Teacher Aids and Tips 1

Those of you who were with us last year know that "Primed for Primary" is a e-newsletter I send out semi-regularly to all of our primary teachers.  I hope that we can use this as a forum to share ideas and challenges with each other.  Please share any particular challenges you might be having in your class, as well as things you have discovered that work well.  You can either e-mail me, or the entire group.

It seems like we barely get a chance to say hello to each during Primary before we shuffle off to our individual rooms with our classes in tow.  I hope this will give us a chance to feel more connected with each other.

Thank you all so much for your participation during the Teacher Orientation.   It seemed like I threw a lot of information at you.  Thank you again for your patience!

Our wonderful Stake Leaders passed on some really great information I didn't have time to go over during the orientation, so I thought I'd use the first couple of e-newsletter to share it with you.

Teacher Aids and Tips

1) New Online Training at http://www.lds.org/pa/display/0,17884,4647-1,00.html - This really does have a wealth of information, so please check it out if you get a chance.

2) Please prepare in advanced - Unlike an adults, who will quietly sit and just let their minds wander a little if there is a void in class, children will seize the opportunity and fill the void their own special brand of noise and distraction.  (Y'all know what I'm talking about.)  Once this happens it can be difficult to regain control.   Don't forget the power of prayer and spiritual guidance when preparing.  

3) Establish an Opening Routine in Primary classes - Children generally function best when they have a predictable routine.  Establish a routine that you go through at the beginning of class.  Put all the chairs in a circle, give everyone a chance to get water and use the restroom, or play a game that gives everyone 30 seconds to share how they are feeling with the class.  It doesn't really matter what as long as you are consistent.  Knowing what comes next will help the children to feel more secure, and hopefully, let them know when it is time to settle down and listen.  Does anyone have any good routine items they use with their class?

Thank you teachers for being part of Primary.  We are all so excited for this year.  And please remember that we are here for you!