#BFC530 Archive
The Breakfast Club – #BFC530 – is a 15 minute, 1 question Twitter chat every weekday. We chat in 4 timezones Mon-Fri – 5:30am Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific Times. The mission of BFC is to empower participants to make a difference in education by engaging in consistent reflective practice in a supportive community that inspires and challenges one another.
Monday February 22, 2016
Good morning ! Let's ROCK IT with our soft skills teaching discussion as we !
Well im trying to delegate some of my larger tasks.
Getting done has been problem for me for the past 20 years...Lol...Don't think that will ever change (maybe a good thing)
Good morning Lori joining in from OH
Good morning ! Can you help collect 100 tweets to celebrate their ?
Good morning friends. David, MS Principal from VA here for a rainy Monday.
Are there soft skills you overtly teach and why did you pick that soft skill? - https://t.co/afZkSm0qS3
So whats our topic this morning?
Greetings, all! Ben from North Carolina.
Can somebody define 'soft skill' for me?
Good morning after a week of sleep ins from Kathleen in western Mass
Soft skills like listening and empathy must explicitly be taught and literature can help teach them
Good to see you too! 1st time to Asia/India. Should be fun. Amazing school too.
Good morning ! Trying to get back into the swing of things after a busy vacation!
Saw your chat last night. Sorry I missed it. Glad I could read about it.
We had swimming sports today which is good as tomorrow threatens to be 39C (102F)
Good morning to my good vibe tribe!
me, too - it's a business term to me
Good morning! Was hoping to make it for coffee yesterday b the beautiful weather lured me out for a long run instead
Good morning everybody! Elisa, 5th grade teacher from Quito, Ecuador. Make every day count. Focus on the positive.
I try 2 have reflective conversations 2 help Ss & Ts come 2 their own understanding of decisions they make https://t.co/nGSoVY3iIz
great graphic even better message.
We teach problem solving - for real problems - like social issues on the playground, problems in lunchroom etc.
Good morning, . I'm Ku, Learning Coach, Argentina.
At my school we talk a lot about GRIT. I try to make that real by acknowledging struggle.
It was a fast & furious one last night! Lots of enthusiasm for YA literature.
Soft skills: collaboration/teamwork, essential for being able to look beyond 'me' and understand how experience successful learning.
As an admin I have the luxury of getting to meet one on one or in small groups. So listening is the skill I try to teach & model
THE GREG! Hello, my friend. Hope all is well in TN!
I overtly teach active listening, not sure it's really a soft skill because, like the red wheelbarrow, so much depends on it
We talk a lot about growth mindset and grit is that a soft skill
Agreed. Literature is so much about the endeavours of the human spirit.
Good morning ! Emily from MI ready to ! Love today's topic!
I think soft skills can be taught through the way you grade. Multiple chances and feedback teaches fortitude and patience.
We start with teaching our elementary students to acknowledge people when they walk into a room.
Thank you, Tiawana! Engaging, electric, empowering atmosphere all the way!
Indeed! Actually Wagner just added grit to the list I just posted as an 8th critical skill.
I'm thinking like people skills , emotional intelligence.
Soft skill I teach is that a grown up takes responsibility for their actions
“Skills, abilities, and traits that pertain to personality, attitude, and behavior rather than to formal or technical knowledge”
Things are fantastic thanks.
At my school solving interpersonal conflicts peacefully & with respect is a soft skill we focus on daily.
This definitely looks good! How does your school approach emphasizing it to students?
In class I push the idea of respect a lot. I do this b/c i teach through discussion often. I'm never sure how well it lands though.
Our district wide PBIS program supports and models Sift Skills.
Good morning Glenn from Michigan
Sounds rather silly but 1 of the things I focus on is being polite & using manners. Some of my HS age S's need help in this area!
Another is emotional awareness...so important!
This yr started w some team building w 9th gr bio. Helped assess soc dynamics, interest lvl, personality. https://t.co/ys4PyJU4Dy
I teach time management through student weekly reflections on their projects and by checking in with students
Good morning future educator here, looking to gain insight!
