Plan C

In my years of training other teachers I've always told them when one plan doesn't work or a child isn't learning than you need to change your plans. I've found the same true in my years of teaching. So, why shouldn't I do the same with the staff themselves? The original group of

                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

staff that I trained at the first center I trained in all of the technical stuff and then gave them tons of activities and various ways to try things. So what happened? After they ran through all of those things they came back for more, not looking into themselves at what they could create on their own. After a while (a long period), they finally looked to themselves. This second team at the new center I decided to give them the basics, a few examples, and then let them figure out the rest on their own, leaving with them plenty of resources and materials. The result, not much. It's always been difficult getting the staff to use their imaginations and creativity. It's not that they don't have talent. When I've given them assignments they come with some marvelous, innovative ideas. However, in trying to get them to carry that over into the classroom is like pulling teeth. I do keep in mind that although they are very creative they were all brought up in schools where only rote teaching took place, no hands on experience. So plan C? I'm doing the whole activity myself and teaching the children and letting them assist me! I'm using the same exact materials and resources that I have available for them. We had a meeting this morning and I showed them my literacy board (pictured below) and explained how I was going to use it and they saw what materials I used, they all kind of hung their head down in shame. I didn't want to make them feel bad but I wanted to motivate them and encourage them that they could do the same and more! So what happened? When I peaked in on their planning session today they were busy making all kinds of things and for the first time ever one staff member stayed past quiting time to make some things for class on Monday! Score! Pray for their continued motivation so that the children can have the best learning possible!