Two Simple Strategies to Help Teachers Before Spring Break
This Monday Ideas is for your teachers!
Spring Break is coming and students are ready, just like you. To help you get through the next week or two, when you are a bit overwhelmed, here are two ideas to try that are simple and very powerful.
Before you react to a student who has pushed too many buttons, pause.
When a student challenges you, your body reacts first with your heart rate up, jaw tight, voice rising. That’s adrenaline. Instead of trying to prove a point, try this:
In five seconds you can prevent a power struggle:
Stop talking.
Take one slow breath.
Lower your voice.
Invite the student into the hallway to talk. No need for a lecture. Keep your voice calm and say:
“It looks like things aren’t going well for you and I in class. When we walk back in, what can I do as your teacher so things go better for you?
“What can you do when we walk back into class so things go better for both of us?”
Notice small accomplishments especially for students who don’t seem to try as hard as others. Small acknowledgments accumulate into bigger successes.
At times, when you assign roles to students to lead a team or start a group, choose a student who does not often get chosen:
“Sarah, I want you to lead this team in the science lab today. I look forward to seeing what you do.”
Seeing past descriptions of students can help you change their identities.
Have a strong week!
