TL;DR: We give our students many things but the greatest gifts we can give are our love and our heart. Give students a piece of our heart by giving them a visual reminder as a gift. Put your heart into what you do and share your love with students. There can be a lasting impact. Speak life through the words … Read More
The Gift of Happiness: 6 Keys to Cultivating Happiness
TL;DR: Happiness can be cultivated in simple ways in the classroom. There are 6 keys to cultivating happiness. Happiness is a mindset and a heartset. It is a gift you can give to yourself and others. Happiness is something you can protect. In my experience, when I ask young children how they feel, many will say “happy.” When I ask the … Read More
Being Human Is Not Unprofessional
TL;DR: The #RelationshipsFirst movement: Students are more likely to learn when they have a positive relationship with you and get to know you too. We connect better with others who we know, value, and respect. Share stories about life experiences and show humanity to students every day. Their experiences may be similar so by sharing, you have become someone else … Read More
The Art of Relationships
TL;DR: There are many ways to establish and maintain relationships. These tips were previously shared on a Daily Drop In on August 17, 2021. Tips: (1) See relationships as GIFTS. (2) GREET warmly and by name daily. (3) Show GRATITUDE. (4) Be GENUINE. Be you. (5) GO beyond by doing small things for others like offering help. (6) Make an … Read More
New Year, New Relationships, New Opportunities
TL;DR: As students return to school, they may not be at the “level” we need them to be. Some tips as students return: Interact and build relationships with your students by connecting with their interests and start making a plan for how best to get support for them. Content becomes easier to teach after you build relationships. Take one day … Read More