If your time to you is worth savin’
On Wednesday of remote learning week two, I notice my son has hair growing on his upper lip. When did that happen? I vaguely remember him saying he was shaving, but I clearly didn’t believe him. My post isn’t really about mustaches and eighth graders. Like many parents world-wide, this shift has been stressful for me. I wear many hats in my district, and this time of school closure has increased my workload. I feel the anxiety and stress creeping in the minute I wake up and ponder my “to do” list. Sound familiar?
And you better start swimmin’
Naturally, I’m trying hard to remember self-care, true self-care, as I help my district, school, students, and families navigate our new course. I drink around 100 ounces of water daily and take walks outside, weather permitting. I also remember to be mindful for at least a few minutes a day, and those help sustain me. Now that I’ve seen the ‘stache, I’m more intentional about paying attention to my teenager and family. It’s important.
Or you’ll sink like a stone
I’m also diligently keeping my assignments and activities for my students to a manageable level. That means, I understand things are different now for them. Drastically different. Some are without internet, social contact, safe places and the list goes on. All work sent home must have offline options by district mandate. Students have the choice between the paper version or the digital. Do I wish they all could do eLearning? Sure! Does that mean all my activities would be digital? No!
For the times they are a-changin’
As you continue to plan engaging and relevant activities for students to do at home, consider the following:
- We can’t hold students responsible for learning in an environment outside of our control.
- Work should be reduced from what is normally achieved during class time.
- Online and offline work should still be blended if you have those options.
- Creativity isn’t reliant upon online or offline. It thrives in both realms.
- Connecting with students is more important than ever.
Take care of yourselves, and reach out if you need help or support! We are all #BetterTogether, now more than ever.
#RocknTheBoat 