New Teacher Tips Linky!

I am linking up with Caitlin from Kindergarten Smiles and her 'New Teacher Tips' Linky.  I have experienced the "new teacher" feeling twice in my career.  My first teaching job was straight out of college.  I taught a combined 1st through 7th grade Self- Contained Learning Disabilities class.  That year I experienced my first migraines.  I was so stressed and overwhelmed.  After teaching a few years I took a break from the classroom and worked part-time as a Parent Educator in a program called Parents as Teachers.  That job turned full-time and I ended up staying several years.  I missed the classroom so I went back to teaching and began my current teaching assignment.  That is when I experienced my second "new teacher" year.  I can tell you it was stressful, but I knew it would get better so it was easier.  I guess that would be my first piece of advice.

• HANG IN THERE!  IT WILL GET EASIER. :)
• BE CONSISTENT!  Your year will go much smoother if you have your discipline plan in place.  I like Harry and Rosemary Wong's book 'How to Become an Effective Teacher: The First Days of School.  This book takes you step by step to help you set up your classroom management plan.

• Don't feel like you have to do it all.  Take one day at a time.  Do what you can and remember that even the most experienced teachers feel overwhelmed from time to time.
• Ask for help!  Teachers are amazing collaborators and most will be very happy to help you with discipline ideas, lesson plans, etc.

• Make sure to save time to take care of yourself.  You have to have a life outside of teaching.

• Parents can be your greatest asset. Take time to cultivate a good relationship with the parents of your students.  Good communication is the key.

Thanks for reading!  Have a great day.  :)