What New Teachers REALLY Need for Back to School
Hey y'all! I know you've heard you need everything to set up a successful classroom. If you're online or on any social media at all, you've seen all kinds of cute things for back to school. And of course these things are great…but what do you really need?
I'm not talking centers and mini erasers. These things are great, but I'm talking things to keep you sane and uplifted, even on your toughest days. What are these things? Keep reading to find out.
Why? Because this person will celebrate your successes with you and help you through the worst days. Your significant other may be helpful also, but no one understands like another teacher. Not every teacher BFF has to be at your school either. Social media has opened up a world of networking opportunities. Some of my BTFs (Best Teacher Friends) are several states away. Why? Because they get it, and now days, distance means nothing. We're only a text message away. :)
2. You need a mentor teacher.
This person may or may not be your BTF, but this person WILL be there to answer questions and help you when you really need it. DO NOT be afraid to ask for help! None of us know everything and you can learn so much from watching others. ASK! OBSERVE! SHARE! And learn from others. You and your students will gain immensely from it.
3. You need comfy shoes.
When your feet hurt, your attitude suffers and you can't be your best. If there was ever a time to embrace orthopedics, now's the time! Just kidding. Sort of. But seriously, spend the money on shoes your feet love, your body will thank you for it.
Preferably something super comfortable. Your body is your temple--dress it like you mean it. My current favorites are teacher tees and comfy colorful jeans or pants. When you're comfortable, your mood improves and so does your teaching. No stuffy clothes when you're in the trenches of teaching!
5. You need something that brings you joy.
Some days are going to be more taxing than others. This is just a reality. Some days, you will just want to sit in your classroom in the quiet while your class is at specials, and you will need something to bring you joy. Yes, your BTF and your mentor will be amazingly helpful, but you may just need something simple to uplift you. It may be flair pens. It may be an inspirational poster. It may be that pretty binder with the cover you so carefully made and printed off and slid into the cover. Whatever it is, make it yours.
Coffee, tea, chocolate, soda (maybe not too much soda). Pick you passion. Don't want to drink your caffeine or load up sugar? Apples have a significant amount of energy boosting good stuff. Why do you think they say, "an apple for the teacher?" It's because we're TIRED, and apples give you energy. (And fiber, just FYI.) Get a Keurig, a Starbucks, or a basket of fruit, whatever you need to keep yourself going!
7. You will need an account with Scholastic Book Clubs.
Because you teach and you'll need books. This is by far the best way I've found to get new, inexpensive books. You just can't beat their dollar deals, and they seriously have everything! If you're not familiar with Scholastic Book Clubs, you need to check into this. The bonus points you earn from student orders and your own is incredible. I get TONS of free books each year because of it.
This is really the basics to keep you happy and taken care of during the school day. There are so many things that go into making a classroom a home, but taking care of you is the first step. It's not being selfish to put yourself first, it's being proactive. You can't pour from an empty cup. I'm sure you've heard the saying, "If momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!" Well the same goes for teachers. If you're not happy and taken care of, you can't be the light and the hope for your students.
YOU HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF YOU!
Treat yourself right so you can do the same for your littles. You will all enjoy your time together more. I promise! Have a great week and I'll talk to you soon.
Stay cozy,
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