Manners because good manners go a long way!
yes conflict resolution and getting along with others as important as curriculum https://t.co/ahGXirBcpV
At my school solving interpersonal conflicts peacefully & with respect is a soft skill we focus on daily.
got so sucked into my book that I missed it, too
If you can get that idea across, the rest is easy. So important in so many ways.
Know thyself. How do you learn best? How do you communicate best? Teach at the beginning of the year
Good morning . Back to school today after Feb break.
Brian from Mass.
Morning meetings are great to help kids show understanding of others. Also conflict resolution and restorative Justice help.
Saying good morning when they walk in the door. This class is awesome at that
Those skills are intrinsic to all enduring understandings...Not a separate entity.
Similar to growth mindsets... I don't know, YET, I struggle with vs. I can't https://t.co/knL1djDRuo
At my school we talk a lot about GRIT. I try to make that real by acknowledging struggle.
Every project's rubric (we are full PBL) includes how these skills were used to meet the project's learning goals.
why is teaching at the beginning of the year more important?
In the MC, I focus on being brave, taking risks, and learning from mistakes.
Good Morning, ! Our soft skills are part of our PBIS program: SHINE- self-control, honesty, independence, nice and effort!
Thats the idea. Respect is easy at the beginning. by the end of a school year it a harder sell.
Yes! But the cupboard is bare, so I am starting the day with yogurt instead of coffee
Soft skill: Oral/written communication, essential for being a literate citizen and for self-expression.
(1/2) There are soft skills in elementary school? :P Everything seems to be MissionL:Critical when it trends.
Good morning #. Bruce from NJ. Here some Google Apps Tips to start your week https://t.co/J6Uk3h1QVx Have a great week
Also I always do mutual expectations in the beginning of the yr. We break down and agree on rules, sign https://t.co/4s9BTU1w39
We just did the cup challenge at a . Can you explain the activity with the cubes?
I may need some lessons https://t.co/bs6JmeZ4vw
I teach time management through student weekly reflections on their projects and by checking in with students
True. Ss need to understand their own feelings & emotions to get a good start.
I greet high school students off the bus each morning. Eye contact, smile, greetings are imp soft skills.
good morning; lang use is the class; face to face negotiation & communication is now a soft skill that has to be taught in digi age
Good morning, Carolyn! You are in a great place for insight and support. Glad you made it.
Curious, how many of you have character ed classes in your buildings? do they cover any of this?
I don't know if it's considered a soft skill, but being open and sharing of oneself. I share of myself https://t.co/yRCem8TucH
&I work with her all girls class on solving their own probs. "How R U going to solve it?"
I sought to improve my students' communication skills by 1st focusing on active listening. My Listening pg https://t.co/trnWaLJSUB
I would like to hack the morning meeting at the HS level! https://t.co/iiFn2U6WMN
Morning meetings are great to help kids show understanding of others. Also conflict resolution and restorative Justice help.
that is an excellent endeavor to teach and to live- an ever going exploration
To me soft skills are akin to character. I focus on many, but the most imp is empathy-it is the basis of compassion, ethics, justice
A lot of team building. Marshmallow challenges teaches them to work together.
Teamwork, curiosity, integrity are all important in our science classroom. We culture those skills on a daily basis (pun intended!)
Time management is a huge challenge for middle school students (and the rest of the world)
Saying hello to all by name, especially to the quiet Ss
educators must model soft skills daily. Calling students by name, acknowledging them in the halls,cafeteria, & bus loop
Hey everyone! Josh from PA. Getting ready for some and thought I'd jump in for some liking the topic!
Tech is considered soft skill at my school--but my aim is for Ss to use tech to create not only consume. Assignments force creative
In class I emphasize respect and responsibility through discussion, books we read and when we connect w others outside our 4 walls.
I start the year with 7 habits and have Ss write personal mission statements. Mostly all about soft skills!
We teach curriculum & foundational literacies through the daily emphasis of these skills vs the other way around.
(2/2) That said, I try to teach 'perspective' ~ seeing the world from an alt POV. Lots of thought-provoking vids out there.
love the personal touch of greeting them each at the very beginning of the day
Good to see you at this weekend.
We used to at my former school. The SRO & I are working on bringing them back at current school.
