The end of the school year is a big transition for students (and teachers). Don’t just let the year fizzle to a close—end your year with memorable, meaningful, and reflective activities. Celebrate the experiences you shared, highlight what’s special about every child in your classroom, and leave students with a sense of accomplishment and belonging. Sounds like a tall order,…
Read More
Meaningful Ways to Provide Closure at the End of the School Year
Give Your Students the Ultimate Challenge: Show Gratitude on a Regular Basis
Science says it’s natural for people to focus more on negative thoughts than on positive ones. Emotions like fear, doubt, and shame produce stress chemicals in the brain, which drive negative thinking. This can be even more true for children, who are still navigating their places in the world. One way to shift negative thought patterns is to develop an…
Read More
The Benefits and Pitfalls of Using End-of-Year Awards
In 2017, a middle school in Georgia presented end-of-year awards at a school assembly. Students received beautiful glass trophies with their names engraved on them. In front of the entire school, a girl with ADHD was awarded “Most Likely to Not Pay Attention.” Meanwhile, in Houston, Texas, a 13-year-old girl received a certificate that named her “Most Likely to Become…
Read More
Your Happy Heart Activities and Review
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure here. You know I love a great picture book and this one, Your Happy Heart by Amie Dean, is a true gem. Javon is a 5th grader who has the opportunity to work with a kindergarten book buddy. His excitement turns to disappointment after he meets Richard, a quiet, reserved…
Read More
Ideas for Using Positive Affirmations in Your Classroom
Positive affirmations are a powerful tool that promote positive self-talk. They are self-esteem boosters and anxiety reducers that lead to improved well-being for both children and adults. Of course, this makes them a great addition to any classroom—especially for kiddos who struggle with confidence or may not receive much positivity at home. Examples of positive affirmations include: I am enough….
Read More
