I think I was so caught off guard at learning from my kids because I have been so caught up in just what a tough group they truly are. Getting through the day is quite a challenge, to say the least. I am realizing as I get to know my kids that getting through the day is also a challenge for them as well. Some of them fight against severe adhd, learning disabilities, autism, and not to mention what I call "family disabilities." And I expect them to meet my expectations, follow my rules all day long...and learn? Ha.
I began to see the idea of making it through the day, even just until lunch time, was overwhelming to them. How is there even a hope of a smiley note home at the end of the day when the task of staying in their seat, raising their hand ,not sucker- punching the kid next to them, and paying attention - all for 6 hours straight -is so daunting?
So we are trying something new. A few of our guys needed some "motivation." But hey, who doesn't, right? We broke the day down into 15-30 minute sections where they are given a smiley if they have displayed the appropriate behaviors and the end of each segment.
Their response has been intriguing. Who knew? Now, they know they can make it through 15 minutes. The day is not so looming when they are sure they can make it just for this moment. Just when they think they can't make it anymore, here's the smiley, and a new block starts.
In designing this routine for my kids, it hit me that this is all the Lord asks of me. This life of abiding in Christ doesn't seem so daunting when I remember He only asks this day of me. He told us not to worry about how we're going to do it tomorrow...but to just trust Him for His abiding today, this moment. (Mt 6)
May I never stop learning from my kids. I am the teacher...what a paradox.
Interesting thoughts Ash!
ReplyDeleteGlad to see you have blog...I totally look forward to reading it.
Didn't know if you knew I had one as well...laranchita.blogspot.com.
Hope all is well:)