Sounds awesome! How would these skills be explained to a new T or S coming into the school?
Soft skills: respectful, kind, caring, trustworthy, ready to learn along w/ digital citizenship are embed into our PBIS program.
It's a little like and her thoughts on vulberability. If we teach students the power of vuln
I agree! Can you explain a little more detail about 20% Tuesday?
Yes. Wolf vs. Giraffe language NVC (Rosenberg) is helpful
If you want to teach these skills and don't know how find the Coordinator in your building.
Agree. The quiet ones usually watch and listen the most intently. https://t.co/vzcHRqOaIx
Saying hello to all by name, especially to the quiet Ss
I teach 6th grade social studies ... it seems every class is a character ed class ...
These are 2 great ones Beverly! I'm huge on respect in particular. https://t.co/T1W2Z5sIeq
In class I emphasize respect and responsibility through discussion, books we read and when we connect w others outside our 4 walls.
Read Aloud so important and Out of my mind Lots of discussions
Whenever Ss send me an e-mail, my first line in response is, "Thank you for your e-mail." Even if what they send is abrupt.
Collaboration is another soft skill that requires a lot of guidance / instruction - encouraging design teams supports process
Soft skills: Creativity and innovation...the 'cream of the crop' today, adding to and building our future...full of possibilities.
maybe under a different name. May even look different. Bucket fillers. Etc.
so true. If we aren't excited learners, then how can we expect our students to be?!
love this idea https://t.co/FOdTM0Wlm0
I start the year with 7 habits and have Ss write personal mission statements. Mostly all about soft skills!
at the ES level, yes - a different theme every month. As Ss get older, it seems to fall by the wayside
20%Time provides students with opportunity to work on passion / self driven/directed project
Content is not as important. Cool.
True. Show them you have a heart from the beginning.
truly sets each individual on the right path and announces to the world that they are important!
I require Ss to explain why they are using computers in Media Ctr. Harder than it sounds to articulate for MS Ss.
And also and . Love you Brene!
Manners! I'm all about teaching politeness and manners. :-)
teaching collaboration skills, problem solving is essential for a class that hinges on so many group projects/activities
We cant just model good educational practice. We need to model enjoyment of being educated.
it works on the high school level. We use it as adults to open our PD meetings.
Not the same that's like starting a car using water instead of gas
Ironically, I am pretty harsh about having the soft skills!
Good morning! Phil from NC jumping in on the chat before it's too late :)
Someone mentioned a book on listening/communicating wks ago. Said they were doing it as a book study...anyone remember the title?
Can someone please define grit? And, how is it different from perseverance?
That is awesome! I bet someone can feel it the moment they walk in your room. https://t.co/atpEhaM5sN
love this idea https://t.co/FOdTM0Wlm0
I start the year with 7 habits and have Ss write personal mission statements. Mostly all about soft skills!
Truly! Something I need to constantly remind myself to practice
its not really. Grit is just the buzzword.
. I do the same with parents. Communication is key, no matter the message.
I use it the same. Ss love the word grit though.
Keeping it simple but powerful, meaningful for your kids! Yes!
Good morning all. Joel from TN.
and so many novels do a great job of forcing us to consider our own answers to these big questions https://t.co/40mQGAMIGp
Agreed. Literature is so much about the endeavours of the human spirit.
Many great picture books at the primary level, to integrate soft skills throughout curriculum.
Love to model 'please, thank you, I appreciate it' every day in cafe during lunch
Yes you can always learn "facts" but how to get along with others so important being a good citizen https://t.co/zksJaKrAIt
Ironically, I am pretty harsh about having the soft skills!
I overtly teach socialization via board gaming. Collab is of the utmost importance in science & most kids are too buried in phones.
Sounds great! I'd love to see what that look like. Do they find it challenging?
Exactly! Begin the day's journey with a reminder that they indeed matter. Good morning is a small price.
https://t.co/6VaA4khKYS
truly sets each individual on the right path and announces to the world that they are important!
Thanks Ellen! Will you be at this summer?
I think you should do a PD day on that
So many don't. This year they all do and I love it. Starts the day off perfect.
love the idea of reaching out to parents in the same way!
