Light in the Learning

Spring Break has come to a close. Anytime I am off from teaching I love to reflect on all aspects of the classroom.

One thing I have noticed after being back in the classroom is that expectations I set for my students sometimes I have a hard time following as well. Oops did I just admit that?!

Social and behavior management skills are a big part of the daily routines we work on in the classroom. Responding in an appropriate way when angry, upset, frustrated, etc.; knowing how to speak to others in all types of situations, things that sometime we expect, but also struggle with ourselves.

I first noticed how inadequate I was at some of these expectations with my own girls. I would rush them, expect quick results, and immediate action just “because I said so!” I would label it disobedience or even defiance. Then the roles would flip. They would ask me for something and all of a sudden the expectations would change. They weren’t allowed to expect quick results and immediate action. They were required to show patience in the waiting. They were not allowed to expect anything from me, except what I wanted them to. One day it dawned on me, “They learn from you, so what is it you are going to teach them?”

Will you teach them patience only when it works for you? Do the expectations only apply to others?

As I continue to work in education, I have noticed how, we as adults still have so much to learn. Kids operate in the now; I must have this and it’s almost impossible to think past the feeling I have, and anyone who gets in the way, I must make them understand why what I want is important whether it’s positive or negative.

Adults and children aren’t that much different sometimes, sometimes the only difference is one is just taller than the other.

After thinking and reflecting, I think it’s time to bring back the pause.

Practice the pause.

Pause before you react.

Pause before you respond.

Pause before opinions are given.

Pause before critiques are made.

If you do, you will likely develop those skills that a lot of us desperately still need. Skills like self-control in your actions, gentleness in your talk, kindness in your character, peace in your heart, forbearance for conflicts, joy in the daily, goodness at your core, and a love for all.

With love,

Tori