Summer is coming! Really, it is! Many teachers work in programs which close for the summer months. Many of you work in a center that runs year long. Regardless of the program, summer is the time for you to unplug and recharge, both in your classroom (if you teach during the summer) and, especially, at home.
The school year can be pretty intense with all the programs for family days, Christmas programming, Art Shows, Open Houses, Field Trips, etc.
If you teach during the summer, you will still need to write curriculum and plans but, for most, this is a time to investigate and explore those themes and activities that can only happen in the summer! You will still need to have a consistent schedule for your preschoolers but, for the most part, your room will have a more laid back, camp type feel.
What about at home---for YOU? As one who cares for children with passion and concern, you most likely forget to care for yourself! This can be the main reason many early childhood professionals burn out. Don't let that happen to you!
This summer, commit to planning some events that are just for you! Are there hobbies or activities that you enjoy but put aside during the school year? Make it a point to focus on one or several of them! For example, when is the last time you read a book or magazine that was not focused on children, early childhood or curriculum planning?
Perhaps you enjoy crocheting, knitting, jewelry making, bowling, gardening, just hanging out with friends and family, etc. For me, I love walking and especially taking my dog for walks. However, I get so caught up in the administrative piece of the preschool when I get home that I'm still on preschool mode and my dog's walk with me happens after dinner rather than late afternoon.
I now use that walk as a way to leave preschool mode! And Cammy, our adorable Corgi, KNOWS that it is walk time. He's waiting at the door when I get home, very excited to go on his daily jaunt! It is a great way for me to leave that "preschool mode" and be Cheryl again instead of Miss Cheryl!
So, what's your thing? You decide what it is that you have not done enough of that you enjoy this past school year. The motto of Preschool Plan-It's website can be your steps to personal planning as well. Search it, Find it, Plan it! Here's how:
1. Search it!
Choose the hobby or activity you want to do more of.
2. Find it!
Find out when that event or activity can happen. For example, is there a book club that meets on specific days or evenings? A summer bowling league that is just forming? A How-To class starting on something you want to learn how to do?
3. Plan it!
Make the phone call and plan it! Sign up for that class or book club! Book a weekly night with friends or bi-monthly cookout.
Follow through is key. Do not let "writing those lesson plans" become the reason you do not do something for yourself. You need to find a balance!
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