Ninja Notes

Let us help you teach like a ninja!

Mental Health

Why You Should Revive Old Playground Games

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Playground games are a great way to build classroom community, burn some energy and have some fun. Come learn some of our favourite playground games and learn why teaching them is important.

Are you looking for something quick, easy and fun to do in the gym or outside at recess? We’ve been searching for games that students can play that don’t require a lot of equipment and or are simple enough that students can play them on their own with adult support. Playground games are the answer!

Students love older playground games that seem new to them. Even something as basic as teaching students a new chant to use while skipping can boost engagement. Read more to learn how we use playground games to build relationships, get in some physical activity and have some fun!

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3 Ways to Support Introverts in the Classroom

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What are you doing in your upper elementary classroom to support your introvert learners? We have some practical suggestions that will benefit all the students in your classroom, while giving your introverts a chance to recharge. Come read and get some tools you can use right away.

Despite what some people might know about me, I’m an introvert and as a student, being painfully shy made learning difficult. As a teacher, it’s made me acutely aware that it’s important to support introverts in the classroom. We need to advocate for their needs. Check out some of the ways we support introverts in the classroom.

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The Secrets of Social Emotional Learning for Kids

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Do your students have difficulty regulating their emotions? Do you need strategies to help teach students about feelings and how to calm down? This is the post for you. Come read the whole post and get practical strategies you can implement today.

We believe firmly in social-emotional learning (or SEL), self-regulation and teaching students about feelings. Students today struggle with identifying feelings, managing their emotions and staying focused.

Let’s not get into all the causes of why some students are unable to describe and manage their feelings, but more and more instructional time becomes wasted unless we intentionally teach students about to self-regulate.

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Unlock the Hidden Keys to Teacher Wellness

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It can be easy to let yourself get run down. The only way to take care of yourself is to figure out what you need for self care and then stick to it. Don't let teaching take away your health. Come unlock the hidden keys to teacher wellness.

What is it about teaching that doesn’t allow a person to fully turn off their teaching brain? Is the chemical composition of a teacher that makes them want to give every last drop of energy in the classroom? What about nurturing? Is teacher wellness a myth?

What is it that makes you a great teacher?

Like most teachers, you are a caring, compassionate person who would give the clothes off your back in order to make the lives of your students better. You are willing to give your hard-earned money to make sure they have the materials they need to be successful in your classroom. You’re willing to give your time to make sure they have the best possible experiences while they are in your classroom this year.

There is nothing wrong with any of that, but do you know when you’ve crossed the line into being unhealthy?

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