Monday, November 21, 2016

Hi, here is a link for a doodle so we can schedule a Zoom session to discuss the coaching book. http://doodle.com/poll/6fskapinph6gt3hr
 We will spend from 3:30-4:30  talking about Chapters 1 & 2 in the Coaching book. One of the 5 principles which guide Powerful Interactions is to be "strength-based." I would like to suggest that each of you go into an environment you work in with another teacher/child care provider and look for an effective practice that person is using. Share with that teacher  what they are doing well.  Here is an example:I went in to look for how a teacher was being intentional with her goals for writing.  If I had not gone into a classroom with the intention of looking for something positive I may have missed all the good stuff  happening. She had clip-on name tags which allowed the children to practice the pincer grasp over and over again (preparing young fingers to hold a pencil.) I am not sure if she did that intentionally but by my pointing that out to her and commending her on it, it led her to think of other things she could do to have the children practice. This was especially important for the children who were having difficulties holding a pencil. I also noticed and shared how she shared with the children they could "make a book" vs "write a book" because at this age children may not feel they can write but they certainly can  make a book. Be prepared to share your example.

 I am also hoping you can come up with a situation that has been frustrating for you when working with others in an inclusive setting. We will talk about the information in Chapters 1 and 2 to brainstorm as a group how the situation could be more positive.  

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Chapter 1 - Coaching with Powerful Interactions

This chapter mirrors what we read in Powerful Interactions with children. It asks when we are working with adults we commit to Being Present, Connecting and Enhancing Learning. Even though the book is not specifically written for Early Childhood Special Ed teachers who are trying to be effective as itinerant teachers in inclusive settings I think we can apply of the principles. The shaded boxes on Intentionality (page13) ,Static (page 14) and the Reality Check (page 18)really speak to me! I think it is about setting the tone for future interactions can be more powerful. Think about just Being Present the next time you walk into a classroom - following the suggestion to pause a moment to observe yourself and the other adults in a classroom. What did you observe that you probably would have missed if you would not have taken that time to observe? As a result, how did it change how you then made a connection? 

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Thanks for the great discussion on Monday! Check back periodically for comments, resources, or questions others are posting. One suggestion is to put a link on your desktop for easy access to check it out.  Hit Comment to add something. Make it a great day! Beth