#TMchat Archive
Current and relevant education discussions are held every Tuesday in #TMchat. A weekly guest moderator, considered an expert on the the week's topic, joins @conniehamilton to guide the one hour chat and actively engage with participants. Founder and moderator @conniehamilton supplies her responses to the week's questions visually in Thinking Maps.
Sunday December 6, 2015
I'm Connie Hamilton, but I'm on a cruise. Meredith Johnson is your moderator tonight. Let the introductions begin.
Hello! I'm Hannah, a pre-service T in PA. I'm so excited for the tonight!
Hi! I'm Martha, a teacher candidate in California. This is my first ehchat and I'm excited
Our format will include 7 questions. Use A1 to respond to Q1 & remember to include hashtag in all tweets. https://t.co/JKsIY2mtKT
thanks for joining us tonight! Are you ready for the holidays?
Greetings Friends! Teresa, High School admin in Huntsville, AL
Hello! I'm Jenna and teach 1st grade in Phoenix.
Your first chat? I am thrilled your here!
Genevie, an Instructional Coach, checking in from Texas!
. You're on a cruise AND you're on ?
Hi, I'm Sydney from PA. Excited to learn from everyone tonight.
I'm getting there! There are so many loose ends to tie up, but there's always time to choose joy
Hello, I'm Nardi, 4th grade teacher from Florida!
Hi I'm Coleen, a soon to be secondary education teacher from Nevada.
Hi I'm Rachael a pre service-T from NY, excited to learn!
Hi! I am Terry, 2nd gr T in Fl
Hi Spiri from PA, 3rd grade G&T
Jason here. 10th grade Math/Science/Construction, Cochrane Canada. Hi everyone!
Hello! Edbacker here tuning in from DC! We work with , which, as we all know, are always stressed
Arina Bokas from Clarkston, MI. Editor and college writing instructor.
I bet there won't be snow there this year! Thanks for joining us
Jessy from Michigan. Hello.
Thanks! I'm working to get back into the swing of things! Glad to be here.
Thanks for joining this evening
No snow here. I have to wait until I go home to Chicago :)
Hi there! Need to get back to my PLNs. It's been too long
David Barrett, school support coach, Austin Texas. Happy to join in again!
Tim Christensen, Supt. Greene County CSD, Iowa
Great to be here, my friend!
Connie can accomplish anything she sets her mind to do!
You are so wise to figure out how Connie can get this all done!
I know ... haven't seen you in a long time. : )
Hey! Very close to San Antonio.
Maranda Principal & SpEd director from Greene County CSD, Iowa. Stress? What stress? Excited to chat tonight!
YOU MADE IT!! I am thrilled!
Enjoy your cruise! Sounds wonderful!
A1 Not being able to find time to slow down, reflect on the season. It feels like a marathon, not a joyful journey.
. Harf! Just tweet 'em like I see 'em.
Cassie Bardole, 6th grade Lit/SS teacher, Iowa
Evening Rachel. I hope you enjoy learning from all of these great educators!
Thanks for joining this evening.
A1 I think planning too much causes me stress.
Twitter is so amazing when others speak up and share their thoughts. Thanks for being here tonight https://t.co/mU6jg7lJSe
A1 Internal tension comes from what I THINK I should be doing and what I HAVE to do.
There's ALWAYS sunshine in Phoenix :)
Someone from da north. Great to see you hear this evening.
Good evening learning leaders! Greg- 2nd grade, Maryland.
Stress-not enough time to get all tasks completed during holidays. A1
We work with down in Austin! Hello friend!
Tis the season! Thanks for making time for tonight
I am so sorry to hear that, my friend! My dad passed away about 6 years ago and it's still very difficult for me.
Good chance you'll have snow for the holidays. Thanks for joining tonight
I agree having expectations of what needs to be done causes stress
Like your graphic Meredith. A1
A1: finding the balance can be hard during the holidays- work, school, family, education, etc.Easy to get overwhelmed!
Great to see you tonight.
My balance has tipped in the wrong direction. Trying to find it. A1
This can also stem from our unspoken expectations for people in our lives
Thanks for being here tonight. Always good to see you and read your comments.
A1: Shopping. I can't focus on it until the break starts so aside from mail order stuff I am a savage last-minute-er.
