Student wellbeing is strongly linked to learning: when engaged and satisfied, children learn well and behave well. It stands to reason that part of that satisfaction and engagement comes from teacher continuity—having a teacher who knows the children, who creates a positive learning environment for them and feels good in themselves.
This coming weekend, I’m presenting the icebreaker at the Early Childhood Teachers Association conference in Queensland, attended by almost 600 professional educators, as well as a workshop presentation on stress management techniques using laughter yoga.
My sincere hope is that more early childhood teachers will take seriously the importance of engaging their own inner child to deal with life’s challenges. It is such a shame to see so many, particularly early career, teachers abandon their profession because of occupational stress.
(c) HeatherJoy Campbell 2017