Five Ways to Encourage Student Voice and Share Power in the Classroom
As educators, it’s natural to hold onto some control in our classrooms. And, sharing that power with students opens up so many possibilities. By doing so, we not only strengthen their sense of belonging but also create a more positive and equitable classroom environment. When we allow students more ownership, we open the door to…
Engage Kids in Problem Solving
Family meetings are a powerful tool to build the life skills that we want our children to have. Holding family meetings helps children learn empathy, cooperation, mutual respect, and effective, solution-focused problem solving. The consistent practice of gathering as a family, giving and receiving compliments, and solving problems helps families run more smoothly and builds…
Campbell Hill Classified Staff use Data and SEL Strategies to Help with Transitions and Recess
The classified staff of Campbell Hill Elementary, in Renton, WA, works hard every day to be sure that students know they are safe, belong, and matter in the unstructured spaces like the school playground and cafeteria. This team of educators meet monthly to align their practice, continue their learning about social emotional learning and trauma-responsive…
How Family Meetings Can Help Kids Learn to Use Their Voice
Now that the school year is in full swing, we find ourselves settled into the hectic monotony of rushing kids to school, prepping dinner, and getting ready for bed. How do you connect with your kids and give them a voice in the family amidst the daily chaos? Consider trying out family meetings. Family meetings…
Five Ways to Encourage Student Voice and Share Power in the Classroom
As educators, we may (often unconsciously) hold on to the power in our classrooms. But we do have the choice to share power with our students. Sharing power and prioritizing student voice strengthens students’ sense of belonging and diffuses power-over dynamics between educators and young people. When we let go of some control, we are…
Use Real Life to Develop Problem-Solving Skills in Kids
As your children begin to transition back into the classroom, life will yet again change for your family. Routines, either altered or dropped as we moved into the COVID online learning world, will need to be re-established and tailored to fit the new reality of our kids going back to school. It can seem overwhelming…
How Teachers Engage Students and Stakeholders in Problem Solving
Many schools are transitioning back to hybrid and in-person education, inviting students back into the halls and classrooms that have stood empty for over a year. The logistics are daunting. Despite all of the safety precautions required to accomplish this move, the transition also offers us a chance to reimagine how our education system operates.…
Including Student Voice in Transition Planning
Education is undergoing another major transition. There are voices of power from state governments, districts, and school administrators attempting to balance pandemic safety needs and the learning needs of youth. All stakeholder voices should be heard in the planning and reimagining of education, including students’ voices. Students have a unique perspective on classrooms, schools, and…
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