#2PencilChat Archive
The #2PencilChat is a weekly conversation about educational technology. As we enter a more student-centered age, let's talk about using all the tools in our toolboxes to be innovative and dynamic teachers.
Tuesday June 14, 2016
Hey everyone, I'm Sean in St. Augustine, FL. I teach 3rd grade, and I feel the need to fill the air with Love.
Katie from So Indiana and I love carbs!
Teresa, MS Literacy teacher, NY.
I really want to do tonight's chat! My class at the Y starts in 10 though!
Kim! I'll be there tomorrow morning!
A1 I tell my 3rd graders I love 'em, but I always clarify that it's not the kissy, squishy kind of love.
Hello Marissa, 5th grade teacher, on my way back to my home state of Michigan!
Hi all - Marifran, HS librarian popping in & out while I'm the study partner for my Regents-taker
A1. Always let my kids (all 750 of them) know that I love them. Tell them all the time!
Howdy Marissa! That's where I spent the first 2/3 of my life!
A1: I love my students and I tell them. Although it's less awkward to tell elementary Ss "I love you"
Hey Marifran! Good to see ya!
Robert from Los Angeles here. middle school English.
Hello :) Cathy, edtech specialist in NYC, from NJ joining you from for a change.
I always tell my students I love them. We work hard at being kind and using kind words in the classroom.
please tag me in the storify!
A1: dropped many anchors of appreciation this year (TY )
A1 When my Ss hug me and say I love you, I say it back. They are my kids.
That's so true! Even 5th graders like to hear it!
Hi ! CA middle school mod/severe speech/language pathologist
I should also add that I'm chatting from a . Getting used to the keyboard feel
A1 I tell my kids individually and as awhile class that I love them. I say it often-verbally and in written word
A1 love = passion. Do what you love, love what you do.
Weird that it was already a week ago that was in the ?
Will do - I've been using 's Transcript tool. I'll make sure to link you.
When I talk bout my kids to ppl who don't know what I do, they be like how many kids you have? My students are my kids. So 100s
Hi Cathy, it doesn't seem like a week since I saw you.
A1 I convey love thru relationship: I am truly on your side. I'll listen to, acknowledge, support, & praise each of you.
these Regents, they've changed a bit in the last *cough cough* yrs - dont kno if Im helping
And it's going to be tomorrow!
we practice being kinder than necessary. But I think me telling my kids "I love you" is practice being honest
A1: MS level you show it through actions, words, respect for them (diff than elementary)
Right? It seems like it was yesterday...
Well said! https://t.co/1CIFL53EYA
A1 I convey love thru relationship: I am truly on your side. I'll listen to, acknowledge, support, & praise each of you.
A1 love is like buying a new pair of splattered jams man
We read, Wonder. It was the perfect fit to our kindness theme! Loved reading it!
A2 Listen, listen, listen.
A2: listen, check-in, listen, listen, listen......
A1: Most of them (is that bad?) most of the time. I tell them they're awesome and great and big thinkers and creative...
Heyyyy you took my answer! Cool!
A2. I simply listen to them. Sometimes that's all they really want.
A2 My partner & I have lunch with our Ss in our room. One S had her dad go to prison. Heartbreaking.
A2: sometimes rec books w/ relate-able characters for them, share my stories if appropriate
A2 I don't preach & I don't pry. I'm open & available, but I let the characters in the great novels we read teach coping skills
A1: Hugging was dissuaded at my former district. Kids at my current school are huge huggers
don't worry I will visit you next week
A2: wait for them to talk, let them cry it out
A2: with the bigguns, I let them know directly: I'm hear to listen, no judgments, advice only if you want it.
A2: I always offer a listening ear, a piece of advice, or a question of what they need. I tell them I am always there for them.
A2 I tell them that even if I don't have the answers, I'm there to listen, and to be a sounding board for ideas.
A2 candy and the hope for break dancing to come back in style
Almost exactly what I said! Great minds....
Hey, you stole my answer! Great minds...
A2 positive responses and ask question in the form " have you tried this"
A2. Also letting them express themselves creatively is a great way to show you care about them.
