2 Stars and a Wish for Back to School Time

Hello, Friends!

Today, I am linking up with Mandy from Mandy's Tips for Teachers to bring you 2 helpful hints to get your school year off to a great and smooth start.

Read below to learn 2 ideas that work great for that first week back to school and one wish that I have for the upcoming school year. 

First,I love using consensograms in my classroom.  I didn't take any pictures of my gallery walk last year.  So, thank you to Ginger from Ginger Snaps for having some great examples on her blog pictured below.  That first few days back is scary and awkard for both teacher and students.  By giving them a chance to get up and move the students begin to feel a little more relaxed.  As a teacher, you get some authentic data to learn about your kiddos.  It's so important to make good connections that first week back.  

So, decide on some questions to ask.  Write them on chart paper.  Give your students some stickers and have them walk around the room and answer the questions

Second, there's an old saying that food is the way to a man's heart.  I think food is the way to anyone's heart.  Food can be comforting.  What better way to get your students feeling a little less nervous than some food. I loved the idea of "Jitter Juice" and so did my students.   Once again, I didn't take any pictures of my students enjoying their jitter juice so thank you to the fabulous Cara from The First Grade Parade for the picture below.

All you have to do is read the book First Day Jitters. {LOVE this book} Then, make the Jitter Juice and enjoy.  I immediately saw my students "loosen up" and begin talking a little more. Their smiles at the end of the day are always worth it! 

Third, I have a confession to admit.  I am the world's worst person when it comes to organizing. My desk is always clean at the end of the day, but things are stuffed and crammed in cabinets and drawers.  Out of sight, out of mind. Right? Well, my wish is to be more organized this year. I'm getting rid of my teacher desk, so that should help.  I love the little e-card below.  I'm always more concerned with my little smarties and making sure they are engaged and learning.  Then, I clean like there is no tomorrow when I know there's a visitor coming.  

If you enjoyed these ideas make sure to follow me on Facebook or Instagram for some more great ideas.

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Lots of love,
Jeannie