WOW! You sure have a busy schedule.
Too many to do tasks on an endless list. I just packed up my autumn decorations. A1
I think a big part of this comes from taking time to determine our priorities! We need to have purpose!
A1: I feel as humans we cram so much into a few small weeks, and desire it all to flow and run smoothly, when it doesn't = stress.
Carol - glad you could stop by tonight!
A1: Motivation. I'm wanting to do everything Christmas but I also have work. I guess my head is on the holidays just like the kids
Ben Lausten - curriculum specialist - bouncing in and out from the chilly Colorado mountains
A1- I try not to allow the work to become stressful. Take it one day at a time, and enjoy the ride. Joy in little things.
Same here! Shopping doesn't happen till I'm off for break.
Hello .. urbie not far from phoenix, arizona. instructional designer
Thanks for being here Cassie.
It's easy to be overwhelmed with work, school, friends and family
What happens if there are multiple priorities? I dance a jig that swirls constantly. A1
I am seeing answers to Q1, but haven't seen the Q.
A1: It's easy to get overwhelmed with family, friends, work and school
A1: There never seems to be enough time, right?
Greg I enjoy reading your thoughts in each chat you join
A1: Trying not to let the holidays put on the additional pounds.
Great perspective - I often (foolishly) stress about situations that don't yet exist. https://t.co/LxqtSwgSsx
A1 Internal tension comes from what I THINK I should be doing and what I HAVE to do.
I have a column up for her...still didn't see it. , but thanks
Now that is a stressor especially when there seems to be no time to exercise. A1
A1: Balancing work, coaching, family, friends and trying to be give my all to all of those things at the same time
Thanks for the kind words, Meredith! Glad to be a part of on a weekly basis.
I'm too late on that one!
Same! Would love to jump in and chat, just don't know the question
Those mountains will soon be covered in snow? A white holiday season?
Hello . Cathy--MS principal from upstate NY.
You got it! We have to make time!
A1: It is easy to be overwhelmed with school work and balancing a social life
A1) I'm in a func, school functions, holiday functions, family functions, too much
So glad you could join this evening!
Priorities...Tried to go to the gym today but my time slipped away. A1
It's in figuring how to best allot our efforts. If we do many things in a haphazardly, does anything really get done?
Can someone retweet q2 please?
A1 I feel a little less stress this year, becuase I don't have college finals to study for right now
Very true. Warrying about the future doesn't make it better; it makes the present worse. https://t.co/OkjdUyd6xz
Great perspective - I often (foolishly) stress about situations that don't yet exist. https://t.co/LxqtSwgSsx
A1 Internal tension comes from what I THINK I should be doing and what I HAVE to do.
A2 Walking is still my favorite. it gives me this reflective time that I need.
Excited for chat tonight on holiday stress.
A2: Trying to squeeze in some time at the park with my son and hubby.
A1: A busy schedule. Home, school and church can be stressful if I allow it.
A2: Ice diving and pond hockey :)
couldn't agree with you more!
especially with final exams and projects right around the corner!
Julie from Chattanooga- definitely getting caught up in things/events instead of people and the reason for season!
A1 Trying to balance work and home (especially getting holiday stuff done).
A1 That is very true, still being a younger person I suppose I put pressure on my significant other during the holidays
actually got some good early season coverage - then nothing new for the past couple weeks https://t.co/CpqQX6BjYU
Those mountains will soon be covered in snow? A white holiday season?
My family likes walks on the beach. We're 15 min from the ocean-so relaxing there. A2
A2: This is the time of year where it's actually nice in Phoenix :)
I have committed myself to working out twice a day. Morning before work and at night when I get home.
A1- Making sure everyone has a great time and knows how much I appreciate them. 💚
Q2 The weather outside may be "frightful" but sunshine and exercise might be just the thing to reduce stress
A2 jog, take the dog for a walk, riding my bike
Q2. . What outside activities are your favorites during the holiday season?
A1 Stressors.. well known. Heavy hitter is lots o' projects & people on holiday. Mitigated by planning. https://t.co/JSYRynvH2E
A2: not a fan of outside activities in the cold but I do try to get to the gym, need to do that more- slacking lately
Yes! Would add: pray, relax, listen to good music. All stress relievers, IMO. Pray being most significant.
