now I am now team teaching a math class with her. It's about base ten. I've been having "ah ha" moments in class just like the teachers taking the class. I enjoy teaching teachers, but feel a little out of my element. When I'm in my element, watch out. I become quite the talker and have no problem getting my thoughts and opinions out there and contributing. My student teacher is currently teaching math, but I can't wait to get back in there next week and delve into math with my students.
I was also recently asked to be a presenter at a literacy institute this summer. I'm not sure where they got my name from. They said I was "recommended". Anyhow, I decided to do it. It is very involved for the rest of the school year in preparation for the institute in June. Since I was finishing one class I was taking, and teaching another class, . . .why not fill in with something else. Haha! Yesterday I went to the first training. It was very interesting! I love going to trainings and learning how to be a better teacher. I don't know that I'm quite ready to present all of this, though, to other teachers.
My student teacher has been here the last 2 weeks in my class. I've gotten over having someone watching me all the time. It doesn't phase me anymore to have an aide or parents or my student teacher in my classroom, which I suppose is a good thing. This last 2 weeks, however, my kids have been sooo crazy!!! Between Halloween after effects and snow and rain, they are sure challenging me. It's tough to have someone in your classroom when that's going on. On Thursday, I felt like I was being pulled a million directions at once and my kids were challenging my management skills. I "felt like pulling my hair out". It was so nice yesterday to be out of the classroom, learning and relearning great things to help me in my teaching, and take a personal day in the afternoon. Whew! I just hope my student teacher is learning good things from me. She's here for another week and then not back until January. She'll be here for 10 weeks and for some of that, she will take over the whole classroom. In some ways, that could be nice, and in other ways, . . . I think I just might go stir crazy!
This year is challenging me in so many different ways, but am I in over my head . . . or . . just being stretched? Only time will tell. Isn't life exciting?!?
Friday, October 31, 2008
The Hand
Check this out!
A parent and her son brought this to me this morning before class. Freaky, huh!?! It weirded a lot of the kids outs (not as many as I thought, though). I guess this family makes a lot of these kinds of things for Halloween. I know they also do a heart (not the Valentine type heart). I'm glad I got the hand.
It also freaked out a lot of teachers. It was so real looking. They informed me it was edible. They made it out of peach jello. Many of my kids tried it. By then end of the day, all of the fingers and thumb were gone.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Funny Kid Stories!
Never throw a note from the Teacher out the bus window!
I didn't find out about this story until later . . . from the Mom at Parent/Teacher Conferences. Earlier this year I sent a note home with one of my students. He threw it out the bus window. A child in another neighborhood picked it up and gave it to his mom. This mom recognized the name, called the Mom from my class, to let her know she found a note that she thought was for her son. Sure enough, it was for her son. How do you think THAT conversation went?
Pocket Knife
Last Friday, our class went on a field to Thanksgiving Point and got to visit all the animals at the farm and make a "living" necklace. It was lots of fun. One student even got "bit" by a horse. (not really - his hand grazed the tooth of the horse - still, not fun for that child) Anyhow, I digress. As we came back to the school on the bus, many of my students informed me that one boy had a pocket knife. I went back to investigate, found out he did indeed have a pocket knife and had shown the blade to the other students. (The blade wasn't very sharp, but it still was a pocket knife) I confiscated the knife and informed him that if he wanted it back, his parents could pick it up in person for him. I informed the parents through email to let them know. I received an email back. The Dad informed me that he DID NOT give him permission to take the knife to school and because of his actions he was not getting the knife back. He let me know I could throw it away. Don't cross Dad.
Bee
On the same field trip, on the bus ride over, several students in the back of the bus were screaming and yelling. I went back to investigate. There was a bee flying around. I definitely wouldn't have liked that. I'm not a fan of buzzing bees in my space. :) One boy decided to take care of it. He reached out his foot and smashed it dead. One less bee to worry about and no more screaming kids, . . . at least not because of a bee.
Focus Bingo
Who knew a behavior chart could be so much fun? I have a student I am working with on his behavior. I have tried many things and have to keep changing my strategies for him. Well, today I had a "brilliant" idea on the spot. Many of my "brilliant" ideas come in this fashion. I think it's a little help from above. I've wanted to work with him on one thing, but there are so many things to work on, so I asked him what he wanted to work on. He wanted to work on focus. I was thrilled!!!! Focus covers everything!!! :) We have a signal for poor focus and another signal for good focus. His goal is to get bingo with good focus and stickers by the end of the day. It doesn't matter how many times he has poor focus, as long as he can get bingo with his stickers. It focuses on the positive, but still reflects his other decisions. We both win!!! Yeah! I'm hoping it will keep working for a long time. He was really excited about it today.
