I was introduced to Affirmation Friday in October in the classroom which I work in daily. Each Friday, the first few minutes of the hour students write names on the board and then write each other. They affirm the positives that they see in their peers or the qualities they respect or like in educators.
Friday morning, I had a shoulder to shoulder talk with one of my students explaining that I believed in the student and that I believed that student could do anything when applying themselves. This student shrugged it off, but it is my hope that even when they don't seem to hear, that they are listening.
This student has never before this day participated in Affirmation Friday. Today was different, he wrote me and it was the affirmation, that makes all days good and bad worth it.
He wrote: Mrs. Waldmann, Thank you for incuring(encouraging) me to always do my work when I am in here.
These cards from various students will be a treasure on those days when I feel like I am not making a difference. In turn, I write every student in my class. I hope it is just what they need to hear, when they get one. I also believe that they will remember words like -
Dear student - When you connected what we were learning to this real life issue, it made my day. I know that this event was sad, but you can see how and why you learn. I can see that you did learn when you make connections like this one.
Dear student - I can see that you are trying really hard. Keep up the good work!
Dear student - I believe in you! Your test scores are showing great improvement.
Dear student - Thank you for caring for others, I see this when you help your classmates. You are a good friend.
Those are just a handful for affirmations that I have written.
If relationship is key, these affirming words will serve to bolster that relationship.
It is also good to note that I don't affirm negative, I don't lie and say I see things I don't. Students are smart. I study my students and look for any and all positives to share with them. Sometimes, we all need someone to see the good. As a teacher, we have a front row seat to each student in our classroom. When we "catch" them doing good - celebrate it! When they "get it" - make them aware.
Capturing Kids’ Hearts
“If you have a child’s heart, you have his head.”™ - Flip Flippen
I loved reading about your affirmations with kids. Student relationships are the key! They are also what make this work so delightful! Do you remember when writing these types of notes was called "warm fuzzies?" :)
ReplyDeleteI believe that student relationships are key!
DeleteI also agree that they make this job fun.
Hope all is well in your world. I hear from Rene you have a job for next year? Congratulations! We are all so excited and proud of you! Miss hearing from you. I know you are busy.
ReplyDeleteI have two post as "Drafts" I miss writing here. I have had so much happen in the last 10 weeks.
DeleteI do have a job, as long as I pass my MEGA test and the board approves. I am putting that in God's hands. (too much pressure for me to carry)
I almost wrote you two days ago.
I am excited and nervous.
I am so thankful out paths crossed!
I passed my unit last semester - she said I used all best practices. I appreciate your encouragement and feedback!
Thank you is not adequate enough to express my heartfelt thanks for all you do to encourage future educators.