First Day Jitters

The first day back to school was long and tiring and so much fun. And it was only a half day! As the first graders staggered into the classroom this morning I could tell they had first day jitters. They weren't all alone though; I also had first day jitters!

For the first chunk of the morning, the students were given a bear color and cut out page which was then cut out and glued to make a sack puppet. This kept them busy and also gave them something manageable on their first day of first grade. The teacher then read First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg, a book to help ease any first day nerves. The students then went to the library where they met the librarian, learned the rules, and checked out books. After that, they went on a school tour. At the end of the morning the teacher lead a familiar group activity; Who Stole the Cookies from the Cookie Jar. One student had the cookie in his pocket while the students sang the song. This was a great way for students to learn their classmates names. And after completing all of that, it was surprisingly 11:40 and time to pack up for an 11:45 dismissal. WHOA, what a morning!

Today was an awesome day! I loved helping the students and learning along the way. There was one time during the hectic first day that I though, "whoa, this is too much for me!" But I was quickly reminded that it was the FIRST day; hectic is a little normal! However, many other times throughout the day I thought "I just might be able to do this 'school stuff' for a while." Which is a new (and reassuring) thought for me since I have never been 100% sure about teaching (I'm very indecisive).

I am so very excited for the semester. I know it will require A LOT of time, creativity, patience, and strategy, but I'm am completely ready for the challenge! This is my semester to ask questions, observe, take risks, and LEARN. Let the fun begin!

To close todays blog, here are a few things I have learned today:

• NEVER be afraid to come down on a kiddo (as long as it is appropriate). It is better to be firm with a kid from the beginning so they know the expectations rather than having them run over you. 
• Eat a bigger breakfast (I was starving at 9:00 am) 
• Bring/buy a soda (caffeine needed)
• Procrastination is something to stay away from, but if you just can't avoid it, everything will get done somehow. :)
• You can't plan too much because nothing ever goes how you think it will. Go with the flow and have fun!

Trust me, I learned way more than that today! 

Until next time, 

Miss Everhart :) 

(Say a prayer for me! It always helps!)