Advice for New Teachers!

Today I'm linking up with Flying into First Grade for her Let's Get Aquainted Linky Party!

This week's topic is:  Advice for New Teachers!  So here goes...

First, let me say, "Congratulations!"  You are so lucky you chose this awesome profession!

Buy

Invest in your feet!  You will be on your feet for 7+ hours a day!  You will move around the room quickly and walk the kids across campus at times.  You may have duty (more standing and moving).  You will be up and down on the carpet and helping kiddos do lots of things.  Take care of your feet! :)

Always

Listen to your students!  Really listen.  You will learn so much more about each individual student if you listen.  Let them talk to each other and listen to those conversations (it's not eavesdropping if you're the teacher :)  )  You might discover their interests, struggles, worries, or dreams!  You can also assess so many skills by just listening!

Never

Never get into a power struggle with a six year old!  It doesn't accomplish what you want and YOU won't win.  Be calm and consistent when a struggle begins!  Refer to the above advice and Listen!  Remember, you are the adult!

Find

You will meet many students during your career.  You will spend 6+ hours a day, 180 days with these precious little ones.  Find something to love about every one of them.  If you don't, they will know!  Each and every one of them is someone's baby!

Make

Make emergency sub plans!  You never know when you may need these, and I hope you never do!  But, just in case, it's best to be prepared.  Make a plan for a stand alone day that you can prep and have ready in the event you need it.  If you ever do need it, you will be happy you took the time to prepare!

Be

Be Kind to your students, staff, parents...everyone!  Your students will catch you if you're not.  Even when you get frustrated with a child, parent, or teacher, take the high road and model kindness for your students!

I'll finish with this thought.  Teaching is the greatest profession.  I've been teaching for 16 years and never dread going to work!  Make sure everyday is fun and engaging for your students and you will have fun and be engaged right along with them!  

Good luck and have a great year!