This is uncanny! A double convergence of insight! GreatER minds... https://t.co/25Z1QhEXwm
Almost exactly what I said! Great minds....
It's sad we can't hug b/c of a few sickos out there. Some kids don't get hugs at home. You know who https://t.co/WavZutFpXI
A1: Hugging was dissuaded at my former district. Kids at my current school are huge huggers
Painting, coloring, Play-Doh, puzzles......all stress relievers!
I'm a hugger, but I try to read the kid to determine if it's ok. Not all my kids like to be touched.
I feel bad for Ts and Ss who are stuck in no-hug schools. Kids choose a hug or a handshake at the end of each day.
Sean is this you? These are some really witty answers
There's a blast from the past.
A2: every day, every min is a fresh start. Saying you deserve to be forgiven w/o stipulations is saying I love you
I am not a huge hugger so I definitely am respectful of personal space. I will ask first.
is now trending in USA, ranking 41
, goodness I'm so late A2: Listen, give hugs
just trying to live the dream
I think this is where Capturing Kids' Hearts comes in! I love this program. :D
A2 at middle school, we do side hugs, but work w/kids on knowing that's important to ask first!
A3: allowing them to be sad helps promote positivity. Don't say it could be worse. Own what's bad & change it!
Side hugs are on the menu for me as well.
A1: I tell my students I love them all the time, I remind them that I love them even when they misbehave
A2: I rely on those who are better at this than me. but I'm working on it. Rarely do they approach me first
when I was with ES students, we'd do happy dancing together - it was a way to express joy & honor personal space
A3: talk about it (current events was brought up during lunch today, Ss respectfully discussed) we are models
A3 talk about how we become better people from these events.
A3. That's tough with younger students. Sometimes they ask about it happening at school. I reassure them.
A3 Even core content can be upsetting: slavery, Cherokee trail of tears... Find the good, the lesson, the love, & the meaning.
Lots of side hugging at old school. New school, kids were like, what's that?
A3: I remind them that there is bad in the world, but there is a lot more good than there is bad, and we need to focus on that
So, so true. What have we become when safe hugs can't be given readily? https://t.co/dw62zF8DLh
I feel bad for Ts and Ss who are stuck in no-hug schools. Kids choose a hug or a handshake at the end of each day.
A3: Allowing them to talk about it, analyze, and problem solve. Reassure them that they can be the ones to change the world.
A3: MS students, they are more mature/aware, can have open discussions
Yes, they should be allowed to feel what they feel &I not have it be dismissed.
I wonder where is tonight
A2 when I was w/preschoolers, thumb kisses were a big hit (touch thumbs and say "mwah!")
I know a teacher who crosses her fingers at students in the hall as a silent, touch less hug
YES! My Ss have really grown as individuals through our Lang & Lit content.
Do they even know who he is???????
A3 I always talk about how life is beautiful & horrible, and while we need to acknowledge bad, we need to work toward good.
A3 Mister Rogers said it best. Even in scary times, look for the helpers. There are always people that will help you.
My kids do. But that's just an example. Great quotes help a lot of us.
was it ever possible that adults shielded us from tragedy? Little people hear all now & value words of reassurance
This one, too, for sure!
https://t.co/EsvuBsCtwn
A3 Mister Rogers said it best. Even in scary times, look for the helpers. There are always people that will help you.
Totally stealing that to go with my microwaves that I use with KG so they stay quiet in the hall when they see me!
My 3rd graders loved Wonder this year. We read the Julian chapter after. So good.
https://t.co/yT8lOHXl2O
As a response 2 instances of bullying & iterations of hatred among Ss this past yr, I will be teaching "Wonder"
Great stories are great healers. Ss live thru & relate to young adult protagonists.Amazing discussions! https://t.co/Yc0oqAlilQ
YES! My Ss have really grown as individuals through our Lang & Lit content.
Yeah, I really feel bad for little kids now. They are exposed to too much!
A3 Oof. since I have the mod/severe MS pop, this doesn't come up a ton, tbh. Puzzlingly rare. https://t.co/u9HF1lKcUK
Jumping in late but I needed a little tonight.
A3 Show them the opening scene of Love Actually. Seriously.
