TEACHING: THE ART OF JUGGLING AND JIGGLING

Teaching is a noble profession, they say. It’s a rewarding experience, they say. It’s a great way to make a difference, they say. Well, they’re not wrong, but they’re not exactly telling the whole truth either. Teaching can be tough, stressful, and at times, downright maddening. But fear not, amazing teachers, for there are ways to make your life easier. Here are some tips to help you reduce the stress and keep your sanity intact.

Tip 1: Learn to Juggle

No, not the circus kind of juggling, although that might come in handy too. I’m talking about the art of juggling your many responsibilities as a teacher. Lesson plans, grading, parent-teacher conferences, staff meetings, extracurricular activities, and oh yes, actually teaching your students. It can be overwhelming, but with some careful planning and organization, you can juggle it all.

One way to do this is to create a schedule for yourself. Set aside specific times for lesson planning, grading, and other tasks, and stick to it as much as possible. Use technology to your advantage, such as online grade books or scheduling apps, to streamline your work and make it easier to manage.

Tip 2: Embrace the Jiggle

Teaching is not a stationary job. You’re constantly on the move, whether it’s walking around the classroom, bending down to help a student, or carrying a stack of papers. This can be tiring and uncomfortable, but there are ways to make it less so.

Invest in comfortable shoes and clothing that allow you to move freely. Take breaks throughout the day to stretch and move around, even if it’s just a quick walk around the classroom. And don’t be afraid to embrace the jiggle – it’s just part of the job.

Tip 3: Laugh it Off

Teaching can be stressful, but it can also be hilarious. Kids say the darndest things, after all. Learn to laugh at the absurdity of it all. Share funny stories with your colleagues or keep a journal of the ridiculous things your students say and do.

Laughter is a great stress reliever and can help you keep things in perspective. It reminds us that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge, but also about enjoying the journey.

Tip 4: Seek Support

You’re not in this alone. There are other teachers who understand what you’re going through and can offer support and advice. Seek out a mentor or join a teacher support group. Share your struggles and successes with others, and learn from their experiences.

​Don’t forget about your personal support system as well. Lean on your family and friends for emotional support, and make time for the activities and hobbies that bring you joy.

Teaching can be a challenging and stressful profession, but it doesn’t have to be. By learning to juggle your responsibilities, embracing the jiggle, laughing at the absurdity, and seeking support from others, you can reduce the stress and enjoy the journey. So go forth, amazing teachers, and teach on!