Today I taught the kids to employ switch in their partner discussions. I monitored their conversations and was pleased to listen to them engaged in a depth of discussions on topic -- prompted by my questions. I asked a few to stand and deliver the gist of their partner conversation. They were listening and discussing deeply with each other. I know this because the kids were saying things like," My partner thinks ...., while I think ..." Or My partner and I agreed that ..." I was impressed that the kids had so much stamina to participate at such a depth.

Meanwhile, the Classroom Rules continue to inspire the kids to look for ways to improve their behavior. If they "forget" to participate fully, they get another rehearsal (and another and another). It has been interesting speaking with parents about the shift to WBT at our school. Some are very interested; others still wish that the other kids would stop getting their own child "in trouble". Hmmmm....

I love SWITCH! It's just fun. It makes me smile just calling out, "SWITCH! UH OH Switch!" I do it with them (is that okay???).

Are the parents who are talking about the other kids getting their kids in trouble talking about the rules rehearsal? That's pretty fair discipline.....hmmmm.....and it's fun, too........

Anyway, I am impressed with your class discussion! That's so cool!!!

I think the parents who are still holding back are thinking of kids getting "in trouble" at school and so they try to deflect the "trouble" away from their own children by blaming others. They definitely need the inspiration of WBT. I love that WBT doesn't put blame on children but rather asks them to practice the expected behaviors. Kids don't need nagging or scolding. Rather, they need discipline, especially when they make the decision themselves to make smarter choices.Then we know that they are truly learning!

Amen, Klarsen!!!