Responsibility
One of the learning skills that our school is focusing on this term is responsibility. This week, we read a book and had a discussion about what it means to be a responsible student at school and why it is important to have rules at school. Students understand that they are being responsible when they are doing what they are "supposed to do." Together, we created an anchor chart. Students helped to generate the criteria that they believe is important to follow in order to demonstrate responsibility. I have been referring to the chart frequently to highlight responsible choices and to remind students to check this chart and use it to assess their own choices and actions. We have also discussed some other criteria not recorded on this chart (e.g., responsibility with bathroom breaks and demonstrating responsibility by applying our best effort to all areas of our learning. I encourage you to continue the discussion with your child.
Children have many opportunities to go to the bathroom. They are encouraged to go to the bathroom preferably before, during, or after recesses or during snack time, or table work if necessary. I have asked that students refrain from going to the bathroom while lessons are being taught and instructions are being given. One student asking to go often signals a chain reaction and it can become quite disruptive. I have discussed with the children that when they are given permission to go to the bathroom, that it should be for the intended purpose and the expectation is that they will return to class promptly. I have reminded them that the bathroom is not a place for play. Students are given body breaks in the class during each block so a bathroom visit should not be a body break but rather a necessity.