Want Positive Behavior? Use Positive Language

As we head towards the final month of school, it would be easy for us to simply focus on the finish.  But we are better than that.  We have one more month to impact our students.  One more month to show them how much we care.  And most importantly...one more month of learning.  The article below is a quick-read.  It has some reminders for us about how we talk and the impact it has on our students.  Let's be honest...we can all use a reminder and pick-me-up during this time of year.  Our kids need it too! 

Major Points of the Article (for those who won't open it):

An overall tone of safety and caring is largely set by the adults' positive language—what they say and how they say it

• Convey Belief in Children:  Adults can use positive language to help children build that self-perception.
• Use Direct Language:  Whether giving directions, noting positive behaviors, prompting children to remember rules, stopping misbehavior, or holding a discussion, it's important to use clear, direct language that is free of innuendo or sarcasm
• Reinforce Positive Behaviors:  Reinforcing language identifies and affirms students' specific positive actions and encourages them to continue their appropriate behavior.
• Language Matters:  Our words and tone of voice have a profound effect on children.

http://www.responsiveclassroom.org/article/want-positive-behavior-use-positive-language

Our Concord Core Beliefs

At Concord School, we promise to open our doors to the community to provide students with a safe, inviting, and positive experience where students can dare to dream and reach their full potential.

At Concord School, we believe learning is constant when it is meaningful, individualized, and engaging.

At Concord School, we believe learning is a life long journey which happens through patience, caring and encouragement.

At Concord School, we believe learning is most effective when parents and teachers come together to meet the unique needs of students in a nurturing and engaging environment.

Triptico...free, on-line tech resources

Triptico...free, on-line tech resources: http://www.triptico.co.uk/
If you have not already, I encourage you to go to this website above and told the Triptico tech resources. They are awesome. Things such as class magnets (awesome for word study), a class timer, class roster (it will randomly call on students for you), and much more are all a part of this easy download.

Coaching Children in Handling Conflicts

It is no secret that this time of year comes with great anticipation for the testing season, daily joys with students' grasping concepts that have been difficult for them all year, and unfortunately, student conflicts. As students return from recess, drama often walks in the door as well. As we continue our work as a district of character, it is important for us to give our students tools for handling conflicts. I hope the attached article will help give you some new ideas in how to help your students with their peer conflicts.
The main points:
Cooling off when upset
Speaking directly to each other
Speaking assertively, honestly, and kindly
Listening carefully to others and accurately paraphrasing their words
Proposing solutions and agreeing on a solution to try
The article can be found at: http://www.responsiveclassroom.org/article/coaching-children-handling-everyday-conflicts

A great buddy activity on integrity!

Writers workshop!!

Kindergarteners writing books!!