[jcflies]

My class of first graders really DO try hard and they are learning by leaps and bounds. ALthough I keep telling them that I'm pushing them so hard b/c of how smart they are, I worry that I'm too impatient...There's a lot of developmental stuff going on...We have so much pressure upon us to PRODUCE, PRODUCE, PRODUCE! They can't just sit around and be six anymore... As a result, the entire grade level, at my school, tends to go a bit ballistic at recesses! You can just feel their collective sigh of relief, as they let LOOSE! has anyone else noticed this?
Thanks,

[TeacherMeg]

I have noticed the exact same thing. There is SO much pressure on us as teachers, especially with common core. I have found myself losing my patience with kids so much more this year already, and it's really not their fault. There is no time left to just be a kid. It makes me sad.

[krazykaye]

Why can't we just let them be kids....

[AD]

I've actually let up on my class this year compared to other years. They are young acting, love to do crafts, and love to play. I am normally a very academic and curriculum driven teacher (I still am-I'm not slacking); however, I give them more breaks and choice time than I've ever given a class before. Honestly, when they have their little breaks here and there, they produce such better work and are more focused. We've been taking an extra recess mid-morning for about 10-15 minutes and they are rockstars when they come in from their extra recess.

Our principal is okay with it right now because he knows this is a high energy and high needs group.

I still feel the pressure no doubt yet I'm letting myself be okay with a little extra recess or choice time here and there.

[jcflies]

I'm been doing this, too! AM SO GLAD THAT SOMEONE ELSE IS DOING THE SAME!!! I'l drive them SO HARD for 40 minutes, and then give 4 minutes to just "chill," walk around the room, talk to a friend, or unwind (WITHIN parameters, of course). i've found that it TRULY helps my high-energy class, as well... I might just consider an extra recess! LOVE iT!

[JJ2011]

I have 13 girls and 3 boys this year, all I hear all day long is this one did this she said that I hate the reading series and I know cc is suppose to be easier but really!? I feel like I'm losing my mind! I am beginning to hate teaching!