The funniest part was when I asked him what our signal for good focus should be. He thought I should put my finger on my nose and wiggle back and forth. I suppose that would work . . .if I was Samantha from Bewitched. I suggested a thumb's up. Fortunately, he thought that was a great idea!
I didn't find out about this story until later . . . from the Mom at Parent/Teacher Conferences. Earlier this year I sent a note home with one of my students. He threw it out the bus window. A child in another neighborhood picked it up and gave it to his mom. This mom recognized the name, called the Mom from my class, to let her know she found a note that she thought was for her son. Sure enough, it was for her son. How do you think THAT conversation went?
Pocket Knife
Last Friday, our class went on a field to Thanksgiving Point and got to visit all the animals at the farm and make a "living" necklace. It was lots of fun. One student even got "bit" by a horse. (not really - his hand grazed the tooth of the horse - still, not fun for that child) Anyhow, I digress. As we came back to the school on the bus, many of my students informed me that one boy had a pocket knife. I went back to investigate, found out he did indeed have a pocket knife and had shown the blade to the other students. (The blade wasn't very sharp, but it still was a pocket knife) I confiscated the knife and informed him that if he wanted it back, his parents could pick it up in person for him. I informed the parents through email to let them know. I received an email back. The Dad informed me that he DID NOT give him permission to take the knife to school and because of his actions he was not getting the knife back. He let me know I could throw it away. Don't cross Dad.
Bee
On the same field trip, on the bus ride over, several students in the back of the bus were screaming and yelling. I went back to investigate. There was a bee flying around. I definitely wouldn't have liked that. I'm not a fan of buzzing bees in my space. :) One boy decided to take care of it. He reached out his foot and smashed it dead. One less bee to worry about and no more screaming kids, . . . at least not because of a bee.
Focus Bingo
Who knew a behavior chart could be so much fun? I have a student I am working with on his behavior. I have tried many things and have to keep changing my strategies for him. Well, today I had a "brilliant" idea on the spot. Many of my "brilliant" ideas come in this fashion. I think it's a little help from above. I've wanted to work with him on one thing, but there are so many things to work on, so I asked him what he wanted to work on. He wanted to work on focus. I was thrilled!!!! Focus covers everything!!! :) We have a signal for poor focus and another signal for good focus. His goal is to get bingo with good focus and stickers by the end of the day. It doesn't matter how many times he has poor focus, as long as he can get bingo with his stickers. It focuses on the positive, but still reflects his other decisions. We both win!!! Yeah! I'm hoping it will keep working for a long time. He was really excited about it today.
The funniest part was when I asked him what our signal for good focus should be. He thought I should put my finger on my nose and wiggle back and forth. I suppose that would work . . .if I was Samantha from Bewitched. I suggested a thumb's up. Fortunately, he thought that was a great idea!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
I Survived!!!!
I did it!
It was parent/teacher conferences last night and tonight and I survived! Yeah!!! I didn't really doubt it, but it sure makes for long days after 12 hours 2 days in a row.
I really enjoy meeting with parents. It gives lots of perspective on my students. I also love the support that I get from them.
I'm exhausted, but it's a great feeling and a couple of days well spent.
It was parent/teacher conferences last night and tonight and I survived! Yeah!!! I didn't really doubt it, but it sure makes for long days after 12 hours 2 days in a row.
I really enjoy meeting with parents. It gives lots of perspective on my students. I also love the support that I get from them.
I'm exhausted, but it's a great feeling and a couple of days well spent.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Short glimpses . . . Big discoveries.
This is a year of discovery for me!
Today, I discovered that one of my "challenges" in class this year absolutely loves recess. I kept him in today to finish some assignments and he was chomping at the bit to get outside. This is a fantastic discovery . . . finding out that he'll do a great deal to keep his recesses. I've been racking my brain and trying different things to help him in class. He doesn't socially know what is appropriate and I believe his spirit is bigger than his little body and just has to move and do weird things sometimes. Yesterday, I discovered him with his hand cupped up to another students ear while he yelled into the cupped ear. He informed me that this other boy liked it. It seemed so simple to him. These types of things are happening constantly both inside the classroom and at recess. I now have a sign for him. When I give the sign (pull on one ear), he knows that his behavior is inappropriate for the situation. Then I put a tally mark on a sticky note. He misses one minute of recess. This may sound harsh, but we have tried so many things and he will work hard to keep his recess. Today was a success. He did great! He only got 2 tally marks. I'm hoping it will last. Tomorrow night, I get to talk with his parents at parent/teacher conferences. We'll see how it goes. I have a feeling I'm going to have to come up with new ideas on a regular basis for the whole year. Whew! Exhausting, but exciting at the same time.
