The first day
by Rita Foelker
The fear and apprehension that describes the teacher's first day with children could be faced in a pleasant and natural way.
The first day of class is filled of conflicting emotions to children and teachers: meeting anticipation, happiness, curiosity, hesitation, fear. It is a special moment: the rise of a group that is going to work and learn together the whole year.
Deep links may take longer to be created, however promoting a welcome and natural atmosphere in the very first moment will encourage trusting and participating wishes.
For that very reason, start by being natural and confident. Do not think about what you want others to see, just be yourself focusing on getting the better in you being gentle, enthusiastic and interested on your job.
Be conscientious on planning this first day meeting, but leave fears and doubts behind. Trust yourself and in the Spirits who co-operate with all child and young educational job. If you are calm will be easier for the insights to come up.
And do not be terrified if things will not happen in the exact way you have planned. Changing your mind according to the situation is being humble as well.
Welcome children in high spirits, because we are celebrating the beginning of a new stage for everyone. Have something special in the place, if you can; something that shows this day is not a regular day (ornamentation, happy songs). A well-done welcome poster always helps everybody to turn to good temper.
Be kind, but do not overact. Hug, kiss, and be tender! Enjoy the moment.
It is appropriate to have ready a warm-up activity to connect the group, according to the children's ages and characteristics.
After that, start a mild chat. Tell them who you are, how you feel, what you want to do. Let the children talk about themselves, how they feel about coming back to class or beginning in this group, and what they want to do during the year. This is a good opportunity to talk about what being in this group means for each one of them, and which expectations they have.
After all, sharing is one of the best things to do in a group.
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