What is the definition of the word worry? Any thoughts? Worry occurs when we assume a responsibility that we were never intended to have. How often do we worry about things that are just out of our control? I do all the time. But, what responsibilities are ours and ours alone? We are all responsible for out thoughts, words, actions, attitudes, and motives. As teachers we need to teach our kids about these areas. For the next five days I will be sharing tips on how to teach these responsibilities to our students. We teach in two ways, through direct instruction and by example. How can I be an example for my students and help them to always evaluate their thoughts? Instead of asking them after a bullying event; what were you thinking, ask them daily; what do you have on your mind today. Begin an open dialogue with your students. A technique I happen to really like that I learned from Dr. Allen Mendler who wrote Discipline with Dignity is called the 2 X 10. Take a student that is a known bully and have a 2 minute conversation with him like you would with a friend. Ask a question or two about other classes that the student is in, or maybe discuss a sports team you know that he/she is interested in. Do this for 10 days straight. What will happen around the eighth day is the student will come to you for the conversation. You can then begin to peak into the thought life of this student. You may make a new friend.
Enjoy The Responsibility Worksheet
Bench Notice
Responsibility and accountability: These are words that we see as very interchangeable. But, really not so much. A child or an adult can be responsible for their actions without being held accountable. Often students are found responsible for their actions but are never held accountable with a consequence, or a consequence of any meaning. By that I mean a consequence that will stop recalcitrant behaviors. Children and adults are imprinted by their up bringing and their experiences and by past events that will drive their thoughts into actions. This can be both good and bad. When thoughts are formed that are negative in nature these thoughts will begin drive behaviors such as isolation, depression, and anxiety. A positive imprint will result in the development of a self image and a world view that promotes thoughts and the belief that I am a contributor and that I am capable. Children who have been victimized by abuse, neglect, hurtful words, and exclusion can begin to believe the lies to be true and see themselves as unworthy of healthy and rewarding relationships and experiences with others. Bullies are driven be power, victims are driven be revenge. We need to begin to focus more on the victim than on the bully if we are going to make a difference in the mental health of our children and help to improve the climate of our schools.