I've also made some strides with my little tantrum guy. We are a "gold medal" school, which means we are trying to get in 90 minutes of exercise during school, including them walking or running a mile each week. So . . . we go out and walk the track once each afternoon. My rule is that the students can run or walk, but have to be ahead of me or walk(run) with me. They may not be behind me. (This way they are all there when I get there and we can go straight inside.) My tantrum guy waits for me when we go out and walks with me everyday and we talk. It's his choice. I feel like we are establishing a relationship of trust. I'm learning to "distract" him, work to prevent tantrums, reprove with a group (he can't handle it on his own), ignore some behaviors, keep the mood light with humor, praise as much as I can, and give him lots of opportunities to express himself in positive ways. I had a great talk with his mom tonight. I'm hoping that he will continue to love school and learn to not be so hard on himself. When he gets himself into a tantrum, he feels like he is no good and that nobody likes him (in fact, everyone hates him). I hope this year will be a positive one for him and that he can work through his anger and insecurities.
Every day . . . short glimpses into the mind and spirit of a child . . . big discoveries as a teacher.
Today, I discovered that one of my "challenges" in class this year absolutely loves recess. I kept him in today to finish some assignments and he was chomping at the bit to get outside. This is a fantastic discovery . . . finding out that he'll do a great deal to keep his recesses. I've been racking my brain and trying different things to help him in class. He doesn't socially know what is appropriate and I believe his spirit is bigger than his little body and just has to move and do weird things sometimes. Yesterday, I discovered him with his hand cupped up to another students ear while he yelled into the cupped ear. He informed me that this other boy liked it. It seemed so simple to him. These types of things are happening constantly both inside the classroom and at recess. I now have a sign for him. When I give the sign (pull on one ear), he knows that his behavior is inappropriate for the situation. Then I put a tally mark on a sticky note. He misses one minute of recess. This may sound harsh, but we have tried so many things and he will work hard to keep his recess. Today was a success. He did great! He only got 2 tally marks. I'm hoping it will last. Tomorrow night, I get to talk with his parents at parent/teacher conferences. We'll see how it goes. I have a feeling I'm going to have to come up with new ideas on a regular basis for the whole year. Whew! Exhausting, but exciting at the same time.
I've also made some strides with my little tantrum guy. We are a "gold medal" school, which means we are trying to get in 90 minutes of exercise during school, including them walking or running a mile each week. So . . . we go out and walk the track once each afternoon. My rule is that the students can run or walk, but have to be ahead of me or walk(run) with me. They may not be behind me. (This way they are all there when I get there and we can go straight inside.) My tantrum guy waits for me when we go out and walks with me everyday and we talk. It's his choice. I feel like we are establishing a relationship of trust. I'm learning to "distract" him, work to prevent tantrums, reprove with a group (he can't handle it on his own), ignore some behaviors, keep the mood light with humor, praise as much as I can, and give him lots of opportunities to express himself in positive ways. I had a great talk with his mom tonight. I'm hoping that he will continue to love school and learn to not be so hard on himself. When he gets himself into a tantrum, he feels like he is no good and that nobody likes him (in fact, everyone hates him). I hope this year will be a positive one for him and that he can work through his anger and insecurities.
Every day . . . short glimpses into the mind and spirit of a child . . . big discoveries as a teacher.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Moments.
Today I had a parent come in to help in my classroom. It was her first time there. She came during writer's workshop. She whispered to me that she loved how quietly they were working.
I love those moments when parents or co-workers or the principal come in at just the right moment! Things were going well. All 25 of my students went off to their desks and were on task and working either adding to their pictures, adding to their words in their writing, or starting a new piece. It felt great to have a classroom running smoothly and like clockwork. What a wonderful feeling!!!