Agreed, otherwise we can't do a lot with curriculum!
Reminds me of my cooperating teacher giving me the old "no smiles until T-giving" line! What a waste!
Good morning, Miriam vocal music from DC/VA a little late ;) ☕️
I was thinking about that the other day. What Crap!!!
Perfect! Thanks for sharing. I will put it in the queue of must read books!
working on conflict resolution is a big for us ... thinking things through and when to bring in an adult.
when Ss share positives on with each other. You much google this lots of literature out on this. DM me
Look up the anatomy of trust if you haven't. Not a TED but awesome
the teachers have expanded time on Fridays this semester and a couple are trying 2 use 20%
I start each week w Teamwork Time 1st thing Monday morning. Use various resources for team building and character ed lessons.
Please teach me! I need that kind of help! 😄😄😄
. Time out! Please tweet your blog address to . Trying to capture all in one spot for easy resource. Resume play!
Highly recommend by for personalized PD. It's our behavior that Ss w/ ALWAYS remember
Self-awareness and self-management are key. Knowing yourself and your triggers (in certain situations) helps prevent discord.
knowing and stating names shows you care. This small act leads to great awards
Kids play board games during lunches & study halls. Also teaches them decision making & problem solving skills, also big in science.
I've found some classes are better on collaboration than others.Maturity may play a part in this. But still work on it.
Ss need to advocate for themselves. The most fundamental part of communication.
exactly if you can't get along with peers you may not even stay in the classroom, then you def. can't learn https://t.co/bufpwSWvfM
Agreed, otherwise we can't do a lot with curriculum!
Absolutely. Hard to control their own behavior if they don't understand the emotions behind their actions https://t.co/QMBJ43FpU3
Another is emotional awareness...so important!
Have a great day all. Time to get ready!
One of the best things I do. Ss love it (grade 3)
I should have autoset the machine. Moving too slowly w/out coffee for today.
important soft skills to teach https://t.co/P2Jusav9ZK
Self-awareness and self-management are key. Knowing yourself and your triggers (in certain situations) helps prevent discord.
Agree !! https://t.co/O3sOFQGNKt
working on conflict resolution is a big for us ... thinking things through and when to bring in an adult.
Embrace Monday for its possibilities and challenges! Thanks for starting my day off on a positive note via .
I make up for that lost smiling time every day! Sure you've more than compensated now :-)
Between you and I, I need a lot of help too!!!
Morning Mike from North Carolina.
Guess how I got the idea? My home district principal and Ts! :-)
eye contact on the speaker. Tracking other speakers.
it's always been a nightmare for me so I think I avoid having my Ss deal with it - lost opportunity!
Love how effective resorative justice is in changing neg behavior!
I also teach to take responsibility. No excuses. You didn't do your hw, okay but there are no excuses (Hw is 30 min)
My first 3-4 day of the school yr is team building, routine-setting, & informally assessing soft skills. https://t.co/kRHpP2UA5j
I start each week w Teamwork Time 1st thing Monday morning. Use various resources for team building and character ed lessons.
... even pronouncing them correctly ... especially on the 1st attempt ... goes a long way.
Sooooo important to model every day, all things! https://t.co/r2KFteCNUa
Love to model 'please, thank you, I appreciate it' every day in cafe during lunch
Yes! Always a big one. Especially when everyone gets spring fever. https://t.co/7uYplOXrjh
working on conflict resolution is a big for us ... thinking things through and when to bring in an adult.
How about the 'soft skills' of love, compassion and respect?
follow up question when someone asks how your day is. Show them you care about there day as well!
Have a great day nice to be here again today!
Ok . Gotta run. Goal for the week: Reprioritize.
So true! If you are not modeling the joy & wonder of learning each day, you might just be in the wrong profession.
yes, it has a lot to do with the make up of the room
Working on Ss taking a deep belly breath as a group before a song. Tough, but amazing what else happens after they really get it
Great starting my day with . Hope everyone have an amazing day. Tweet out on follow your new friends
and I are in the same school district, so is our district hashtag :-)
Love it! Making those skills meaningful and more authentic!
every morning all kids have to shake my hand b4 entering the room. Firm shake, eye contact, and follow-up question.
