Friday, March 1, 2013

SOLSC #1 Here I go again!


Here I go again!

March 1st.
I am participating in Two Writing Teachers' Slice of Life Story Challenge (SOLSC), writing a little something every day for all 31 days.  Last year was my first time to do this and I was exhilarated by the experience.  In the process, I had so much fun, and met so many interesting people, that I'm daring to do it again!  

It is hard work to write blogposts every day, especially when I more typically write just one a week.  But, as the month got underway, my mental focus about writing became more acute and I found myself being more observant as I moved through my days, delighting in small things that I might share about my work with children.  It as if the very knowledge of this writing commitment instigated the writing itself.  

This is the thinking behind many of the daily routines with children, isn't it? 
To "commit" them to gathering in whole group and sharing their thoughts, 
to "commit" them to working in small groups at centers and exploring a learning opportunity at a deeper level, 
to "commit" them to working and playing together and learning how to be with one another in community.

Is it through commitment that we heighten engagement?

So, for this month of March, I will expect for myself what I am expecting of the children - commitment to learning!  
Just as I want my students to do - 
I'm taking a risk.  
Putting myself "out there." 
Trying something that I'm not so sure about.  
Giving it my best.  
With a little nervous feeling inside me.

Thank you, Stacey and Ruth (Two Writing Teachers) for this exciting challenge!