TL;DR: Focus on using your strengths in teaching instead of dwelling on weaknesses. Recognize moments of flow and joy—they signal your natural strengths. Teachers who lean into their strengths find greater happiness and effectiveness in the classroom. Every teacher I’ve ever met wants to be even better at what they do. And there are many ways to grow and develop professionally. … Read More
Think Outside the Classroom: How Outdoor Learning Enhances Education
TL;DR: Outdoor learning can positively impact physical, mental, and social-emotional health, while offering real-world connections to curriculum. Starting small with structured routines can help students transition from “play” time to “learning” time outdoors. Even simple activities, like reading or math practice, can benefit from the outdoors, encouraging curiosity, resilience, and community connection. Each day in teaching brings new opportunities, fresh … Read More
Get Caught Off Guard
TL;DR: Being “caught off guard” can invite unexpected joy instead of disruption. Embracing small moments helps us stay present and find happiness in daily life. Letting joy surprise us can make life richer and more fulfilling. When you hear the phrase, “get caught off guard” do you think of being suddenly startled negatively? Like something goes left and it takes … Read More
Parent Communication in a Co-Teaching Classroom
TL;DR: Effective parent-teacher communication can positively impact student success. In co-teaching, aligning on communication strategies with parents is key to a strong partnership. Four ways to improve communication include consistent updates, using a shared platform, discussing messages beforehand, and sending positive notes. “Mrs. G, my mom told me what you said in the message.” His face brightened with a huge … Read More
Fill Up Your Mental Health Toolkit
TL;DR: Teaching requires balancing curriculum with social and emotional support for students. Strategies for maintaining mental health include organization, routines, and self-reflection. Connection, positivity, and making daily joyful choices contribute to a healthy teaching environment. Teaching is a rewarding, yet challenging profession. Not only are you responsible for teaching the curriculum to a classroom full of students, but for facilitating … Read More