Creating Those Moments

Good night Jim Bob.

Good night Mary Ellen

Good night Elizabeth

Waltons was my favorite television show growing up. Being an only child I always wondered what it would have been like to be in their family or in the Brady Bunch? Life seemed so simple and uncomplicated.

Now life is busy and families are overscheduled.  Classrooms are busy and overscheduled.  I often wonder how to put the brakes on in my class?  I search for those moments that my students will remember from fifth grade. What will be their defining memory?  Will I know it before hand? Will that moment even be in my lesson plans? Probably not.

One third of our school year is complete.  I continue to unwind the State Standards while reflecting on the practices that will support the lesson. I desperately try not to lose the chance to create that elite moment.  I’m constantly weaving in opportunities to share a new picture book in my mini lessons. During math, we discuss multiplication and connect to a real life example even asking them to collect menus as they go out to eat. “How much would 3 pieces of chocolate pie cost?” Their writer’s notebooks hold treasured thinking, and I inquire about what they choose to write about each day. We share little snippets that might create that special moment for them. 

Life is busy. Life is complicated. Within the walls of my classroom, my wish is that there will be a certain moment that will resonate with my students, and someday they will recall their Walton’s memory. An extra thanks to Sarah for being my cheerleader this week and encouraging me to step forward on this post.  I had closed the door, and you helped me open it.  You're an amazing friend!