I scratched my scalp just as the recess bell rung today and it reminded me of my dream that I had contracted lice! I pulled my vest out and started walking down the hall on my way outside. Walking, but also carefully inspecting the neckline of my vest must have looked funny somehow because when I looked up, I saw another teacher walking toward me, looking at me with curiosity and then awkwardly laughing to which I responded with an equally awkward laugh.
I was too distracted to care and as I approached the exit door to the playground, I knew today was the end. The end of my “farming-out” my job as Recess Guard. For background, you may want to read my previous post, The Vest.
Yes, I’d stupidly forgotten to take into account that a case of lice was recently reported in one of the first grade classrooms!
And so when the bright-eyed, eager children asked to wear the vest, I replied firmly ”No.” ”The vest will not be shared anymore.” Disappointment ensued, but was short lived as they heard my reason. ” I want to be careful not to spread lice”. Very quickly, peace was restored and they ran off to play and it was back to business as before.
And, it was a cloudy day.
It is a pity as they get a kick out of being recess monitor. Maybe you could introduce a badge or something to show that they are your helpers?
Ah, such a great idea!! I will work on that next Monday. Thanks Colline
Let us know how it works out
Chiming in with the previous comment, I would say that you could use stickers as a way to reinforce good behavior on the playground – give stickers and then other children might “play nicely” to get a sticker so that you would be giving attention to the behavior you want to promote. I hope also that watching for good behavior will help reduce the annoyances of being recess monitor! Been there, done that, I know what it’s like. But also check with the school office about using stickers or any playground methods you use. When I did this job they told me of the phrases and terminology they wanted me to use on the playground, which was effective.
Thanks for The tips!