I have been trying to be more reflective in my teaching this year. This is year 12 for me and I have to find ways to keep it fresh! I have had success the past couple of weeks posting something special that happened each day. Sometimes it is a great thing I want to remember and other times it is something I need to change for the next time I implement that lesson.

Today I had a special Magical Moment of the Day. My second grade class came in and most kids went to their music square very nicely. One kid came in and sprawled out a bit and my initial reaction was of course to say “Please get in your space criss-cross applesauce” but the grin on the kid’s face made me hesitate so I simply asked “What are you doing?” and he replied “I’m a half note!” I went over and gave him a high five! We have been studying half notes and just did a lesson talking about how half notes take up two beats (or two beat-boxes on the papers we were working on) and this kid COMPLETELY got it! Yeah!!!! Plus, he’s just a cool kid.

I am so glad I took the time to ask what was going on. If I hadn’t, I would have missed the great opportunity to let this kid share what he knows! He would have felt scolded for doing a good job and I would have never known how much my lesson really stuck with him. I hope I always remember to give kids the benefit of the doubt! Sometimes it REALLY works out!

Wrapping Things Up

My final advice? When in doubt, bake cookies! (Pillsbury makes an excellent pull apart cookie dough, I must say). A dozen cookies on someone’s desk can make them feel warm and gooey inside (pun intended). This strategy has been around since the beginning of time and is a tried and true method.

If you are new at school and looking for lessons for the first day, you might also enjoy this post on first day lesson plans! 

Who did I miss? Any other key people in school we should add?

Musically,

Shelley

picture of Shelley Tomich

I'm busy mom of three and music educator in Atlanta, GA. My passion is helping busy music teachers deliver time saving, engaging lessons so you have more time to enjoy your life! Click my photo to learn more! Teach music. Love life.

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