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Relax, Rejuvenate, and Reflect

/ Ritamarie Hensley / Leave a comment
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The school year has ended and the summer has just gotten underway. Educators actually have some time to themselves before thinking about the start of the next school year. What will you do with the time?

It’s essential for educators to take a step back and embrace the summer break as a time to relax, rejuvenate, and reflect. Teaching is a demanding profession that requires immense dedication, energy, and emotional investment. The constant pursuit of excellence in the classroom and desire to meet the needs of students can often lead to burnout if educators do not take the necessary time to recharge. The summer break provides the perfect opportunity to pause, breathe, and restore the balance needed to approach the new school year with renewed enthusiasm and vigor. But let’s not think about the following school year just yet. 

Taking time to relax is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for maintaining overall well-being. When educators allow themselves to unwind and engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, they can reduce stress levels, improve mental health, and boost their overall happiness. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, traveling, pursuing hobbies, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, these moments of relaxation are crucial for recharging both body and mind. By prioritizing self-care during the summer, teachers can return to their classrooms feeling refreshed and ready to inspire their students with renewed energy and creativity.

The summer break offers a valuable opportunity for reflection as well. Reflecting on the past school year allows educators to celebrate their successes, acknowledge their challenges, and gain insights into their teaching practices. This period of introspection is essential for personal and professional growth. It provides a chance to identify areas for improvement and set meaningful goals for the upcoming school year. By taking the time to reflect, teachers can gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for development, which ultimately leads to more effective and impactful teaching.

In essence, the summer break is not just a time to escape from the demands of the classroom but a vital period for self-care and reflection. Educators who take the time to relax and rejuvenate are better equipped to face the challenges of the new school year with resilience and enthusiasm. So, as the summer unfolds, embrace this well-deserved break, indulge in activities that bring joy, and take the time to reflect on the past year. In doing so, you’ll be investing in your well-being and ensuring that you return to your students as the best version of yourself.

The Importance of Critical Thinking

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In a bustling classroom, Sarah, a high school student with a passion for science, found herself immersed in a challenging project. The task at hand wasn’t just about memorizing facts; it required her to dissect complex information, evaluate multiple perspectives, and craft a solution that went beyond the textbook. This scenario is not unique to Sarah; it reflects the essence of critical thinking – the ability to analyze, question assumptions, and make informed judgments. 

In the era of Artificial Intelligence disrupting educational landscapes, the fear lingers that students like Sarah might lose this invaluable skill. If students choose to take shortcuts by using AI to complete assignments rather than facing the challenges associated with projects, research papers, and presentations, critical thinking skills will not develop. 

The ability to critically think empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of life, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to personal and societal progress. In this two part blog, I explore the importance of critical thinking and how instructors can include it in their teaching. 

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Problem Solving 

We face problems each day. Some problems might be as small as deciding whether to spend or save the overtime money you received. Other problems require more thought and information such as, choosing a major, quitting a job, or buying a home.  To solve big or small problems requires critical thinking where you must analyze and evaluate information and then generate effective solutions. It empowers people to navigate complex situations and make informed decisions. 

Analytical Skills

Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze a problem by breaking it down into smaller parts, examine relationships between the parts, and understand the underlying structures. For example, if you are given a major project to complete for work or school, it is necessary to understand the steps that need to be taken in order to achieve a satisfactory (or exceptional) outcome. How do you break down the project into manageable steps? What must be done each day? Begin with the end in mind and then create the steps to take to achieve your goal. 

Effective Communication

People with strong analytical skills not only excel in problem-solving but also demonstrate a remarkable ability to communicate their ideas with precision and clarity. Beyond the realm of academia, these individuals navigate social and professional landscapes adeptly. They possess the skill to engage in constructive debates, weighing the merits of different perspectives before offering well-thought-out responses. Their communication style is characterized by the art of articulating thoughts with coherence and explaining opinions with a depth of understanding that goes beyond the surface. Importantly, they exhibit a genuine consideration for other viewpoints, fostering an environment of open dialogue and collaborative discourse. In essence, the marriage of analytical prowess and effective communication transforms these individuals into influential communicators who can convey complex ideas with impact and resonate with diverse audiences.

Academic Success

Students who develop critical thinking skills are better equipped for academic success. They can analyze and synthesize information, engage in meaningful discussions, and perform well on exams and assignments.  Students begin to  recognize and mitigate cognitive biases. This awareness helps with considering alternative perspectives and fostering objectivity leading to a more  comprehensive understanding of issues.

The goal of education is to develop these skills so that students become lifelong learners and lead successful lives both personally and professionally. 

