By Gloria Nelson

My students love challenges whether they be physical, social, or intellectual. The following procedure has become a natural part of our work together in grades kindergarten through fifth. The activity generates more efficient use of our time during transitions, gives me a few seconds to take in some fresh air, and gives the students a chance to practice the Life Skills of organization, cooperation, responsibility, flexibility and patience. Ex. “For our next learning activity we will need a standing circle. As you sing ‘Row, Row, Row Your Boat,’ make a standing circle. I will take a short walk outside. When I return I will be looking for students who are ready for our next learning activity. Good luck.”

I give the starting pitch and leave. When I come back in they are either still “scrambling” to get things done OR they are sitting quietly with big grins on their faces. (If necessary, we “practice” a few times to get it “right”) I think the anticipation of when I will come through that door is what makes this simple task so much fun. As they get faster, I include little “extras” such as. “I will see a seated circle in which each student has placed one thumb on one knee.”