TL;DR: Organizational strategies to keep kids organized and engaged. Creating schedules to share resources within a household. Implementing an at-home reward system. I asked a friend for some help with writing this blog post. I am admittedly not the most organized person, but am realizing what an important skill it is when trying to keep my own kids and myself … Read More
25 Ways to Express Gratitude
TL;DR: Strategies to express your gratitude. Expressing thanks regularly can help this mindset become a habit. During the recent global pandemic and subsequent quarantine, I found myself feeling more gratitude for the smaller, truly important things in life. A gorgeous sunset, for example. A cup of hot, black coffee. Sandra Bullock’s Instagram feed. But I digress. Remembering to feel the … Read More
The Teacher’s Role in the Grid Method
TL;DR: One teacher’s experience using the grid method. A focused look at the role of the teacher in the grid method. “So you don’t really teach anymore.” “The students teach themselves.” “When will I get to see you teach?” In implementing the grid method, I’ve heard them all and I’ve heard them a lot. So what is teaching and what … Read More
Promoting Student Engagement and Collaboration using Breakouts
TL;DR: An introduction the many ways breakouts can be used in your classroom. A “how to” for planning and implementing a breakout in your classroom. As a middle school teacher, I’m always looking for fun new ways to engage my students. Their current favorite? Breakouts! Planning a breakout can seem overwhelming, time consuming, and daunting. I’m here to help walk … Read More
Shame’s Role in Education
TL;DR: The role of shame in education, as told through a specific student case study. A journey through finding what works for kids. Steps to challenge the role of shame in education. “Shame is the intensely painful feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging.” -Brene Brown This was a tough week for me. One of my students, we’ll … Read More