Do you ever wonder whether your children are more inspired and creative than you are? A few months ago my ten-year old son invented an activity we began to call “Top 5’s”. First, you choose a subject, like “best memories” or “favorite movies” or “coolest superheroes.” Everyone playing the game takes a few minutes to…
Top 5 TRUE Teacher Hacks
Aren’t you just intrigued with idea of finding an amazing teacher hack? I am! But, if you’re like every teacher I know, you don’t have the time to read about time-saving strategies. I get it: both the reality and the irony. I decided to research some specific teacher hacks, proven by the test of time….
We Are All Learners Here
How effective are you in your classroom? How much do you want to grow your students? Being an effective teacher isn’t as much about your passion, or even about how much you love your students. Being a capital T Teacher—a badass teacher—requires one thing above all: student growth. What works best? What is most effective?…
Visible Gratitude
Maybe I’m a little old-fashioned in my reliance on books in this increasingly digital age. But I notice how when I am in deep quicksand, books always help me get unstuck, whether the challenge is spiritual, emotional, intellectual, or physical. They’ve been my greatest resource and best friend during my worst days. And books always…
The Challenges of Teaching Through the Holidays
It’s the day before Thanksgiving Break but my students already have their minds on Christmas. One sweet voice asks, “Can we please listen to Christmas music while we work in our centers?” I feel a little bit like Scrooge, insisting on maintaining rigor during our short week. So I say yes to music, even though…
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