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Smooth Sailing into Spring

Identify the trouble spots in the school day? No one has a perfect classroom---we certainly don't have 100% perfect classrooms. We're always looking for ways to make improvements and smooth out the rough spots. Are there any times during the school day that you are not happy with? Perhaps there is a lot of time wasted when children arrive in the morning. Or, does the class get "away from you" when returning to the room after recess or lunch? March is a perfect time to establish a new routine to smooth out a trouble spot. Identify what you want to change and decide what you want children to do. Teach the new routine to the class, model it, role-play it, practice and review it until it becomes automatic. When children ask why you are making the change, you can always tell the class "It's a March thing." Every teacher knows when spring fever hits, classroom management becomes more of a challenge. You'll want to smooth out the rough spots before you see the first signs of spring fever!

March is a great time for a fresh start. It's opportunity time for teachers to try new things and tweak classroom routines! When things run smoothly, teachers are more energized and enthusiastic. Do whatever you can to make your classroom a positive place to work and learn for you and your students.

Best wishes ~