Back to School...How are you feeling? 5 Things to consider as you start the term.

Firstly - I want to address the monkey in the room…

As we head back into school after a break there can be a sense of anxiety, apprehension and worry attached to this transition for everyone involved.

It is important to remember though that it is actually very normal to have these feelings at this point because we have all allowed ourselves to get out of routine and ‘switch off’ - this is just a natural reaction to having the downtime you have all needed and deserved.

With this in mind – I have put together some food for thought for you to consider to help you prepare yourself for the term ahead…

Let’s Do This!

1. Keep your basic rules and ethos of the school and classroom very simple, very clear and very consistent. Ready, respectful and safe is a good example of simple rules as they apply to everything expected and support personal development. However, remember the children need to understand exactly what the words and rules mean and what the expected behaviours look like. Spend time delving into and discussing the rules and expectations in the first sessions back and weave them into your daily language and practice from here on in to promote understanding and consistency.

2. Don’t expect perfection in the classroom and choose your battles wisely. You have to look after your own wellbeing too so trying to get little Jonny to sit up straight with his arms folded and back straight for half and hour while you read a story is going to bend your brain unnecessarily. Yes your classroom is not a youth club and nor can it be treated that way – but a compromise in your mindset and approach in regards to a more relaxed environment may be conducive to relationship building, trust and mutual respect all round which, in turn, will support effective teaching and learning and personal development.

3. Consider that some of your children may be feeling anxious, and the reasons for this may stem from deeper routes than the classroom and extend further than the school gates. This can display as behaviour that is confrontational, defiant and disruptive, or quiet, disengaged and apathetic – behaviours that don’t fit into the ‘usual’ classroom expectations. Over the next few weeks take the time to get to know them and what makes them tick – make a point of spending some time with them when appropriate, show an interest in them and their lives by chatting about everything and anything in passing during downtimes etc. This will not only help you see their bigger picture, but also show them you are bothered and care about them regardless of their behaviour – yes you have boundaries but you are, and will continue to be, there for them. Showing the children your human side will have a massive impact on relationships and as a result will help to create a happier, calmer, more respectful environment for all involved.

4. Greet your children at your classroom door EVERY morning (or at least as often as you can) – and greet them like it is the best part of your day- big smiles, high fives, fist bumps – whatever you and they feel comfortable doing – just make them feel loved, wanted and special and do it regularly - make it a habit.

5. Be the adult you wanted in school. Remember why you came into your job in the first place -because you love children and want to help them be the best they can be - not just the compliant ones – ALL children, because you’re a creative and amazing human being that has a desire and gift to bring learning to life and develop positive relationships with children and young people that will inspire them as they grow and develop. Use these reasons as the foundation of your approach over the coming term and beyond and you will never go far wrong!