This is a time where empowering our children is especially important. Before we even talk to them, the children hear and feel the tensions and fears expressed by family and media. Even those who haven't heard at home hear in the presence of other children. We can't wrap them in cacoons to open when all threats are past, so we need to help them sort through the news and find what they can do to make a difference.
In the past week we have been learning what it is to be a hero. Through several of the stories in the Marvel Hero Project, we have watched kids make empowered through following passions and letting differences become bridges instead of barriers. We have used this image plus open discussion of the events and proactive practices that can effect the spread of this present virus. We have reframed social distancing as "finding new ways to stay in community." By proactively starting the steps before the media brought it so pointedly to Manitoba, the kids were able to feel prepared. Included in discussions, we talked about the math helping us understand what is happening. Following through with the preventative measures and encouraging each other to do the same became our super powers as health heroes. One girl stated, "I was really scared, but since we started talking about it in class, I am not so nervous."
In the next weeks, we will be exploring further ways to stay connected even while the physical distance gets greater. I will be taking my cue from the children we share in common. They are innovative and resilient. Some of the kids want a sidehug at the end of the day, but I had to tell them that I was choosing not to give a hug because I care about them. The kids stopped and expressed disappointment. All the sudden one of the girls stretched out her arms and said, "We can do virtual hugs!" All the children laughed and followed her example. I joined them, happy to be able to still connect in a way that is meaningful for them.
I am busy looking at sites and home learning opportunities that will help us stay in touch in the next while. I won't know what is to be sent out until I hear further from the division but will collect the sign-in data for the sites we are already connected to and prepare some games to support math practice while I wait for further guidance.
This blog page allows comments. I will have to approve comments so that we can keep this to our classroom and school alone. I will also send out other ways to connect more privately and focused on the work of and the connection with the children. Here is to virtually sharing more moments together.
Ms. Andie
Marvel Hero Project comics: https://www.marvelhq.com/marvel-s-hero-project
The shows are shown on Disney Plus.
In the past week we have been learning what it is to be a hero. Through several of the stories in the Marvel Hero Project, we have watched kids make empowered through following passions and letting differences become bridges instead of barriers. We have used this image plus open discussion of the events and proactive practices that can effect the spread of this present virus. We have reframed social distancing as "finding new ways to stay in community." By proactively starting the steps before the media brought it so pointedly to Manitoba, the kids were able to feel prepared. Included in discussions, we talked about the math helping us understand what is happening. Following through with the preventative measures and encouraging each other to do the same became our super powers as health heroes. One girl stated, "I was really scared, but since we started talking about it in class, I am not so nervous."
In the next weeks, we will be exploring further ways to stay connected even while the physical distance gets greater. I will be taking my cue from the children we share in common. They are innovative and resilient. Some of the kids want a sidehug at the end of the day, but I had to tell them that I was choosing not to give a hug because I care about them. The kids stopped and expressed disappointment. All the sudden one of the girls stretched out her arms and said, "We can do virtual hugs!" All the children laughed and followed her example. I joined them, happy to be able to still connect in a way that is meaningful for them.
I am busy looking at sites and home learning opportunities that will help us stay in touch in the next while. I won't know what is to be sent out until I hear further from the division but will collect the sign-in data for the sites we are already connected to and prepare some games to support math practice while I wait for further guidance.
This blog page allows comments. I will have to approve comments so that we can keep this to our classroom and school alone. I will also send out other ways to connect more privately and focused on the work of and the connection with the children. Here is to virtually sharing more moments together.
Ms. Andie
Marvel Hero Project comics: https://www.marvelhq.com/marvel-s-hero-project
The shows are shown on Disney Plus.