Here are a few more idea
for you before school begins. You
know all of those love letters and pictures children draw for you each
year? Why not use a three-ring
notebook to save them so children will realize they are special to you? Keep the notebook in your classroom
library so the children can revisit it all year long.
Cheers and Goals
As you meet with parents at
the beginning of the year, ask them to write down several special things about
their child and three or four goals that they have for their child. This will let you know their priorities
and expectations. As you review
the list with them say, “This is how I can help (child) accomplish this
goal. What can you do to nurture
this skill at home?” This will
build a partnership and remind parents that have a powerful role to play in
their child’s education.
Under Construction –
Wrapped Up!
Clare Ashford has a great
idea to take “under construction” one step further.
“Before Meet the
Teacher night (before school starts), I wrap all my bookcases, computers, etc.
in butcher paper and then put an ‘under construction’ sign on them. It serves 2
purposes. 1- that way kids don't get into things while I'm busy talking to
people! and 2- we ‘unwrap’ the items together as a class when we're ready to
use whatever it is. It is very helpful and makes for an organized start to the
year!”
Key Ideas on a Key Chain (Teresa Whitehead)
Write words to songs, finger
plays, transition tips, etc. on index cards and punch a hole in them. Attach to a retractable key chain and
you can carry them with you wherever you go.