TL;DR: Self-care isn’t always bubble baths and massages—it’s also learning to say “no.” To improve your quality of life, it’s important to know when to stop activities that do not allow you to fully operate in your gifts. Self-care has to be about clearly defining what is most important in life and prioritizing. When we let go of those things … Read More
Summer S.E.E.D.S.
TL;DR: Teachers are in need of a summer break. While we are good at relaxing, we may not be as good at recharging. We can recharge if we commit to follow five steps for self-care: sleep, exercise, efficacy (intentionally build capacity), diet, and social connectedness. I have heard more teachers utter this phrase in the past month than I can … Read More
It’s All a Blur: Lessons Learned From Endings & Beginnings
TL;DR: Reflect on the lessons learned from the endings and beginnings you experience. To prevent the blur, reflect on the beginning and identify what you learned at the end. Create concrete ways to apply those lessons. How often do you reflect on your life, instructional practice, or progress towards accomplishing goals? Do you wait until it’s time to create resolutions … Read More
Engage Until the End: Reflecting on the End of the Year
TL;DR: Reflect by creating a visual timeline, class memory book, or slideshow. Culminating projects to show what students learned during the year include a book sales pitch with their favorite books showcased, summer or year-end BINGO cards, or a game of Family Feud. Proper closure to the year is important. Some ideas include writing a letter to their next year’s … Read More
Reframe Your Misunderstandings
TL;DR: Misunderstandings happen. Without clarity, we naturally react but it doesn’t have to end on a negative note. We can have control over the situation. You may be feeling fear. Consider your part in the misunderstanding. Accept there is a misunderstanding. Look for lessons learned from it. Reach out for support from trusted friends. Move on. Another day, another misunderstanding. … Read More