July 17, 2009
We were on a walk this week and stopped to watch workers who were crafting a beautiful flagstone patio in front of a house. As we observed them, we marveled at their craftsmanship and skill. We realized after stopping to tell them how much we admired their work that they did not speak English, but through gestures and smiles were able to communicate our appreciation of their handiwork.
In the midst of our gesticulations, we distracted the man pouring the concrete into a wheelbarrow. He glanced up from his task at the same time a large lump of wet, gloppy concrete dumped into the wheelbarrow, upsetting its balance. It began to tip as if in slow motion. He tried to right it and we grabbed the edge, attempting to lend a hand.
We were doused in a bit of concrete before it was set right. Then relief turned to laughter which contagiously spread to the worker. Soon we were snorting and howling with tears running down our faces. In a matter of moments all five other workers were snickering and howling with laughter right along with us.
As we walked home, our thoughts were led to our schools and the children who come to us speaking little or no English. Often they are afraid, insecure and unsure. We were reminded of what a universal language laughter is. The deep breathing required is a stress release. Everyone feels better after a good laugh, and good hearty laughter is a wonderful way to build a sense of community. What are we doing to ensure there is time for laughter in our classrooms?
As you are thinking about your upcoming school year, take pause and see if you can build in some time to laugh with your students. Below are some great resources for fostering laughter in the classroom.
If They're Laughing, They Just Might Be Listening
The Laughing Classroom: Everyone's Guide to Teaching With Humor and Play
Laughing Lessons: 149 2/3 Ways to Make Teaching and Learning Fun