Conflict Escalator
Conflict Escalator The "conflict escalator" is a useful idea for understanding conflict situations.This activity suggests a way to introduce the concept to very young children (kindergarten or first...
View ArticleAffirmation Interview
Affirmation Interview In this activity, students interview and learn about one another. Introduction Discuss the word "interviews": What does it mean? Have the students seen interviews on TV or in...
View ArticleRespect for All
Respect for All During Respect for All (RfA) week, students in schools across New York City will participate in programs and activities that teach them to value diversity and respect one another. They...
View Article5 Tips for Teaching Current Events to Younger Students
5 Tips for Teaching Current Events to Younger Students This piece originally appeared on Teach Hub. When my 9-year-old daughter asked me "Who is Trayvon Martin?" I knew this would take us into new...
View ArticleHolidays: Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Not
Holidays: Sometimes Happy, Sometimes Not To the teacher As the holidays approach, many people are looking forward to spending time with family and friends and sharing in the joys of the season. It...
View ArticleGuidelines for Stopping Oppressive Behavior
Guidelines for Stopping Oppressive Behavior Oppressive behavior can take many forms, ranging from hurtful remarks made in ignorance to insults, threats, and physical violence. The appropriate adult...
View ArticleTeaching about Controversial or Difficult Issues
Teaching about Controversial or Difficult Issues Teachers often avoid "hot-button" topics because the issues are so complex, or because they don't feel prepared to handle the strong feelings and...
View ArticleFall Jumpstart: Build Community, Explore Issues
Fall Jumpstart: Build Community, Explore Issues Students will: Engage in a story-telling and web-weaving activity Begin building the classroom community Discuss the butterfly effect and...
View ArticleInterrupting Oppressive Behavior
Interrupting Oppressive Behavior What to do when students make hurtful remarks - or worse? The appropriate adult response depends on the behavior and its intent. Here are some things to keep in mind:...
View ArticleThis Fall, Creating a Caring Classroom is More Important Than Ever
This Fall, Creating a Caring Classroom is More Important Than Ever The 2019-20 school year opens at a time when many people are grieving – and demanding action – following a series of mass shootings,...
View ArticleOnline Games to Get Your Class Engaged & Connected
Online Games to Get Your Class Engaged & ConnectedIntroductionBeginning a new school session with engaging games can help you and your students get to know each other, cooperate, and build empathy...
View ArticleFeelings & Needs Share Out Tool
Feelings & Needs Share Out Tool Here's a process and a tool you can use on a regular basis to check in with your students to see how they are doing and what supports they might need. Do your...
View ArticleVideo Read Aloud: Paloma's Secret
Video Read Aloud: Paloma's SecretPaloma is a fifth grade star goalie, a best friend, a daughter, and a big sister. As a new school year begins, difficult feelings start to creep up on Paloma, making...
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