Encouraging Words
It is always a good idea that when things get really busy in our lives that we don’t forget to take a moment and smell the roses; especially in the classroom. Your students work hard each and every day. Sometimes a particular student shines. That’s when you need to stop the roller coaster called LIFE, and take a moment to appreciate that student.
I used to take a student aside at the end of the day and congratulate them on a wonderful day. However, I started to realize that as much as verbal compliment raises a student’s self esteem, the comment vanishes as soon as I deliver it. I wanted something the students could tangibly hold on to as a reminder that they have something special to offer the world and that there are people that love and appreciate them. After all, I keep all awards, special notes, or encouraging words that I receive. So, they should do the same, and I should allow them the opportunity to do so.
The technique I use is simple. I know there are many, many, many more creative and eye catching ways to do this. But, I want to do it daily and I am not made of money! Drum roll please….. *POST ITS!* The idea came into my head to utilize post its when the class joke of me being “old” (a ripe old 28, I know!) required me to write things down so I didn’t forget them. I constantly asked kids to run to my desk for a post it before the thought went out of my head. At the end of the school day, post its would be all around the room reminding me of something I had “To-Do.” So, it deemed fit to apply the same strategy with thanking my students for a job well done!
Sometimes I had pretty post its. Sometimes I had boring yellow post its. But, I have decided it’s not the post it that matters; it’s the words on the post it. So whether I spend an inordinate amount of money and time on creating this wonderful gift, the words are what will be treasured. With that in mind, boring old yellow post its work perfect!
Students loved the see them in the corner of their desk the following day. Most students said “thanks,” but many ran to me and gave me a hug. I’d always say, “Don’t thank me. Thank yourself. You did that!” Their smile grew wide that day and I couldn’t help but giggle as I’d see that post it inside their binder or cubby for the remainder of the year.
I ensure each child receives at least one throughout the school year. There are times where we had a fantastic day, and I award more than one post it. Then there are the days that no one really stood out, and I do not award any. It has not become a competition at this point. But, students do get excited to see if anyone received one.
Students loved this idea so much they started awarding me post its! Who would have thought? Hey, at least they are paying it forward…right?! 🙂
What way do you thank your students for a job well done?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.
This is a wonderful idea. We have a sweet note written on a purple post-it on our refrigerator right now that Jon received from his third grade teacher (he’s in 5th grade now). You cannot imagine the power in that little piece of purple paper:)
LOVE this. Thanks for sharing Nikki! 🙂