In a message dated 01/27/2004 9:23:32 PM Eastern Standard Time,
mwhiteaz@cybertrails.com writes:
Am I expecting too much? I pick up pencils from the floor after each
class, and know they must lose them in their other classes as well. The
teacher of a long-ago EEI class told us, "Just give them a pencil and
get on with your class!"
Hi, Maggie!
For me, the pencil issue is not a priority. For you it might be more
important. However, my philosophy, in both my teaching and mothering, is to pick
your battles. IMO, if every little thing becomes an issue, then the really
important issues get lost. I suggest figuring out what issues are worth investing
time and getting control. Showing the kids that you are in control is
important, so tell the kids that YOU have decided that if they forget a pencil, they
may quietly go to the "pencil box" (a community container where you put the
pencils you have found after they have left class- maybe add some cheap golf
pencils). Then follow it up with something important that you do expect from
them, such as their complete attention and silence when you are speaking. Maggie,
what do you think?
Susan on Long Island