Reflection must be taught too. We assume that all kids know how to consider themselves, but they don't
thank you for all the helpful advice and info learned here at !
Ss need to realize that those three begin with self before they can show them to others.
and we have to model this for students.
what a great way to embrace this day! Full of positive energy due to your reflection & insight!
I try to teach respect of others. Sometimes overtly as needed.
Soft skills = key competencies in NZ. Goal setting is reflective & draws out strengths. Accountability for deadlines & vocab choices
True. Its one thing to have a bad day but people should be excited about what they do.
I try to bring in compassion and world view to help Ss see the BIG picture.
taking responsibility is essential to understand others
Feeling like we all just modeled soft skills of preparedness, engagement, and connection together. Thank you , I truly needed that!
When my Ss wrote their mission statements based on 7 habits, I also shared mine. Here it is: https://t.co/7RlMreocZD
ask students to help if this is your first interaction with the Student
make kids practice with their peers. They need 2start find ways to set them self apart. I teach 4th grade. Never 2 early.
Great chat Teaching soft skills is as important as teaching content, If we want our S's 2 succeed they need both!
Have a great day all and and if you have more to say come on over to the Spark Chat group
Thanks for a great chat! Glad to be back
Yes! Def needed to start year on the right foot! I find keeping the routine throughout the year makes a huge diff though
So important https://t.co/eteKQLkc3y
educators must model soft skills daily. Calling students by name, acknowledging them in the halls,cafeteria, & bus loop
Have a great day, Friends.
This one looks interesting - thanks for the suggestion
We model our role models, Students model us. Always be on cue! https://t.co/3Ou4ZdOH23
Guess how I got the idea? My home district principal and Ts! :-)
It's been too long since my last Thanks so much for the dose of inspiration. Have a gr8 Monday. Hasta luego
It's been too long since my last Thanks so much for the dose of inspiration. Have a gr8 Monday. Hasta luego
Hey friends! I celebrate you! Have an awesome day!
Have a great day my buddies! Off to with my family.
Essentially the why behind me leaving my previous career to teach. Must read for all Ts, IMO.
Best wishes for a great day full of realizing/experiencing soft skills! Peace, my friends!
And in The Startup of You, says it's WHO you work with that w/ determine where your might next work!
Wonderful! Yes, I will be there as well. Wouldn't miss it on home turf.
So important! Maybe can't teach it but CAN teach the expectation that Ss show them every day-Model & keep in the convo
Respect (for others & yourself) and kindness are the soft skills I try to teach.
Love the way opens ELA dept meetings. "What are you reading & loving?" & "What are Ss reading & loving?"
everybody! Have a wonderful start to the week. See y'all tomorrow.
Thanks! It also gives us a clear and common vocabulary to use. And use it to eval characters!
OK, I'm closing the computer or else I will fall down this rabbit hole all day long! :-)
Early childhood is a good balance of soft and academic skills - if done right!
In the midst of learning - communication skills, groups, fun, ethics, character, compassion
Everyday I teach my Ss to walk into class and say good morning, even if they are late. Being greeted & welcomed is important.
What we model, we teach. 😊
Yes! Love videos for class- this is a great one!
#1695 Bad news travels at the speed of light; good news travels like molasses. — Tracy Morgan
https://t.co/4ilV2J4Zm8
Wishing you a day of joyful surprises. https://t.co/1fSPdMCsg8
there is nothing better than true peace. What a wonderful wishing to have for others
is FB shit! Twitter is about blood and sand.
I agree Emily. Empathy is the building block. https://t.co/iZgDUDJGgj
To me soft skills are akin to character. I focus on many, but the most imp is empathy-it is the basis of compassion, ethics, justice
Meanwhile I am tweeting in the dark from under the covers! Can't imagine being ready to go this early! 😜😴
Happy Monday ... Let's Rock this day out!
thx! I learned this idea frm 's Steve Olsen. Makes the yr go by so much more smoothly. Makes Ss accountable
Have a great week, everyone! See you tomorrow!
