"Kids Don't Learn From People They Don't Like"

So we did it! We survived day one!

Now how do we survive the rest of the week? The rest of the month? The rest of the year? I have a lot of tips but today I will leave you just one.

Tip of the Day: Make yourself a REINFORCER!

And because we all know now how much I love lists... I have a list 😄

1. Be fun! Sounds simple... it's because it is. And because Rita Pierson said it best "kids don't learn from people they don't like"! Have fun with your kids. Be engaging. Be crazy. Be a source of good in their chaotic days. 

2. Complete a Preference Assessment: Find out what the kids like. What is something that could be potentially motivating? Here's a list within a list: Star Wars, Pokemon, Paw Patrol, Minecraft, iPads, coloring books, painting, puzzles, fruit snacks, fruit loops, spin tops, light up toys, mardi gras beads, trampoline, swing, cars, princess crown, game with friend, and on and on and on.

3. You are in control. And no, not in the way most teachers think. You are in control of all the good things they have access to throughout the day. They only have access to those highly preferred reinforcers if you give them access. You give them access when they display appropriate behaviors. But in the end, you have good stuff and they do stuff to get the good stuff from you. Ergo you are the source of all good things.

4. You are now a reinforcer. You have paired yourself as the source of reinforcement for your kids. And your kids like you. Like I tell my staff "be a human". Let your kids see that you are a person. That you make mistakes. That you can laugh. That you like them. Build relationships. When they are sad, hug them. When they are happy, high five them. When they are excited, say "woohoo".  You get the point. Be a human and your kids will like you. And be their champion because they deserve it. Even the challenging ones.  All kids deserve it! And love all kids!

My challenge to you... How will you make tomorrow memorable for your kids? How will you make them smile? How will you make their day fun? How will you make their day?

~Kaylan~