Crafting the comfy classroom

In an effort to carve an environment that fosters creativity and learning, I have taken great care to ensure our classroom is safe, orderly and caters to all of my learners needs.  If you come in to our classroom, you will hear quiet, calming music playing.  I strive to use body language as a means to get attention.  I will teach the children basic signals as prescribed by national consultant and author, Vicki Gibson, Ph.D.

Handout from http://www.gha-pd.com

My goal is to be consistent in applying rewards and consequences in following our class expectations:

Gorgeous graphics from Mrs. Nichols at http://www.thekinderpolkadotpatch.com/

 

A whole brain method to reinforce these expectation is through smilies and frownies.

I am able to reward and reinforce positive behavior as the children get better at following classroom procedures.

There maybe times when a child may be stressed and react badly.  Our library also serves as our relaxation station.  Here the child can sit in the comfy chair and reconsider their choices.  In our class I teach the children the difference between small problems they can solve on their own, and big problems that require assistance from an adult.  Utilizing Kelso's Choices, students have the opportunity to choose how they handle small situations on their own.

My hope is that in teaching the children the life-long skill of conflict resolution in our classroom, it will not only support a more calm and peaceful classroom, but produce world class citizens who are mindful, problem solvers.

Get a visitors pass and stop on by!

Warmly,
Mrs. Caronna