It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these, but I think it’s appropriate considering it was the kiddos’ first day back from winter break. I honestly expected everything to be chaotic and unmanageable, but the day went pretty smoothly overall.

I missed my kids so much. Don’t get me wrong – I enjoyed every last bit of winter break, but I was overly giddy when I saw their faces this morning. I. Love. My. Job.

During my two weeks off, I had time to reflect on the good, the bad, and the ridiculously ugly. I, often times, get frustrated with myself when a behavior plan starts failing miserably or a child starts acting out even more than usual (which is typical when a new plan is introduced). I get upset when I don’t see immediate growth with my kids. I always think of what is NOT happening with my kids and what I could be doing better. Which is good. Sometimes. But I think it’s important for me to stop, breathe, and remember that so much growth has happened since the beginning of the year.

1) Four months ago, one of my sensory-seeking students was sitting through less than 10% of class instruction. He used to throw pencils at other students, run into other kids pretty forcefully, pull ponytails, and occasionally bite other people. Today (and the two weeks before break), I watched as he sat through each of his classroom blocks. I was able to see him work for 30 minutes without engaging in any avoidance behavior. I was able to see his confidence grow as he learned how to multiply numbers.

2) We are collecting data on our students’ reading fluency using AIMSweb. Data speaks louder than words. 100% of my kids are making progress on their fluency goals.

3) My mindset around the success or failure of a behavior plan has shifted significantly. I used to feel lost and confused when a plan wasn’t working. Now, if a student runs out of class to avoid work, I realize that a) we need to continue being consistent and give the plan more time or b) if the plan really, truly isn’t working, then we reconvene and tweak it. Simple. No need to throw my anxiety or tears in the mix.

4) Work/Life Balance 2014. I know it’s only been 3 days since I’ve been back to work, but I BELIEVE that 2014 is the year of work/life balance.

 

My job is fairly active, but there’s really no feeling like the feeling you get when you kicked your butt at the gym. I haven’t missed a workout (aside from 2 rest days) in the past 2.5 weeks. Sounds silly to celebrate. But I’m celebrating. Join me.

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What are you looking forward to most/already celebrating in 2014?