Career Advancement

In the professional world, the currency of critical thinking is unparalleled. Organizations prize employees who possess the ability to think critically, recognizing them as invaluable assets. Beyond being adept problem solvers, individuals with strong critical thinking skills showcase a remarkable capacity for adaptability, seamlessly navigating through the winds of change that characterize modern workplaces. Moreover, these individuals emerge as natural leaders, capable of steering teams through complexities with insightful decision-making. As industries evolve, those armed with the analytical acumen of critical thinking find themselves not merely adapting to change but driving innovation and shaping the trajectory of their professional journeys.

Critical thinking is not just a skill; it’s the compass that guides us through the complexities of life. From problem-solving to effective communication, its impact reverberates in every aspect of our journey. As we navigate the importance of critical thinking, join me in the next blog, where we’ll explore practical ways instructors can integrate this invaluable skill into their teaching methods, paving the way for a future generation of adept critical thinkers.

Study Breaks, Rewards, and the Help of AI

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How to Schedule Breaks and Some Fun During Study Time

Everyone knows the importance of studying. Everyone also knows how hard it is to concentrate when you’re tired and feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Studying does not have to be stressful or tiring if you know how to include breaks and a little bit of fun. 

The best way to study is over several days. If you can organize your time so that you plan your study time way ahead of the test or exam, you can make studying last just twenty minutes each night. However, if you are a procrastinator or your teacher decided to give a test in just a few days, you will need to study in much longer chunks of time. So, how can you study for hours without losing your motivation and energy? 

The tips below will help get you through your next study session.

Get Outside

If you hit the books hard and get through the first several chapters of notes, don’t forget to give yourself some free-time. Every hour of studying should have a 10 to 15 minute break.

If you’ve been focused for the last 45 minutes, spend the next 15 minutes by stepping outside. The fresh air will give you renewed energy and your mind a break from staring at a book or notes. 

Move

You can also spend some time moving around. Most likely you’ve been sitting at your desk or kitchen table and studying, so when it is time for a break, get up and move. The movement will get your blood flowing which will help with your energy levels. You probably won’t feel like moving, but it is the best thing you can do before you hit the books again. Whether you take a walk around the house or just go to another room, don’t sit down, just keep moving.

Fuel

Hydrate with water and fuel your body with a healthy snack. Studying is not the time for sugary drinks or salty foods. Get up from your desk and grab some water, baby carrots, sliced apples, or a handful of almonds to fuel your body. The water and snack also help you maintain your energy. Again, leave your study environment for a change of scenery. Make this a true break to let your mind wander as you feed your body. 

Find Fun

Study Buddies

Studying does not have to be boring. To add some fun to your studying, join a study group. If you can find friends who have a similar work ethic as yours, you can form a study group and ask each other questions. Oftentimes, your friends will uncover information that you didn’t have in your notes. 

If you can’t find a study group, you can practice teaching the information to your younger siblings or stuffed animals. This strategy gives you the opportunity to view the information in a different way. Consider how you would explain your notes to someone else; it will force you to break it down into smaller chunks. You can even create visuals that will help you demonstrate your knowledge. 

Another study option is to ask ChatGPT or another artificial intelligence tool for help. You can ask ChatGPT to create questions in the form of a quiz or test to help you preview what the actual assessment might look like. This preparation can help you simulate an actual testing situation without the pressure of a final grade. You can also ask ChatGPT to breakdown concepts into simpler terms. For example, if you are studying the process of photosynthesis as a middle school student, you can ask the tool to explain the process to an elementary aged student. This breakdown will help you remember basic concepts from which to build.

Rewards

Sometimes the possibility of a reward will help get you through the toughest parts of studying. Rewards can be simple. You can allow yourself to watch your favorite television show if you study for an allotted amount of time on a given number of days. Or, you can allow yourself time on social media after your study session. The bigger rewards may come after you receive your high score on the test or exam. You can tell yourself that if you receive an A (or whatever grade you’re trying to get), you will treat yourself to a night out with friends. The rewards should be fun and motivating, but only you know what that might be.  

How to Finish the School Year Strong

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The weather is warmer, the days are longer, and the end of the school year is just around the

corner. Whether it is playing sports, working a job after school, or hanging out with friends, it seems

students are busier this time of year. Students can see the end of the school year as summer fever sets in, and it is

more difficult to remain focused on school responsibilities. How do students remain focused on

finishing the school year strong? Here are a few tips on how you can help your child get through the

rest of the school year without missing a step.

Revisit Goals

When your child returned to school after the winter break, you probably discussed goals for the

school year. Maybe your child wanted to get an A in science or improve by a letter grade in English

class. Whatever the goals were, now is the time to remind your child of them.

If you did not set goals, you still have time to have this conversation. Help your child set goals for the

remainder of the year. These goals should come from your child with your guidance. Your child must

have buy-in, so make sure she comes up with the goals. Once the goals are set, begin a plan on

how to reach each one.

