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Routines and Getting Ready for Back to School
In most families, summertime means a relaxation of schedules and routines. But…here comes the school year! It’s time to get back into the swing of routines. More than just getting everyone out the door on time in the morning, routines help young people develop important life skills. Routines provide the external structure that children need…
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Back to School and the Importance of Routines
Routines in the classroom help students feel have a sense of order and stability: they invite a feeling of safety and security. Although setting up routines takes time and energy, once routines are established, you can simply refer to the routine it invites a sense of collaboration from students. “What is next on our schedule?”…
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Building Connection and Responsibility
There is now clear evidence that children learn better when they sense that they are part of a learning community that is safe and respectful. Learning how to participate and contribute to the classroom community is a big part of what builds their skills to be resourceful, respectful and responsible citizens of the larger world…
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Moving Into A Strong Finish
As the end of the school year approaches, students of all ages become more anxious and excited. It is a big transition as the rhythm of the school routine will not be there. They will not be with all of their friends and a teacher they care about. Many students also face uncertainty with their…
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Here Comes Summer!
Summer is almost upon us. Parents and children look forward to summer and it also creates some stress and anxiety with the shift from the rhythm and routines of the school year. Doing some preparation for this unique part of the year can increase everyone’s fun and decrease stress. It is important for children to…
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Beginning the New Year with your Family
January is a great time to help children review routines and focus on the brand new year ahead. It is common, after winter break and less structured environment during vacation, to notice that it is harder to get going and return to the family’s daily rhythm. Re-establishing routines works best when the process is intentional.…
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The New Year: Reflecting and Refreshing in the Classroom
The start of a new calendar year is a great time to help students reflect on renewal and hopes for the future. Many teachers find that routines that were quite polished in December seem to need a bit of refreshing in January, as well. You can integrate both of these ideas as you reflect on…
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December Without the “Dizzy” for Educators
There is a lot of excitement in December. Staying focused can be a challenge for us and for our students during this stressful season. With the anticipation of upcoming celebrations, and the needed break from school, the adults are often in countdown mode. This can look like a countdown calendar, parties and lots of talk about…
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From Unknown to Expected: Relief
Not knowing what will happen next is stressful. In our families, many times parents/caregivers have a sense of what will be happening next but the children don’t. For children, the fear of the unknown can include everything from a new food, who will or won’t be at the playground, to the divorce of parents. Children…
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Routines: Less Stress, More Time
Routines in your classroom are like the framework of your house. They hold it together while great things happen inside. Investing thought, time and energy into establishing routines creates a classroom that most often runs smoothly: frustration, interruptions and opportunities for misbehavior are minimized. Students feel safe and comfortable, and are more able to focus…
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