It made up for the other moment today when I walked out to pick up the students from recess and one of my (not one from another class) was taking the opportunity in line to turn around and use his lunch box (fortunately soft these days) as a weapon to wallop the kid behind him and anyone else in the path repeatedly. Thank goodness for a thinking chair, both for him to cool off and me to put myself together and take care of the rest of the class. When I talked to him (somehow I was given great patience and a kind voice), he was crying and talking loudly that nobody liked him, that he was always in trouble, and that nobody wanted to be his friend. Well, no kidding. I told him if I was a student I sure wouldn't want to be his friend either if that was how he treated me.
. . . such is a day in the life of a teacher.
I love those moments when parents or co-workers or the principal come in at just the right moment! Things were going well. All 25 of my students went off to their desks and were on task and working either adding to their pictures, adding to their words in their writing, or starting a new piece. It felt great to have a classroom running smoothly and like clockwork. What a wonderful feeling!!!
It made up for the other moment today when I walked out to pick up the students from recess and one of my (not one from another class) was taking the opportunity in line to turn around and use his lunch box (fortunately soft these days) as a weapon to wallop the kid behind him and anyone else in the path repeatedly. Thank goodness for a thinking chair, both for him to cool off and me to put myself together and take care of the rest of the class. When I talked to him (somehow I was given great patience and a kind voice), he was crying and talking loudly that nobody liked him, that he was always in trouble, and that nobody wanted to be his friend. Well, no kidding. I told him if I was a student I sure wouldn't want to be his friend either if that was how he treated me.
. . . such is a day in the life of a teacher.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Visit like an old friend
I had to share a funny story from 1st grade.
For background, I've been sick (but feel much, much better) and one of the subs read a book to my class. It was still on the easel by the chair where I sit to read. Well, I told the kids I was going to read them a book. They were exciting! They love to be read to. I told them they had already heard that book. I had another book I wanted to read. Their response was, "Read it to us again, just like visiting an old friend. We love that book!"
We do Reader's Workshop and I try to instill my love of books to them, so that they might love books. As they read on their own out of their reading box, I ask them what they do if they are done reading all their books and there is still time to read. Well, I told them that we reread books that we love, just like they are old friends. Do we only visit our friends once. No, we love them and want to see them over and over again. So, they say this now when I ask them that question.
I was thrilled when they used it on a class book that had been read to them. Yeah!!!! I thought it was so sweet. How can I say no to that. :)
For background, I've been sick (but feel much, much better) and one of the subs read a book to my class. It was still on the easel by the chair where I sit to read. Well, I told the kids I was going to read them a book. They were exciting! They love to be read to. I told them they had already heard that book. I had another book I wanted to read. Their response was, "Read it to us again, just like visiting an old friend. We love that book!"
We do Reader's Workshop and I try to instill my love of books to them, so that they might love books. As they read on their own out of their reading box, I ask them what they do if they are done reading all their books and there is still time to read. Well, I told them that we reread books that we love, just like they are old friends. Do we only visit our friends once. No, we love them and want to see them over and over again. So, they say this now when I ask them that question.
I was thrilled when they used it on a class book that had been read to them. Yeah!!!! I thought it was so sweet. How can I say no to that. :)
Monday, September 15, 2008
Interesting stories of a 1st grade teacher - the "thinking chair"
Well, I have to apologize for my last blog and being so long. It's probably too much info. Oh well! :)
I thought I should probably post something funny instead of just all this sickness and depressing stuff.
This is what makes teaching 1st grade so interesting and NEVER boring.
I have a student this year that is prone to tantrums a few times a day. I have this game that I play with the kids. It's called I have cards. This particular one is of the alphabet and the order. The first card is longer and talks about being the first card and being a. Who has B? The next student would have a card that says something like . . . I have B. Who has the card that comes after B. Anyhow, it's great for knowing the alphabet order, reading a familiar read, and being on their toes.
I give my tantrum student the first card because he is my best reader and can read the words. He was upset to have that card again. I quietly told him that I give him that card because he's such a good reader, but that I'll give him another card. I gave his card to someone else. He had a change of heart real quick, but I'd already given his card to someone else. He threw a little tantrum and threw his card on the ground. I picked it up and tried to hand it to him. He wouldn't take it, so when it was his turn I read his. I dismissed everyone to lunch by calling their card. I told this student he could line up, but he was so upset by this card that he folded his arms and wouldn't line up. He yelled out (as he often does) and declared he wasn't going to lunch. I ended up giving him a little countdown and he got in line. He loudly complained all the way to the lunchroom, despite our quiet zone in the hallway. I figured I was doing pretty well to have him in line and ignored the loud complaining.