If anyone missed the 1st question Q1 Would you share what causes you the most stress during the holiday season?
A1 Trying to spend time with everyone
A2 I am a rower so anything on the water :)
A2: I enjoy skiing with my family over the holiday season!
A2: Ice-skating and looking at likes with my family. What is better than some ? Always makes the stress go away for me!
A2: skiing! great way to get out there and forget about the stressful things in life. Ski my problems away
X-country skiing & snowshoeing - escape from the stress, eat race, & crowds
Q2: Taking a walk in the snow with friends can be a great stress relief!
A2 Don't get any snow out here in Southern CA
A2:Taking a walk in the snow with friends can be a great stress relief!
A2) snow tubing w/my family & friends
Workouts are crucial for my stress level as well. Doctoral classes, teaching HS, three kids and teach college. Great advice!
A2- Going for walks down city streets where decorations are aplenty while drinking hot chocolate. Joy in simple things.
Yes!! Taking time to slow down & enjoy the time we have instead of bemoaning that there isn't more. https://t.co/9fAe98BtDp
A1 Trying to spend time with everyone
A2- Going for walks to see all of the Christmas lights, Making noise outside on NYE.
dancing is my other love I agree with you
A2 Try to go for an occasional walk, but hit the rec center in the morning before school to run and lift.
Q3 What are the holiday tasks that cause stress? How can you reduce it?
a2: planned vacation to go south (the Florida Keys) over break for exactly that reason-- sunshine and playing outside w family
A2: I may or may not have already gone riding around looking @ christmas lights, okay like 4 times already! https://t.co/EpdysgwGgi
A3 Looking at changing lights on the Xmas tree always brings peace.
A3: Having time to go shopping for everyone that I love! I've taken to online shopping this year..so much easier and efficient!
A3: Too much to do. Say no to some things. It's ok.
Q3: buying gifts. You can reduce this stress by making a list of exactly what you want to buy before you go to the store
A3: remembering that worth is not derived from how great the holidays are. Take time to choose rest and choose joy!
. Some people go on a winter cruise! i.e.
A3: Decorating the outside of the house can be stressful especially when you're the one on the roof!
I know its not a task but can cause stress can reduce it by not stressing over small things https://t.co/mcsPIeYlLS
I may or may not have started doing that the day after Thanksgiving...
A3- Wrapping presents- start earlier! 😉
Some people DREAM of a cruise!
Love the Biker's Shuffle!
A3: The holidays are fun for me, but I get stressed thinking of my Ss whose holidays are not fun :(
A3 time with friends and family relaxes me
A3- Shopping on day after Thanksgiving- lines are long, & people forget their manners. I avoid by not shopping that day. :)
Yes, that can be quite the concern.
A3: Giving yourself too much work over the break. Everyone deserves time off. Your and will appreciate it!
. Only been on once--and that was totally out of my control!
A3: Amazon. No going to the store. 😉
A3) missing loved ones during this glorious season
definitely! You don't have to stress over that if you don't wait last minute
A3: Holiday traffic is stressful. I try to avoid it as much as possible.
We buy lots from Amazon. No stress
. Only been on a cruise once--and that was totally out of my control!
I haven't heard of the Biker's Shuffle I am a tap/ballet dancer wish I knew ballroom
A3 decorating! I reduce the stress by delegating tasks to hubby and son
A3: Our first Christmas without my dad will be a unique stress this holiday season.
A3: Not only do I buy online, but I use the school as a shipping address so my kids don't see the packages. https://t.co/pByR849sUN
A3 Pressure to do what everyone else does - a bandwagon mindset.
Thank goodness for online shopping.
Yes! I think I watched 3 this weekend!
Thank you. Hanging in there.
A3 Trying to successfully meet everyone else's holiday expectations. Get our plans established early.
Fun: getting line 16' tree! Stress: time to finish decorating. Current status of tree: 1/3 lit. 😜 https://t.co/yvyfWrvWMy
What can we do as educators to help relax, have fun, while also over the holidays? https://t.co/J2PKkGZPXI
A3: The holidays are fun for me, but I get stressed thinking of my Ss whose holidays are not fun :(
Q4Being in a state of appreciation helps curve the sense of fear. Share your favorite ideas about showing appreciation toward others
I love to decorate my house for the holidays and write poetry. Definitely creative outlets for me to reduce stress.
maybe giving them ideas for things to do with their families/loved one
Model the value of reading good books and then send them home with them!
