Ten Things I've Learned From Teaching Linky Party

Jennifer at Rowdy in First Grade is hosting a Ten Things I've Learned From Teaching Linky Party. Click here to join this fun and reflective Linky party!

 1. Graphic organizers are the bomb(dot)com and help students become successful readers and writers.  Use them!

2.  If a band aid won't do the trick, lotion will.

3.  Facial tissue and Elmer's Glue don't mix.  They do make "pretty spider webs in the snow" as one of my sweet angels told me.

4. Put small inspirational quotes around the room just for you.  These are wonderful reminders on the hardest of days.  Here are my favorites and where I have them placed.  Across the top of my computer monitor : "The secret to education is respecting the pupil."  On my desk: "They may not remember exactly what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel."   On the magnetic dry erase marker holder:  "Give positive pushes, not negative shoves."  On my dry erase rolling thingy: "Kids are like mirrors they will reflect our attitudes in life."                            *These are not my personal quotes, only ones that I have found to be inspirational.*

 5.  Want to get students' attention?  Use Justin Beiber, a Jonas Brother, or whoever is popular at the time in story, math problem, or example.

6. Not every lesson is going to turn out the way you planned.  Sometimes it turns out so much better than you expected and other times, not so much.  Every time is a learning experience.

7.   You can get a hundred cute ideas from other teachers but you have to find out what works for your kids.  If you do an activity and the kids didn't get the concept, it is not necessarily a bad activity.  "Reflect" on the presentation.

8.  It is not true that teachers are on their feet all day.  Part of the day is spent on our knees, "pockets," and all fours.

9.   Taking away recess can sometimes be a punishment for the teacher.

10.  Love what you do.   


What has teaching taught you?  I can't wait to read it!