Boosting Enthusiasm

With so much of a focus on testing, data, assessments, and accountability, it can drag even the most positive teachers down.  What can we do on a daily basis to keep our enthusiasm up?  

We can...

*Learn to listen to a child tell all about a wonderful new book he or she is reading...

*Ask a child how he or she is feeling after being sick.  This interest will help them connect with us even more...

*Be grateful when students ask you if you will eat lunch with them...

*Be thankful when students show enthusiasm for a lesson you are teaching.

*Appreciate when students laugh at something you say (I guess I'm not that dry after all...) 

*Listen to students when they share their problems with you, and offer your support...

*Give students sincere smiles and positive words...

*Provide lots of time for authentic learning through read aloud, independent reading, cooperative group work, and thoughtful independent work...

*Communicate honestly with students about your expectations so your day will run smoothly...

*Praise students and give specific feedback when possible so as to reinforce behaviors that are desired...

*Realize that children are the reason why we are doing this job...

*Understand that teaching is a unique profession, and not everyone is called to do it...we are blessed...

*Realize that tomorrow is another day to accomplish more...

*Know that our presence makes a difference...

*Trust that our efforts are indeed worth the time and energy we put forth each day...

*Know that kids deserve the best we can give them, and keep focusing on keeping it real, every day.

I need to reflect on many of these reminders each and every day.