Spring time can be a difficult time to find joy in education.
Students are super excited for summer.
Teachers are tired and looking forward to summer.
Admin has a countdown calendar until summer.
So basically, everybody is ready for summer and rightfully so.
But what if JOY was the top strategy to help us get to June?
Joy isn’t just a byproduct of success—it’s a strategy in itself.
When we prioritize joy, we are investing in a school culture that values relationships, creativity, and well-being.
It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture either.
Small moments of joy—whether it’s a funny story shared at the beginning of class, a lighthearted activity to break up the monotony, or a simple “thank you” at the end of the day—can make a world of difference.
These moments build connection and trust, and those are the things that help both students and teachers excel.
How to Cultivate Joy in Your Classroom
So, how can we, as educators, strive for joy in our schools? Here are a few ideas to start with:
- Embrace the Power of Positivity: Focus on what’s going well in your classroom. Celebrate small wins, both for students and yourself. Recognizing progress (even when it feels slow) builds momentum.
- Incorporate Play: Play is not just for recess. Whether it’s through interactive lessons, games, or activities that allow students to move around and have fun, play stimulates the brain and fosters a sense of enjoyment.
- Foster Relationships: It’s never too early OR never too late to build strong relationships with students. Genuine, positive relationships are the heart of a joyful classroom.
- Prioritize Self-Care: As teachers, we often give so much of ourselves to our students that we forget to care for ourselves. Taking time for self-care—whether it’s a short walk, a favorite hobby, or simply taking a breather—helps us bring our best selves to school each day.
- Involve Students in Creating Joyful Moments: Ask students what brings them joy in school and try to incorporate those ideas into your lessons. Let them contribute to the classroom culture and be active participants in making the school a place of joy.
What are some ways you bring joy into your classroom?
I’d love to hear your ideas and stories in the comments below!