Saturday, July 1, 2017

The 5-Second Rule

What a difference 3 weeks can make. One of the biggest reservations I had about teaching this summer was having to have what are called, "Desk Talks" with students. It refers to when a teacher needs to speak one-on-one with a student disrupting a class.

I was also a bit reluctant to speak to parents about possible behavioral or academic setbacks their children might be having. I associated both responsibilities as confrontational and wanted to avoid both at all costs.

But a funny thing started to happen the more I taught. I gradually fell into a groove, took command of my classroom more and more each week, and didn't hesitate when an issue needed to be addressed. I implemented what is called, "The 5-second rule."

The idea is simple. When you know there is something you should do, but your mind alerts you of the danger and gradually persuades you to steer clear you go to the fear anyway. The longer you wait the less likely you'll address the problem. If it helps, you can even count to yourself.

Just remember not to wait. GO. TO. THE. FEAR. 

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