Primary Inspiration: Reduce Interruptions and Build Independence with This Freebie!

My guess is that I wouldn't get an argument from you on this statement: Just about every 4-8 year old thinks that there is nothing in the world more important than what he or she has to say RIGHT NOW!! Whether it's an urgent tattle or a pretty much invisible boo-boo, it must be addressed by you immediately, if not sooner! But, there you are, teaching a lesson to the class, working with a small group, conferencing with a student,... and pleading not to be interrupted! Why can't they be more independent?

Here's a way to build your students' independence while saving your sanity! Spend some time discussing with your class what does and does not constitute a real emergency in your classroom. Also, teach them the value of quietly speaking to 3 classmates with procedural questions, if you are busy teaching or conferencing.

Then hang this set of 2 posters near your small group area. After a few times reminding your students of ways to be independent (okay, sometimes quite a few times, but it'll work eventually!), you'll be able to just point to the posters, and your student-with-a-problem will become your student-who-handles-it-independently... and isn't that a great life skill to encourage!

Here are the posters. Simple, direct, and with a bit of humor. {Updated: the font on these posters is now Century Gothic}