A4: not sure this is what you're looking for: when the bucket is full, a good cry helps me to reset
A4: I find my friends. They help me cope when things are tough.
A4: write about it, always been a writer, not a talker (personally)
Hey, Sean! I meant to be here earlier, but dinner and all.
A4 Honesty. Hiding feelings is inappropriate and irresponsible for those directly influence our future. Model humanity.
A4: exercise, a nice long walk or kickboxing
A4 I lean into the pain for a little bit, but then I try to find things to help me dig out of it, or at least refocus.
A4: I try to be strong, lean on the people around me for support, co-workers, my husband, even my students can be a great help
Yes! sometimes a good cry helps all the tension and stress melt away. https://t.co/NQD0T2gh46
A4: not sure this is what you're looking for: when the bucket is full, a good cry helps me to reset
A4. I'm really glad we aren't in school right now. I have been very emotional about it even though I didn't know any of them.
For sure! Exercise helps me focus my thoughts.
A4 This was tough for me as a 1st year teacher. I would do my best to support the students, and find ways to do more good.
A4: I always tell my Ss the power of writing, I have had many write about serious/heart breaking events in their lives
Hey Joey! Good to see ya!
You would have LOVED my sauteed cabbage.
oh, yes - I run, too! Sometimes I cry & run but that only really works in the rain, other runners get concerned
A4 Sensitivity is a blessing & makes the best teachers. But it takes its toll. We need to share with each other. Honesty is all
Yes, and lets me escape them for a bit as well! Refocus!
You are so cute! :) Awww......
Me too, I found that music and making art helped me.
How do Ss cope when we are on break/vacation? Just curious. Hope they have a support system....
A4: reading......I always read about what I am experiencing
Some do. I've had too many kids who are being raised by wolves.
A4. Found a podcast today that distracted me as I drove. Funny and educational!
. That's been one of my concerns as well. https://t.co/hIty1woGeu
How do Ss cope when we are on break/vacation? Just curious. Hope they have a support system....
Can I just say, being sick in the summer is the pits
Yes! I also tell my Ss that writing, even when not shared, is a form of talking. Expressing feelings. https://t.co/7zCTG2I9Mf
A4: write about it, always been a writer, not a talker (personally)
This is one of the things that breaks my heart, the students who don't have a support system
It never occurred to me because my Ss are young, but I imagine this week would be especially tough for LGBTQ students.
A4: I cry to my momma. When my kids fail, I feel like a failure. And I cry. And then get up. And google it.
I have to drive now but will check in later!
It's comforting to know we have access to them when school in session.
Oh, no. I'm so sorry. Hope you feel better soon.
A4 podcasts are a HUGE support to me, too!
Late, but here . Val, Orlando.
I hope you feel better! The heat really doesn't help!
Yes, do tell. Some of us are driving in the morning.
A5: Have I mentioned anchors of appreciation? Been my go-to and people LOVE/appreciate them!
Thanks! I think it's a sinus infection. I've got to fight it!
A5: I usually get out the teacher emergency kit, complete with chocolate, tissues, and lots of hugs https://t.co/vaZWxbJZu6
A1. Through action and through examples in fiction and non fiction. It's remarkably easy to do even if you don't use the word.
I do that w audiobooks, save humorous ones 4 when I need them. Commuting alone can be good & bad thinking time
great point, also important to discuss these feelings among students to introduce further acceptance
Ugh. Hope you're feeling better.
A5: smile, compliment, LISTEN, just my time can be a gift
A5: Chocolate and a hug for starters. Then an open ear if its needed.
A5 Listen without trying to problem solve for them. Let them vent & "be" with their feelings. They'll ask if want your advice.
I've heard ads for that, it's on Maximum Fun Network?
A5 We would talk, play games, hang out- whatever we could do to find some light in our current state of dark.
Thank goodness it's been comfortable here. I've not been sick like this the whole year.
A5. Just like w/the kids: I listen. No judgements. No advice unless they ask. Hugs if they want them.
A2. Listening. As simple as that sounds goes a long way. Being consistent. Not judging what they share.
A5 Let them vent. Respond as apropriate.
