I learned a little bit more about persistence from my three year old. When she is awake, my husband and I barely have opportunities to talk to one another. She has this wonderful way of making noise that is one or two decibels louder than our conversation. It's cute for about two nano-seconds...
On a recent work day morning, Luke and I were conversing with one another when Shea came into our bedroom saying, "Daddy, I want more books." (As if the stack of books that she was already having trouble managing wasn't enough...that's a post for another day). He quickly acknowledged her request by responding, "Shea, I'll get you more books as soon as Momma and I are done talking." His acknowledgement was met with, "Daddy, I want more books." After the 5th or 6th request was not fulfilled, she grabbed his face between her two little palms, looked him straight in the eyes and said, "I'm not giving up. You don't understand...I want more books!"
What's the lesson in this? When something is worth fighting for...fight for it!
Let's apply this principle to the classroom. When it comes to teaching and learning...what are you willing to fight for? What are you willing to stand up and insist on? In conversations that I have with teachers, I often hear that there is not enough time to fit it all in. Well, that's true. It has always been true. It will always be true. You can't add minutes to the clock. So...instead of thinking about what you don't have time for, start to consider what you DO have time for. Then, decide what you will MAKE time for.
On the top of my list is reading books! Persistence for getting her hands on more books worked for Shea. Will it work for you? MAKE time to read to your students everyday...MAKE time for them to read too!
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