Help students to check out books that interest them so they have a book to escape to when things get stressful!
A4: Anonymous cards are always fun and encouraging to receive!
A4 I love to cook for others, my way of sharing my appreciation
Hello. A3: finding a place for the dog. No luck yet.
And we never really know if they truly liked it or not. : )
A4 Ring the bell for Salvation Army.
A3: Appreciation can be seen, heard, and felt. Many of us interpret appreciation in diff ways.
Cook? What is your favorite thing to share?
A4: Operation Christmas Child is a great way to give back! You should check it out
but the thought is what matter, right? ;) https://t.co/uJQV0WXUA8
And we never really know if they truly liked it or not. : )
A4 I like to bake bread and share with friends!
Hi -A4: Idea about showing appreciation to others is what my Prin. did- print up I'm thankful for u cards and put them in our box.
A4: We should do this all the time- encourage our students by giving specific compliments on the good in them!
A4- Be intentional about recognizing others daily! A simple hello and a smile can go a long way. Recognizing S hard work, growth.
A4: Trying to be understanding of the stress we are all under.
I'm out a little early so I can get some extra sleep. Have a great week and enjoy this wonderful season!
Never heard of that, definitely will look into it https://t.co/MV65ggT6Ry
A4: Operation Christmas Child is a great way to give back! You should check it out
Great idea! Maybe as a , create a holiday reading list and then see who can the most books during break?
A4 Gratitude's a mindset. It doesn't come just at holidays. It's in little things, kind words, thank you's, forgiveness, letting go.
Thanks for being here. Sleep well!
A4 I try to affirm Ss and Ts when I see them embracing learning. Everyone appreciates being noticed, but it makes me feel great too
A4: Truly knowing the people that I love and what makes them feel loved & appreciated---then doing it!
A4: Blessing people throughout the Holidays. I try & be observant to see who might be placed along my path I can help out.
Great! A4 Understanding and patient...
Love seeing all these ideas related to reading!! How do you get engaged too?
A4: We earned appreciation points for pleases and thank yous in 3rd grade. I still say them...and now I understand why! TY Ms. S!
A4) I like to bake cookies and share w/ my neighbors, donate to Toys for Tots
I love to bake. Holidays are right for sweets.
It's difficult sometimes.
You fill up a shoe box w toys & necessities for underprivileged children. So rewarding!
A4 that is very true others recieve love differently
Give books they can read and talk about WITH their Ss. Encourage them by sending home a flyer or email!
A4: I like to write a note thanking those for all of their help throughout the year. A little note goes a long way!
This right here!!! https://t.co/EIVaMC9SA6
A4 Gratitude's a mindset. It doesn't come just at holidays. It's in little things, kind words, thank you's, forgiveness, letting go.
That sounds wonderful https://t.co/JnOw5T0HD0
You fill up a shoe box w toys & necessities for underprivileged children. So rewarding!
Acts of service make me feel like I contribute to a greater good. A4
Yes you are so right, especially when time is precious.
A4: People thrive on encouragement. I try to give encouragement to at least 10 people each week. https://t.co/m7csGkU3yd
Q5 Santa checks his list; at least twice. Please share a method you have used to keep tasks and events organized.
A4: My love language is Acts of Service. I need to remember to show appreciate in other ways too. https://t.co/P42O9kuzmz
A2: I prefer to stay indoors and read books to reduce stress.
We have a giving tree at church so my family has always provided multiple wrapped gifts.
We will talk about books in just a bit.
Exactly! If I'm on the go, then everyone should be...but we are not all the same so I must be patient.
We have many people in this chat session sharing with each other - we are so fortunate!
What about encouraging to read over the holidays too! It will help with their & set a good example
The Sunrise Calendar App is my savior!
A3: Our holiday tradition is to make our own Christmas tree with fallen tree branches from the winds we get (like tonight).
A5: I would B lost w/out my google calendar. Just made a list 4 this week, took a pic on my phone just in case list goes missing!
My son keeps trying to get me to use that. I see you are hooked!
