Room For One More

December 18, 2015
Issue #387

Our hearts expand.

That has been our experience with the birth of each new grandchild. Our hearts, which once felt completely full, expand, making ample room for a new family member. We have a calm and resolute belief that there is always room for one more.

It is a motto that I endeavor to bring into the classroom. This is the time of year when we undoubtedly get a call from the office five minutes before the bell rings: “Mr./Ms. ______, please come down to the office. You have a new student.”

There is an initial adrenaline rush, followed by a mental reminder that this child can’t help that they are showing up without warning. Since students are masters at reading and mirroring the energy I put out, I want to make sure they reflect that we always have room for one more; in fact, this new friend is just the person we needed to make us complete.

The arrival of a new student is a perfect time to review Daily 5 routines and expectations. Current students are reminded of and have an opportunity to fine-tune their behaviors of independence, and the new student can begin building stamina with a clear picture of expectations in mind.

It's going to happen. Let's be calm. Let's be ready. There's always room for one more. 

For more, check out these helpful articles already published on our site. 

• Three helpful ideas for getting a new student up and running with Daily 5
• Teaching Daily 5 routines by reviewing the I-charts
• An initial goal-setting conference 

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