The next day, he had his daily tantrum. I really feel bad for him. It must not be very much fun. He told me he was going to go home and never come back. Sometimes I just have to ignore him. If I give him attention or try to talk to him, he can't think through his emotions and it gets worse. After lunch, I was letting all the 1st graders inside. He was bothering a neighbor, so I quietly asked him to go to the end of the line. He folded his arms, said he hated school and that he was going home to never come back! He proceeded to walk around the school.
I got my class in place inside, had a teacher watching out for them, and left to go find this child. I caught my principal, got her in on the situation. The vice-principal and secretary were busy. I couldn't find him, so I got them to call him on the loudspeaker.
As I walked back to my classroom, I ran into the vice-principal and my co-worker with my very frantic runaway student! It was good they found him first. He was in a terrible frantic worried that he was going to be in BIG trouble. The vice-principal was so very nurturing to him and I was able to be so as well. I have to say, though, that if I had caught him first, the last thing I would have wanted to act was nurturing! I was able to think of him in a different light, let him know why I was so concerned, and we ended up creating the "thinking chair". If he got sent there, it wasn't because I was angry at him or loved him any less, but give him the "think time" to cool down, think through his thoughts and join back up with us when he was ready. It's a safe place, but out of the way and in one of my "fun" chairs. It's really just a time-out, but I'll never say that. It's more of a "positive time-out". :) Since then, I decided that my whole class could use knowing about the "thinking chair", so anyone could use it. We'll see what happens, since I've been out of school since I implemented it. I'll have to write updates on the "thinking chair".
I love 1st grade and I LOVE to teach!!! No, really. I promise! :)
I thought I should probably post something funny instead of just all this sickness and depressing stuff.
This is what makes teaching 1st grade so interesting and NEVER boring.
I have a student this year that is prone to tantrums a few times a day. I have this game that I play with the kids. It's called I have cards. This particular one is of the alphabet and the order. The first card is longer and talks about being the first card and being a. Who has B? The next student would have a card that says something like . . . I have B. Who has the card that comes after B. Anyhow, it's great for knowing the alphabet order, reading a familiar read, and being on their toes.
I give my tantrum student the first card because he is my best reader and can read the words. He was upset to have that card again. I quietly told him that I give him that card because he's such a good reader, but that I'll give him another card. I gave his card to someone else. He had a change of heart real quick, but I'd already given his card to someone else. He threw a little tantrum and threw his card on the ground. I picked it up and tried to hand it to him. He wouldn't take it, so when it was his turn I read his. I dismissed everyone to lunch by calling their card. I told this student he could line up, but he was so upset by this card that he folded his arms and wouldn't line up. He yelled out (as he often does) and declared he wasn't going to lunch. I ended up giving him a little countdown and he got in line. He loudly complained all the way to the lunchroom, despite our quiet zone in the hallway. I figured I was doing pretty well to have him in line and ignored the loud complaining.
The next day, he had his daily tantrum. I really feel bad for him. It must not be very much fun. He told me he was going to go home and never come back. Sometimes I just have to ignore him. If I give him attention or try to talk to him, he can't think through his emotions and it gets worse. After lunch, I was letting all the 1st graders inside. He was bothering a neighbor, so I quietly asked him to go to the end of the line. He folded his arms, said he hated school and that he was going home to never come back! He proceeded to walk around the school.
I got my class in place inside, had a teacher watching out for them, and left to go find this child. I caught my principal, got her in on the situation. The vice-principal and secretary were busy. I couldn't find him, so I got them to call him on the loudspeaker.
As I walked back to my classroom, I ran into the vice-principal and my co-worker with my very frantic runaway student! It was good they found him first. He was in a terrible frantic worried that he was going to be in BIG trouble. The vice-principal was so very nurturing to him and I was able to be so as well. I have to say, though, that if I had caught him first, the last thing I would have wanted to act was nurturing! I was able to think of him in a different light, let him know why I was so concerned, and we ended up creating the "thinking chair". If he got sent there, it wasn't because I was angry at him or loved him any less, but give him the "think time" to cool down, think through his thoughts and join back up with us when he was ready. It's a safe place, but out of the way and in one of my "fun" chairs. It's really just a time-out, but I'll never say that. It's more of a "positive time-out". :) Since then, I decided that my whole class could use knowing about the "thinking chair", so anyone could use it. We'll see what happens, since I've been out of school since I implemented it. I'll have to write updates on the "thinking chair".
I love 1st grade and I LOVE to teach!!! No, really. I promise! :)
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