I've learned that...

The body is the most valuable learning tool we possess. And when I plan for my students to use their bodies as they participate in learning experiences (regardless of the subject), they gain greater access to the brain. And when I create multi-sensory learning experiences (using multiple pathways to memory, music rhythm & rhyme, social interactions, fun, and other brain-compatible strategies) as opposed to merely delivering information my students enjoy, remember, understand, and recall more of what I have taught. ​
Students who are physically fit and consistently eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet that is low in processed foods and sugar and high in whole foods have more energy for learning, learn better, seem happier and are better able to handle the small stressors of everyday life.
When I consider the brain chemistry of emotional states and plan to embrace the role emotions play in the learning process, I find I have happier, kinder, more motivated, joyful, and cooperative students which result in improved learning for all.
Having an understanding of how the brain uses time most efficiently for learning leads to more efficient use of the time available. Sometimes school days are scheduled to meet many needs, but the science of how the brain learns best is often not one of them.
When I take the time to plan backward, beginning with the end, and and following the Understanding by Design model for unit development, both I and my students all have a much clearer focus.
When I apply my understanding of how the brain and body learn (specifically the biochemical process of learning and memory) as I organize, plan, and engage students in learning experiences, my students remember more, can recall more, and are more motivated to learn what I have to teach.
"So you watch yourself about complaining. What you're supposed to do when you don't like a thing is change it. If you can't change it, change the way you think about it." 
Annie Henderson

​When I remember to remember this quote by Annie Henderson (Maya Angelou's grandmother), I am able to handle things I don't necessarily like in a positive way. This woman really understood the importance of state management, and as a teacher, I know it is most important to manage my own state first.  
When I include strategies to help students meet their needs for safety, connection, belonging, competence, power, autonomy, enjoyment, and fun as they interact with me, each other, and the content matter everyone learns and grows more. And that safety must always come first. 
I believe that if all schools subscribed to the skills and powers of Conscious Discipline, written by Dr. Becky Bailey, we would begin to see a shift in our world.
A well-designed scale or rubric is an invaluable teaching tool, but I don't need one to measure joyful learning. I just need the ability to read emotional states and either keep things going or reflect and make the necessary changes to improve the experience for everyone.
Think about a time when learning was the most enjoyable for you. How did you feel? What were you learning? Where were you? Describe the surroundings. How were you learning? What was the process? How did you measure progress? Can you use the answers to these questions to create more memorable learning experiences for your students?