I hate when people try to solve my problems! Amen! https://t.co/obGAQKzQUV
A5 Listen without trying to problem solve for them. Let them vent & "be" with their feelings. They'll ask if want your advice.
Q5 I've found simple things help "defeated" colleagues. Dropping treats on their desk, asking if they'd like to go for a walk
Q5 even sharing a funny video can help.
Sorry it's upside down! Good grief!
I'm a third grade teacher. If I can't handle upside down, I should move on.
you are just the kind of colleague I needed today 😊
I love to laugh.....just tell me a good joke!
something we take for granted-tough spot as Ts cant step on toes but support has to be in place
A5 With one coworker, I remind her that she's too hard on herself, and point out all of her strengths when she forgets them,
Exactly. I can read and write upside down. LOL
I love to read upside down in front of my kids!
Yes. He is going in depth with people from his show. Only 2 episodes so far.
A6. I'm thinking if you love someone it's much easier to create for them or with them in mind.
And don't let me catch anyone saying they're not creative. You're prob. just too hard on yourself.
Sometimes that's all they want.
that is some very specific psych knowledge Dork
A6. Translated to the classroom, that would be creating an environment in which your Ss will flourish.
A6: have a spot in the classroom with stuffed animals and coloring paper, Ss can go there to "talk" or draw out their feelings
Yes! Laughter is healing!
A6: Finding ways to spread the love! Challenging them to complete a random act of kindness for someone using their hearts.
hey if anyone is going to get called a dork that would be me
A6 When you're making, do it with love in your heart. When your heart is swelling, make something.
Absolutely!
https://t.co/tzd8JO3oQm
Well creation is a result of immersing yourself in something you love, something you're passionate about
A6. The class of 2016 made me the most creative teacher ever. I think the love we had for one another played a role.
A6 I approach meeting kids' 4 fundamental needs with love, laughter/creativity, leadership, & learning. Equally & always.
A4: Think deeply. Talk to Hug and Don't really share with colleagues
love that Sean. If pupils have theme/topic interested in they will be creative
A6: Reach out to any student you may see having a down day, even if S isn't in your room. Your kind words maybe the difference.
A6. Build in time for creativity. I know it's tough w/the demands of curriculum, but it's necessary for the whole kid.
A5: Kind note in their mailbox. Offer to chat again,
A5: Kind note in their mailbox. Offer to chat again,
thanks! Guess where I got the idea? On Twitter!
A6: Ss jump at the chance to express their thoughts/ feelings & love via stanzas, paintings doodles etc give them that choice!
and play hungry hungry hippos with Nathan
I'm out - time for a late family dinner! Thanks for making me smile...
Everyone welcome! I have Play-Doh as well.
I'm having a hard time keeping up. You are all such great resources!
In many of my Ss cases, survival mode...for two months... :( https://t.co/pgUNNcToEe
How do Ss cope when we are on break/vacation? Just curious. Hope they have a support system....
Q6 - I would think feeling safe helps.
Perfect answer to feeling down.
A7: positive attitude, smile
Great chat all! Head over to , a new chat! I'm guessing it's about not getting angry with your laptop...
I'm late to the love talk, but didn't want to miss it.
A7: Anonymous notes of encouragement.
Send me an address and I'll send some Flagler swag :D
This was a wonderful chat! Thanks for the questions and leading!
A6: Practice spontaneous acts of kindness throughout the year
Thank you for all of your amazing and thoughtful responses!
A7 The only way I know to grow any love is to GIVE the love- freely, genuinely, unabashedly. They'll each respond eventually.
A4: Watch funny videos with Her laugh is therapeutic
A 7 I was lucky to have great leaders in my school. I think love trickles down to the students when it starts at the top.
oooh love this! I have Ss do annon notes but Ts could too!
A7. Involving kids in decision-making whenever possible. They want to feel like their opinions matter.
I used to buy chocolate bars and give them anonymously with notes that said "You're Awesome!"
Yes, each has their own "timeline"
A7: I love the idea of the shared earlier. We often have no idea how others feel about us.
A7. Know their names and speak to them. Makes them feel like they matter to you.
Tell people you love them. Just do it. I love you.
Thanks again , and thanks everyone for participating. Orlando feels the love!
