It’s always hard returning from a vacation, no matter
what profession you are in. Setting the alarm clock, commuting, getting little
people ready to go in the morning (if you have them), dealing with colleagues,
the return of deadlines, the whole shebang. Here are some things that I do as a
teacher to help me return to the trenches:
Prep your return beforehand-
I was so thankful when I returned yesterday that I had completely prepared for
the first few days back. It’s so much easier to start back when you have all
your copies made, your lessons planned, and post-its labeling everything (since
you’ll inevitably forget).
Try not to take
work home- This is easier said than done sometimes, but I find breaks so
much more restful when I completely disconnect from work. I work really hard to
get my grading and planning done so that none goes home with me. More often
than not, when I do take work home on breaks it doesn’t get done, which makes
me mad at myself and just sort of dampens the mood of the last day or two.
Plan something fun
for the first post-work week weekend- I’m a big fan of weekend plans in
general, but having something fun to look forward to when I’m getting back into
the daily grind helps.
Caffeinate accordingly-
Whatever you drink in the morning, double it. TRIPLE IT.
Commiserate with
your students- My high school students don’t need Susie Sunshine on that
first day back- they need me to acknowledge that we are all on the I Want to Be Back in Bed Bus together. That’s really
something I try to do in general with my students- I admit when I don’t like a
poem, agree with them that the week has been achingly long, or that we all have
too much to do.
Tread lightly-
Let’s be honest, the kids aren’t going to be ready to write an in-class essay
after lollygagging about for a week or two. Of course plan something
thoughtful, relevant, and engaging, but also know the capabilities of your
audience.
Treat yourself
after work- Maybe it’s a good podcast, a(nother) cup of coffee, takeout for
dinner, trashy TV, whatever. You went back to work. You’ve earned it.
No comments:
Post a Comment