"Spring Fever!"

This is an exciting time of the year for all of us. And for our children, it is even more exciting! They can see "light at the end of the tunnel" as far as this school year goes!! Their excited behaviors can be trying to all of us! As I am traveling to different schools during this month of May, I constantly hear from teachers, "this time of year is very stressful and full of excitement." Even though this is a stressful time, we must remember that it is full of opportunities to make a difference in the lives of our children. This posting is a reminder for all educators and parents of some things to do to help our children during this "spring fever" time.

1. Remember that our children need to see a payoff for their efforts in order to stay motivated to do the things we need them to do. Reassure them that they can successfully achieve the intended goal, and remind them of your exact expectations. Continue with your high expectations.

2. We need to remain positive! We need to remind them that we trust that they can complete the assigned tasks and then be sure to reward them for their successes! These rewards should be personal and timely.

3. We need to continue fostering a risk-taking environment in which it is okay to make mistakes. Individuals should be able to seize the moment and not worry if they make a mistake while doing so. These opportunities should be relevant, worthwhile, and purposeful.

4. Continue providing the same enriched environment that you did at the beginning and middle of the school year. Challenging our children at the appropriate level of difficulty is important. Challenges should include varying degrees of difficulty, variation in the time required to complete tasks and projects, and variation in the amount of support given by the leader.

5. Have FUN and let your children do so as well!!

As a father, I continue reminding myself of the opportunities that are available for me during this "spring fever" time of the year. I ask myself, "what little things am I doing to assist my children make the best use of this time?" " What little things am I doing to enable an enriched environment that is both exciting and productive?" What little things are you doing that are making a huge difference in your child's life during this time of year? I would love to hear from you!