Stay Organized

Since this time of year tends to disrupt your regular winter schedule, create a new routine that works

with all of the new springtime activities. Sit down with your child and her planner. Students who are

typically really good about writing down their assignments in their planner tend to stop keeping track

during this time of year. Help them discover their planner again so they can get themselves

organized. Set a time aside each evening to ask about the planner and then check-off all of the

completed tasks. Also, you may want to model this behavior by keeping a family calendar to stay on

top up of all the extra activities.

Get Motivated

Remind your children what they’ve worked for during the school year. Now is not the time to give up

as the end is approaching. Explain to them that this is the time when they must get motivated to

finish strong. You can help them set-up some type of rewards and incentives program. You know

your child and what helps them stay motivated, so assist them with achieving their goals through

incentives. Your children should want to finish strong, so the incentives/rewards should be small

such as serving their favorite dinner or allowing extra time on a video game.

Take Advantage of the Weather

The weather this time of year is beautiful, so encourage your children to go outside and get fresh air.

You can set-up a place for them to do homework outside or use the outdoors for study breaks. After

studying for an hour, there’s no need to stay cooped up. Take a walk. Enjoy the weather, which can

be refreshing and motivating.

Check Your Own Motivation

Your kids aren’t the only ones ready for a break from the hectic school schedule. Make sure you

show your own motivation at the end of the school year. Ask your children if they need help studying.

Show them that you are still interested in their success. You don’t want them to know how excited

you are for the end of the year, at least not yet anyway.

Don’t Over Schedule Activities

The warmer weather seems to encourage a busier schedule, so try to be acutely aware of how many

activities your kids are involved in. Kids don’t want to miss out on the fun, so they tend to say yes to

any offer. If you have a child who is on the soccer travel team, volunteers at church twice each

week, and babysits most weekends, you need to step in and help her set limits and priorities. Each

activity in this list is worthy, but having an over-scheduled child hampers the focus she needs with

ending the school year strong.

The Anxiety of Returning to School

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The Anxiety of Returning to School

Young people are experiencing anxiety and depression more than any other age group. Students experience stress and anxiety during a normal school year, so with the pandemic, monkey pox, inflation, and all of the uncertainty, it is important to pay attention and look for signs that your child is struggling.

For those returning to school in a few weeks, the anxiety and fear can be palpable. It is important to understand that anxiety is the most common emotional problem in children. Kids can develop crippling worries about many things, from germs to taking a test, to their parents dying. Some anxious kids are painfully shy and avoid things that other kids enjoy. Some have tantrums and meltdowns, and others develop elaborate rituals, like compulsive hand washing or scratching.

As a parent you may be experiencing anxiety in your own life as you struggle with the present economy. This anxiety may cause sleepless nights, headaches, and irritability. Your child sees what is happening to you and can sense your anxiety. It is important to talk to your child and let her know that everything will be okay. Most likely, your child may be worried about separating from you when she returns to school.

Similar to adults, children with anxiety may become irritable and angry. They also might have outbursts and have trouble sleeping. Their physical symptoms might include fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches. Some children keep their worries to themselves, so you may miss symptoms. Whether you notice symptoms or not, the suggestions below will help your child with reducing anxiety as she faces the many changes ahead.  

Validate Feelings

You must validate your child’s feelings while also reassuring her that everything will be okay. It is not the time to brush it off or dismiss feelings that may seem small to you. Allow your child to explain exactly what is causing the stress. Is she afraid of getting sick? Is she worried about being separated from you? Is she concerned that she won’t make friends? Whatever the fear, allow her to talk about it. You need to acknowledge it but also let her know that it is going to be okay. If she explains that she is going to miss you, then tell her that you’ll miss her too. Express your confidence that she can return to school and have a great experience. Also, explain that so many other children are also feeling the same way; she is not in this alone.

Set the Tone

You want to be positive with your child about returning to school. It is not the time to ask probing questions or show your own anxiety, but it is the time to discuss all of the fun it will be to see her friends and her teacher. You need to lead the charge and talk about the exciting things that will take place at school. You can also explain what you’ll be doing, so that she knows you also have things to do. If you are separating from a younger child, you may want to give her a little reminder from home. You could let her have a puzzle piece or a stone. It should be small but something that can remind her of home. Also, remind her that the school day is not that long and after learning so much and having fun, the day will pass by quickly and soon it will be time for dinner.

Create a Routine

Over the last several months, you’ve created a routine with your child. Now is the time to establish a new one. Routines help children feel safe and secure, so establish your new routine quickly. You want your child to know she can count on certain things to occur. After the school day, give her time for a snack and then let her get started on her homework. She can have time on the computer, outside, or watching a television show. Establish the routine that makes sense for your family; however, you must also be flexible. Schools may close again and return to remote at any time, so prepare your child for the possibility.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for anxiety. But, the general strategies above will help you and your child work through it no matter what the future holds.

For More Information: Signs of Anxiety in Young Kids