The Puzzle: Blog

It’s beginning to look (and feel) a lot like the start of school. Back-to-school sales are happening, summer camps are winding down, the days are starting to seem shorter…and you’re probably also starting to feel slightly anxious and are asking yourself, “Where did the summer go?”

You’re not alone! Back-to-school anticipation is in full swing at this time of year. Everyone wants to start the school year off on a good foot, and now is the time to start planning. For most teachers, you have the preparation process down pat. You’re known for your outstanding organizational skills and at times, for even over planning at times.

But for those teachers who might be starting their first year in their own classroom– and even for those who are teaching veterans– here are some tips to help you get in the back-to-school mindset and plan for the big first day back.

1. Make a back-to-school checklist.
Tasks are much less daunting, and you’re less likely to forget something crucial, if you take the time to make a list of all the tasks you need to get accomplished before summer is over. As you think of new items, add to the list. Assigning them each a number according to their priority is a great way to help manage your list, and you’ll be able to gauge what you can actually get done. Another benefit of making a list? You’ll feel awesome each time you get to cross of one of your to-do items!

2. Think positively.
Rather than thinking about all the things you should have done this summer, think about the endless possibilities of what you can accomplish this year. Was there a new experiment you wanted to try last year but didn’t have the chance? Make it a priority this year. Are there professional development opportunities you’ve been meaning to take advantage of? Sign up for them. Think about the lives you’re going to be shaping, and enter this new school year with the mindset you’re going to make it the best one yet.

3. Go shopping.
Go shopping, not for school supplies and classroom materials, but for ideas. Set aside 20-30 minutes each day to browse the internet for articles on teaching methods, lessons, group projects, trends in education, or anything that you find inspiring. Store those in a place where you can easily come back to them when you’re looking for something to fill a rainy recess period or augment a lesson. Hint: Pinterest is a great place to do this, and there are hundreds of thousands of pins that already exist for you to browse!

4. Ok, now go shopping.
Be sure you have all the supplies you will need on your first day. You can always go shopping again as the year progresses, but starting the year with a fully-stocked classroom always helps the transition from summer to school. Splurge and get yourself one or two extra items (maybe a new set of whiteboard markers or a new water bottle) that will get you excited about being back in the classroom.

5. Create your classroom policies.
Every teacher wants a well-managed classroom. By setting classroom policies and expectations, your students know what to expect from you and have a clear sense of what you expect from them. A shared understanding of this is key. Let your students have a hand in deciding your classroom rules. Chances are they’ll be more willing to follow them if they are a part of the process.

Do you have any other tips for getting ready to head back to school? Share them in the comments below!

Image credit: abc13.com, boardofchildcare.org

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