Let’s face it, as a teacher I have never worked harder in my life. Learning to teach from home with no human contact has been a challenge. I miss my students, I miss my team of amazing teachers, and I miss the routine of going to work every day.
For many of us, there is technology being thrown at us that we have never used. We are using video conferencing like it is going out of style. Our bodies ache from being hunched over a computer screen all day long.
But I want to tell you you are doing great. This is not a post about complaining about our current situation, but about how we can find the good in it.
Food for Thought
If you are wondering about what is good about this situation, let me help you see the positives.
- Learning: Although learning is coming at us fast and furious, you are forced to learn some new ideas, new strategies, and new technology. Maybe it is using Google Classroom for the first time so when you return to your classroom you can go paperless. Or using some really cool teacher tech like Pear Deck, Gimkit, or Edpuzzle. Those are all tools that will enhance your classroom when you return in the fall.
- Students: This time of planning lets us get to know our students a bit better. How you choose to communicate with students will allow you to make better connections and learn who they are on a different level than in the classroom. Often we get to work with students one on one or in small groups during conference calls. Maybe you are learning about your students’ home life, hobbies, or interests. Those all help you be a better teacher and make stronger connections with your students.
- Forced to see the positive: We are forced to see the positive during this time. If you haven’t got there and you are still wondering what is positive about this situation, George Couros is giving a daily hashtag to help you out. You can join in and practice being positive and grateful. Those are definitely skills we have to practice. It does not come naturally for many of us. #yourdailyawwwwww
- Time for connections: Many of us have been able to connect with family and friends we don’t often have time for. If you haven’t yet, make the time to reconnect. This slower pace, less scheduled life is giving us that opportunity.
- Growing and learning: You have been given the time to grow and learn during this time. Although it might seem overwhelming at times, it is a blessing. It is important to always be teachable and to always keep learning. Live by that motto. If we don’t as teachers, how can we expect our students?
Remember that you are not in this alone. We are all in this together. That should take the stress off. It is Ok to breakdown, cry or to feel overwhelmed. Just remember to reach out and get help. We are all feeling the same. Some days are great, others we feel like we are barely surviving. Just know those feelings are normal. After all, this too shall end.
Tips for Staying Sane
- Try Meditation
- Do some yoga
- Take a walk
- Turn off the news
- Reconnect with old friends or family members
- Learn something new
Get Social
If you have questions, let’s talk in the Creative ASL Teaching Facebook group.
Join the conversation in our Facebook group.
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Distance Learning Lessons and Activities
Creative ASL Teaching has some lessons and activities all ready to go to help you during this time. Some require little to no modification to complete online. Check out the store.
