5 Classroom Strategies for Social Emotional Learning Support

Michele HaikenBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Social emotional learning is already integrated into everyday teaching, helping students develop essential life skills alongside academic knowledge. Teachers can enhance SEL by implementing intentional strategies, such as reflection for self-awareness, authentic assessments for social awareness, choice boards for responsible decision making, checklists for self-management, and promoting collaboration and cooperation for building relationship skills. These practices align with CASEL’s … Read More

Writing Is Breathing Out: Free Writing Matters

Kari PitstickBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The post emphasizes the importance of explaining the “why” behind classroom activities, such as free writing, to students. Benefits of free writing include boosting creativity, providing a safe space for expression, relieving stress, and improving communication skills. The author draws parallels between practicing writing and practicing sports or musical instruments, highlighting the value of preparation for future assignments and … Read More

Reading Is Breathing In: Book Choices Matter

Kari PitstickBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The post uses an analogy of weightlifting to explain the importance of choosing different levels of books. It categorizes books into painless (easy), on-target (comfortable), and challenging (difficult) levels, emphasizing the need to vary one’s reading choices to grow as a reader. Encourages students to primarily read on-target books but also occasionally challenge themselves with more difficult material while … Read More

Overcoming Setbacks

Suzanne RogersBlog, Lead Better, Manage Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Clear Vision: A strategic plan acts as a roadmap to success, providing clarity on goals and purpose. It helps maintain focus during setbacks, ensuring you don’t lose sight of your ultimate destination. Learning from Setbacks: Setbacks are valuable learning opportunities. Embrace them, reflect on what went wrong, and use these experiences to improve your strategies for continuous growth. Building … Read More

WOOP It Up This Year!

Suzanne DaileyBlog, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: The post discusses the WOOP goal-setting strategy as a way to transition from a summer state of rest and relaxation to a productive school year. WOOP stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan. It’s designed to help individuals set and achieve challenging yet feasible goals. The author’s personal example involves planning deliberate rest during the school year to maintain … Read More