A5: My Google calendar & phone are essential in keeping me organized! Writing to-do lists & crossing items off is so satisfying!
A5 I use the simple note app on my phone along with the calendar on my phone to remain organized
A5 Never to be confused with Santa, I am a list person too. Multiple notebooks with multiple lists.
A5- Organization is not my strong point, though working on next steps and thinking and moving forward has been positive.
A5: I use Google Calendar to stay organized! It's a must in this busy season!
It is great to move forward with a goal.
A5 I would be more stressed about gift giving if I didn't have an ongoing list on my phone of gift ideas
Love that will become part of read aloud experience-so imp.
A5: I have some amazing Ss that keep me organized. Especially this time of year! Thanks for holding me accountable kids!
A5: I make a list of my To Dos each day when I come to work. It feels great when the list is completed! https://t.co/QimMt8c2Vv
that's great! I'd want to make sure Ss reading wont depend on their busy parents, though! Encourage both and we all win!
A5: Sticky notes are the best method for me. They're perfect little reminders I can leave around my room or house
Great idea to have it on your phone when on the go go go!
A5: Write it in my work journal...if it's not there, it's not getting done.
A5) Apple Watch and iPhone calendars help, but I still like to write events on a wall calendar
What a lovely tradition. You should tweet an image of your tree when it is complete. A3
A5: Google calendar and reminders on my phone.
A5: I also still write on an old-school legal pad . . . And Google Calendar
A5: Yes. Anything cloud helps. The ToDo add on in Chrome helps me (when I remember to look at it). https://t.co/PtRoMMx5RQ
A5: I would B lost w/out my google calendar. Just made a list 4 this week, took a pic on my phone just in case list goes missing!
A5 Set reminders on my phone and focus on one thing at a time without thinkng of the next one.
A5 I have fallen out of practice of writing in my journal, need to bring that back https://t.co/Z4dxPtixCi
A5: Write it in my work journal...if it's not there, it's not getting done.
I would love to see photos of the trees all of you have decorated!
I have 6 children, mostly grown. Boys all get the same thing, diff colors, girls, same thing. https://t.co/qLQaL2oW7B
A5 I would be more stressed about gift giving if I didn't have an ongoing list on my phone of gift ideas
A5: My sister used Giftster to let everyone know what my nieces wanted. Great way to prevent duplicates. https://t.co/VjciYh2RTO
Great way to get things done!
I LOVE legal pads. I can't ever have too many! https://t.co/6ebN4RP9tR
A5: I also still write on an old-school legal pad . . . And Google Calendar
that makes things simpler ;)
Agreed. Keeps you focused.
Holiday magic! Thanks for sharing
A5: Remember as you cross off your To-Do List add these to your "Accomplished" List. It's amazing how much you do each day!
Q5: I have a giant calendar/planner combo! I find the prettier it is the more I use it, too!
A5: I have my calendar posted everywhere and add tasks for each day to the bottom. A checklist for each day helps keep me organized!
A5: I have a giant calendar/planner combo! I find the prettier it is the more I use it, too!
Always a pleasure to collab w/ fellow educators on . Signing out early tonight to prepare for learning tomorrow. Have a great week!
Connie is magical with her thinking maps!
Color coating everything always seems to work best for me!
Phone calendar (Google) =brain. Would be lost without it.
It is so interesting how dependent we all became on technology https://t.co/W2Vqtb47Pw
Phone calendar (Google) =brain. Would be lost without it.
If it's not in my calendar, I will not remember it.. just plain and simply
Stepping out early this evening. Thanks for all the great ideas!
I am joining late. Jessica Barth Principal in Constantine, MI
A5: Google calendar and Wunderlist (on all of my iProducts)
My thoughts will be with you during the holidays. I hope you have a great week.
Actual brain should help as well, don't you think?
A5 I feel so forgetful,, only way around it is to write it down somewhere https://t.co/SP7q4UYLa1
If it's not in my calendar, I will not remember it.. just plain and simply
I am very tall too! I am glad you joined us!
A6 Creating Cutures of Thinking ; Creative Schools, ; Reclaiming Conversations
A6 The Smartest Kids in the World, Amanda Ripley; App Generation, Howard Gardner & Katie Davis; Future-wise, David Perkins
Using calendar for brain frees up the real thing! https://t.co/o5H88zxeOQ
Actual brain should help as well, don't you think?
