Back from Vegas with so much to share. Ok now this was my first time attending the conference and oh my gosh, it was unbelievable! I did not miss one session, my notebook is filled with incredible ideas, quotes, crafts, you name it! I met so many talented teachers, and it made me proud to be part of an amazing profession. So...I wish I could share my whole entire notebook with you but instead I decided to list my TOP 10!
When I went back through my notes these are the things that had extra stars all around them. Some simple, and some I was jumping out of my chair when I heard how simple teaching life can be. So sit back, and please let me know what you think because it means a lot when I hear your comments really...it means a lot.
10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1,HERE WE GO!
During the conference I made a list of things to do to make sure I did not forget. Now I have a checklist for summer to find those one of a kind items!
This is so true. The minute your kiddos and parents walk through your classroom door they have an impression of what kind of teacher you are going to be. So make that first impression a lasting one. You can create an inviting environment that engages both your new kiddo and their parents with scavenger hunts, a photo booth, and a little treat to bring home.
I always try to teach too many games...too confusing. Start the school year with one game and teach it good! Then add a few more. As the months change you can add seasonal items to the game.
Kim Adsit showed us this and I has one of those teacher moments where I looked like I won the lottery....how simple and easy. Books are easy to flip through and students can access CD's right there to listen to the book.
Every speaker said this! Kids need change. Yes I know this takes a lot of time and effort but it's worth it. It goes along with the idea of teaching the same game but using different game pieces to change it up. Go to the dollar store and find those magical treasures that will excite your kiddos to learn.
I was making my anchor charts over every single year. Now we all know that is very time consuming. "The Reveal," will change your life....
I am changing my classroom to a chalkboard theme this year so I was excited to hear this simple fact. I LOVE when I learn those inside teacher secrets!
Of course we all know that kiddos need everything in their little kinder world to make sense well, THIS MAKES SENSE! We don't want sick markers....
Start with the positive always. Make that summer visit or phone call that can make the difference in your school year. Make the effort to send that friendly email to parents when something good happens instead of always focusing on the bad.
Don't, and I mean don't let teachers or parents tell you that you do all the "cute" projects with no meaning. You can even address this at Back To School Night to explain to parents the learning that is involved in your projects.
If you have any questions about my TOP 10 just leave me a comment and I am happy to elaborate to help you get started. Start saving for next year because Vegas is not to be missed!