Start your summer programming off with something new! We all feel refreshed when we try a novel idea/concept and it works! Because the summer tends to be more relaxed and a little less structured, it is a great time to try new things. Transitions, scheduling, activities, and groupings are all good places to change things up.
In order to do this, you have to be willing to take a risk. With risk taking, comes increased anxiety! Jump in with two feet, be excited and see what happens. More than likely, it will be a smashing success and something you may want to implement in the regular school year. If it doesn’t work, use it as a learning opportunity and adjust accordingly.
Some ideas that you may not do regularly during the school year:
- Cooking projects
- Science experiments
- Walking field trips
- Art units
Different transition ideas:
- Eye spy
- Students wearing _______ (colors, clothing types, shoe types, etc.)
- First letter of their first name Sound bowls, rain sticks, xylophone, etc.
Scheduling options:
- Backwards days
- Play first, then snack
- Small groups then whole group
- Outside play first, then inside
Grouping changes:
- Try groupings of odd numbers – this causes more conflict which provides opportunity for social skill development and problem solving
- Group by choice – give students choices on activities and group them accordingly
- Interest groupings during free choice
Although these suggestions may not be new to you (and there are so many more), you may have developed a habit of doing things a certain way. Use your summer teaching time to change things up and think outside of the box. This will keep you and your students interested and challenged!
