Start the year with success

The following is my weekly post to teachers and staff at my campus.  


January 2019 marks the 25th year since I started as an educator. A lot has changed since January of 1993. At the same time, much has stayed the same. A big part of that is because we are in the people business. While things change readily, the needs of people, particularly kids, rarely do. As I've been reflecting on how we can meet the needs of Northside kids this year, I've come up with the following short list. I'm sure you can come up with many more.

* Safety - "My job is to keep you safe. Your job is to help me keep you safe." People, young and old, respond positively when they feel safe. In unsafe situations, we tend to revert to our lower brain and go into fight or flight. So how can we help our kids feel safe? Several ways include

- following regular, predictable routines, procedures, and rituals;

- using an assertive voice and language;

- giving two positive choices to help kids feel more in control;

- being clear on expectations and consequences and then following through;

- having a schedule in place and always giving advanced notice of changes

- teaching assertive responses to negative behaviors from others

- giving a fresh start each day, no matter what occurred the day before

* Focus on strengths - As teachers, we are regularly looking at weak areas in our efforts to help kids get better. That is a big part of our job. Unfortunately, that can easily cause us to overlook our kids strengths. When we take the time to focus on strengths, it gives us a better picture of the whole child. It also lets them know that we see them for who they are and gives us points to encourage them. I encourage to you to make a list of your kids strengths and refer to it often as you interact with them every day.

* Hydration - No matter what age we are, the brain needs lots of water to function properly. Be sure your kids have water readily available and are drinking regularly.

* Breathing - Taking in oxygen through breathing is essential for our bodies to function properly, but how many of us really know how to breathe? Deep breathing takes focus and practice. Take time to practice deep breathing with your kids and don't be shy about helping them to take deeper breaths when you notice them starting to get upset or stressed. 

* Brain Breaks - The brain needs time to recharge before moving to new learning. When you notice your kids are getting antsy, it is time for a short break. GoNoodle, Brain Gym, stretching, and breathing are all good ways to stop and let the brain recharge before moving to something new.

* Remember, it's not about you! - Our kids bring lots of outside concerns into the building with them. Many are carrying burdens that adults would struggle with. Others have issues with brain chemistry and mental health. Many have not had positive role models to show them social skills. Some kids act out as a means to avoid something they see as negative or unsafe. As educators, we have to recognize that when kids act out, it rarely has anything to do with us personally. We just happen to be the ones who are there when the behavior occurs. We have to train ourselves to take a few deep breaths, remind ourselves that we are safe, and then respond to the behavior, hopefully by helping the child choose a better behavior.

* However, it is about you! - I know this sounds like a contradiction. What I mean is take care of yourself. We are in the care-giving business, but if we don't take care of ourselves, we will be hard pressed to help others. Find a time in your day to do something positive for yourself: Go to the gym, take a walk, take time to reflect on the good that is around you, eat well, spend quality time with the people you love. When you take care of yourself, you are better prepared to take care of others. 

These are just a few things to help us get the new year off to a good start. I'm sure you can add others to the list and would love to hear them.