In what other career do you legitimately get to take so much time off? I used to work at a Fortune 500 company and I can attest that this is much better than the 10 vacation days per year that I got there! Not to mention, I get hugs, smiles, and precious comments from little kids each and every day. What a wonderful profession!
But, as much as teachers love their work, they cherish their time off just as well. Summer spans before us, a string of lazy days to be filled however we choose. Even those teachers who work in year-round schools will want to make the most of the breaks in their schedules.
Here are some ideas for maximizing the joy and productivity of a vacation from the classroom:
- First of all, relax and recharge. By taking it easy, you can mentally, physically, and spiritually recuperate from the stresses of the school year and prepare for the job ahead. Sleep in. Sit by the pool.
- Read a book just for fun. Pamper yourself for awhile and you'll be able to give more of your talents to your students next year.
- Make your dreams a reality. Write that children's book you imagined a long time ago. Take that vacation you always wanted. Get in touch with a long, lost friend or relative. Stop procrastinating and begin using this time to your advantage.
- Ponder your successes and plan improvements. You don't have to write anything down. Just consider what worked well in your classroom last year and what can work better in the future. Mull it over and make a mental plan.
- Develop yourself professionally. Maybe towards the end of the summer, you'll feel ready to get in gear for the fall. Take an online course from the comfort of your home. Read a practical education-related book that can really help you and your students. Surf the web for sites that enhance your curriculum.
- If you need extra money, pick a job that complements your interests. Teach SAT Preparation courses. Work at a bookstore (think employee discounts!). Tutor neighborhood children in your home. A summer job doesn't have to be a drag if you approach it correctly.
- Most of all, feel grateful for whatever time off you do have. Savor family moments. Escape mentally, if not physically, from your normal routine. Smile as you think about the young lives you touched last year and the difference you will make in months to come.
