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
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
The Gift of Gratitude
TL;DR: There is a difference between gratitude and thankfulness in both English and Chinese languages. Gratitude can be cultivated. Practice mindful gratitude moments to help nurture a grateful mindset and heartset. Take the Gift Better Challenge to practice gratitude. There is great power in words. Read tips on how to show deeper gratitude with our words. Gratitude is meant to … Read More
Your Mind Matters: Mental Health Awareness Month
TL;DR: We must recognize that teachers have done a lot to empathetically support students and their families since the pandemic hit. Some tips: You don’t have to struggle alone; seek help from a professional if needed. Zoom out to see the bigger picture. Take time for yourself and don’t wait until you run out of gas and are running on … Read More