Being a building leader can bring about much on any given day. Honestly, the unpredictability of how each day will unfold is one of the things I love most about being a principal. No matter what the day brings, here are three items that are whimsical, silly and playful – no matter what you do in the world of education, these items will bring you (and your students) joy!
Bluetooth fanny pack – Yep! Seriously the best $50 I have ever spent! Every day I greet students with a jammin’ play list that has us all dancing our way into the school. Music makes people happy! Walking around during arrival and dismissal, or through the halls with some happy, upbeat, kid-friendly music gets our day started off on the right foot…so to speak.
Mini shredder – Ever have a student who had nothing nice to say when they were dysregulated? This tool comes in handy when a child (or adult) needs a way to vent their frustrations or feelings and doesn’t want to say them out loud. I have people just write whatever they are feeling on a note or post it and then we talk about releasing those feelings by shredding them. The act of writing it down often helps a person let go or process through what they are feeling, and the ability to shred the note after writing it can provide a catharsis for the writer.
And last, but not least…
Blowup Costumes – Being silly with my students, faculty and community sometimes means I wear a goofy blow up costume for the Jog-a-thon, assembly, or other special event. It’s not like I have a bunch of these items, but I do have a few…the laughter and giggles that I hear when I show up in one of these makes it all worth it! I’ll admit this only happens once or twice a year, but it is one of the things I hear kids and families talk about and remember.
Whatever your leadership style, these three items bring about my playful side and have made my work life more joyful. Maybe there is something here that speaks to you! Find joy in the little things 🙂
Learning, Leading, Living 