Being educators I bet everyone will have lots to share about question 6
A6: for children I love "Oh the Places You'll Go!" looking forward to what others have to say!
Q6 Educators love to give books as a gift. What book would you like to recommend to others to consider giving?
A6: Dead Wake, The Devil in the White City, Infinite Jest, A Dog's Purpose, The Essential Calvin and Hobbes
Writing things done helps with my ! If it is written done, I won't forget it. How did you do this before ?
A6: I just finished reading "One World Schoolhouse: Education Re-imagined" by 's Sal Khan - I recommend it to educators.
It sparkles SO bright! I love it!!
Here you go - Q6 Educators love to give books as a gift. What book would you like to recommend to others to consider giving?
Journal https://t.co/JtZPnJV4W3
Writing things done helps with my ! If it is written done, I won't forget it. How did you do this before ?
A6: Maya Angelou's Letter to my Daughter https://t.co/GM0SfxYn4K
Q6 Educators love to give books as a gift. What book would you like to recommend to others to consider giving?
A6: "Work Hard. Be Nice." If you haven't read it, it is a must for this holiday break!
"The Smartest Kids in the World", "Teach Like a Pirate" https://t.co/K096E8QHY6
Q6 Educators love to give books as a gift. What book would you like to recommend to others to consider giving?
A6:"Shifting the Monkey" is a great gift for leaders. "The Book Whisper" is a great for open up the conversation of JUST reading.
A6 Math Girls by Hiroshi Yuki
A6. Click and save this list to help you locate the title of a great book to share as a gift. https://t.co/q8cmYssZWe
Great suggestions! :::writing quickly::: :-)
A6: Books (always w message inside!) are the best gift! Tailor to recipient's interest! Legos, adventure, cookbooks - anything!
A6: Junkyard Wonders by Patricia Polacco. Inspiring story
A6: I really like giving my books to read over break. Has anyone heard of "The Student Leadership Challenge?"
I worked with a fifth grade teacher who was wonderful to give Ss books twice a year.
A7 Love is the only power given to humankind that can erase stress, doubts, fear, hurt. Open your heart and let it happen.
No but sounds interesting https://t.co/UZCnBPRm7e
A6: I really like giving my books to read over break. Has anyone heard of "The Student Leadership Challenge?"
Question SEVEN coming right up in ONE minute.
Q7 Tis the time for sharing and caring. What would you like to share with others that has been an effective stress buster for you?
A7 the hard one but good one..not procratinating
This is a great idea!! https://t.co/0MCf3oKmd9
A6: Have kids record 60 sec video to last year's T "The one important thing I you taught me was... You made a difference"
A6 The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science
A7: Joy is a choice! Take care of yourself and take the opportunity to have fun and rest- this only helps us be our best later!
A7 also allowing myself to have "time off" for me thats spent dancing
"oh the places you'll go" by Dr. Zeuss!
A7 Love is the only power given to humankind that can erase stress, doubts, fear, hurt. Open your heart and let it happen.
Love that one SO SO much we have it written on the wall in the school. https://t.co/S9lyZu4MRq
"oh the places you'll go" by Dr. Zeuss!
Me, too! I try to ballroom/swing dance 3-5 times per week! Creative, stress reliever, and fun!
A7: My dogs sit on my lap and let me read to them every night! They are the best stress busters! Anyone w/o should rescue one now!
Join Dec 13 when we talk Mentor Texts with guest moderator
, will you share more about this book? https://t.co/Qc3BEUin3a
A6: I really like giving my books to read over break. Has anyone heard of "The Student Leadership Challenge?"
Thanks for a great chat! Have a great week everyone! Shine Bright!
A7 opening our heart is sometimes difficult but I agree good for our happiness and healthy
A7: Don't forget to take care of YOU. Take a nap. Workout. Spend time with family. Do something that simply makes YOU happy.
A7: taking time to make someone else's day can often have a huge impact on yours! Spread happiness wherever you go!
You will be here next week!! That is so very exciting and a great topic. I will be here with bells on!!
A7 Spending time with my two children attending college. I love to hear them talk about their experiences.
