by: Debbie Michailidis, Educator & Curriculum Developer, TDSB
I have been teaching for 20 years. I admit I still get nervous on Labour Day as I anticipate a new year, a new group of students and many other unknowns. Here are 5 tips I have learned from mentors and years of practice.
1. Build relationships before the curriculum. It’s always been about the students and getting to know them. When they trust you, they will learn from you and respect you. It starts with the intention of getting to know these souls who are looking to us for guidance and inspiration. This applies to teaching in-person and online.
2. Have fun. Life is short! At the end of the day, ask yourself this: did the kids learn and did they have fun while learning? Ask yourself if YOU are having fun. My approach has always been to enjoy what I’m teaching. If I’m not enjoying it, I will either cut it short or find a way to make it more engaging.
3. Have a growth mindset. Try something new this term. Whether a new edtech tool or a teaching strategy – be comfortable with learning alongside your students. Take risks, make mistakes and expand your knowledge.
4. Social connections at work matter. Find time to connect with your peers throughout the day. Find a mentor. Social connections at work add to quality of life. There are so many studies that back this up. Think about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. We need each other. It takes a village. You get it.
5. Take care of yourself and your family first. If you’re happy, your students are happy! Teacher wellbeing is just as important as student wellbeing. You can’t give from an empty well. Find strategies to keep you centred throughout the day. I take a moment of pause at least once an hour. I take three deep breaths to reset and bring me back to the moment. Teaching is intense and demands so much of us all day. Find your bliss.
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