The coach calls your name, the referee blows the whistle, he signals for you. It’s time for you to go into the game. Yes, you! It’s time! Not tomorrow. Not later today. Right now! Whether you’re ready or not, it’s your turn! Get going!
When the pandemic first started, panic set in. Questions like: how are teachers going to teach, how are students going to take tests, and when are students going to have recess (yes, a parent asked that one) were being asked. Emails about how to digitally teach flooded our inboxes faster than toilet paper being taken off shelves. We were given resource after resource, app after app, meeting after meeting. It was a technology overload!
If you had a moment where you wanted to push away your device and cry while eating a bucket of ice cream, I promise you weren’t the only one. That’s normal …and delicious. If you miss your students and wish you were back in the classroom, you aren’t alone either. We all do! Right now your job is to teach in front of a 15 inch screen and you can do it!
Here are my “Lucky 7” tips:
1. Whatever you’re doing, you’re doing enough. The fact that you’re trying is a great start. Good job! Keep doing whatever it that you’re doing. The kids are learning.
2. Speaking of which…you ARE doing a good job! You’re using the same app again and again…so what? You’re trying your best and I bet you’re getting better at it.
3. Read a book or attend a virtual PD. Most are FREE and your district is offering them daily when you’re available. Some are free or discounted with digital download. The best part…you can be in your pajamas with your coffee in hands.
4. Ask for help. Experts are available 24/7. If that isn’t your style, ask your colleagues, your admin, or even your child. You’re not alone in this. Reach out to someone. Friends and experts will help you. I will help you.
5. Have fun! Create weekly challenges for your kids! Dress up days (check the national calendar), lip sing songs, have story time! Smile! Give virtual high fives.
6. Learn something new once a week & use it! Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, social media is overloaded with great ideas. You don’t have to sign up, just type in the search bar or just a #hashtag. Bonus points if it’s not school related.
7. Relax. Stopping checking your email. It’s five o’clock. That Dojo message can wait. Go binge watch Ozark. The dog really is dying to play fetch and you want some fresh air anyway. By the way…your husband and daughter are hungry.
10 Apps/ websites my students are using:
· Google Classroom
· Flipgrid
· Nearpod
· EpicBooks
· ThingLink
· Padlet
· News-o-Matic
· Prezi
· Haiku Deck
· Book Creator
Just know this: You are enough! You’re students are learning. You’re learning a lot too! You’re doing a great job!
