I loved the book we read. Did you notice how I was practicing some of the things mentioned in the book the last few days? I gave myself space, listened intently and observed what was going on as close as possible. It’s really hard to pay attention sometimes when you feel like talking. It is more difficult to communicate if you have to yell across the table. Sometimes what we really need is a good time out.
Time outs for teachers is not a bad thing. A time out gives us the time and space to contemplate things that are bothering us, gives us the time to organize our thoughts or just relax. I have been so relaxed in class the past few days. I tried to say as little as possible…It was time for someone else to have the floor. Sometimes we need to pull back and allow others the time and space to have their turn. I usually try to use a little self talk and tell myself to shut up. Alas, sometimes this works and sometimes I just ignore it.
Teachers need time out from talking. Do you ever get tired of talking? Do we feel that we or the students need to fill the air with words all the time? I don’t think so. Every once in a while I’ll tell my students “Silence is golden.” It’s a rare moment in a classroom when you truly hear silence. Some don’t know how to appreciate this rare commodity: I do. My students don’t recognize silence. They feel uncomfortable with it, as if it is a stranger.
As we teachers take time out from talking it allows the space for our students to have the opportunity to fill it with important conversation. It allows us the space to listen. As we listen to these children talk about all kinds of things, we are encouraging them to work on their communication skills. It is a win, win situation for both of us.
My advice is simple. Do yourself a favor and take a time out. I will continue to do the same in the future.
What a great way to apply what you read in the book, Mary! I like to sit back and listen, too. Like it was said in the book, more can be gained from a conversation by just listening without an agenda for needing to give an opinion. I am glad you have had a good experience listening.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas,
ReplyDeleteI too like to sit back and observe and listen. I talk so much at school and have so much mental stimulation in first grade that I come home and need some time of peace. Unfortunately my 3 boys disagree with my decision for quite, but I do what I can. Being in a mindset of peacefulness is so important to our inner selves. I think I’m a better person, mom and teacher when I take time out for myself and get some quiet time.