On the first day of Christmas, my student gave to me, lots of dirty tissues...
Should have been writing about all the little things I've learned all along but I'm here now and hopefully consistently for the forseeable future.
Tell students if what they work hard on or make is not going to be taken home.
Always wear a fanny pack and have filled with essentials. Sunglasses, tissues, bells, trashbag, ect.
It won't be perfect, everyone around you is trying to help you get close to perfect though
3-year-olds can start zipping, putting things away, and taking jackets or gear off and on, so allow for extra time. This is what it is about and you can still be encouraging and there for them without doing it for them
However you are feeling, the kids will also feel and copy your behavior.
Ask to help, touch, move, or intervene in their personal space always, it teaches consent, set that example always
Don't give unsolicited advice, but teach through story and puppets
Assessment and taking notes on kids' progress is tedious but doesn't have to be perfect. Don't overthink, look for positives, knowledge, words, and accomplishments and write it down.
BE PRESENT. Watch the cardinal, look at the rollie pollie, laugh with them.
