Working in partners/groups vs. working independently:
One of the best ideas I decided to try out a couple of years ago was creating an anchor chart with students about what each of these looks like and sounds like. (I tried to find a picture of my chart I made my last year as a classroom teacher but couldn't find it!) Students often know what these should look and sound like but having the discussion with them and having them come up with the expectations is so powerful. I've had students have very real and vulnerable conversations that during independent work, the student needs quiet to really do their best work. The way my classes have changed after that vulnerability was drastic. Students (at least elementary age) sometimes believe that teachers are just asking for silence for silence sake; when really it is to give students an opportunity to show their best work. But when it comes from a fellow student, the impact is greater. How do you set up students to be successful in small groups and independently?

What are some of your favorite dramatic play experiences that you set up for your students?

What are some ways you help students to calm their bodies throughout the day?

For example, sometimes we stop and take a few minutes to breathe deeply in quiet pose and reset for the next task.

What are your favorite new read alouds?

Recently our district began professional training that focuses on Classroom 180 - Trauma informed classrooms. What professional training or resources are your favorites?
https://www.classroom180.com/

FREE SEL Resources for quick check-in/s and support: https://www.ginapepin.com/_files/ugd/5fe563_dde7da71d3674f06a3764b08ee207c3e.pdf

https://www.ginapepin.com/blank-10-1