I took the 4th and 5th graders on our school's camping trip again a few weeks ago. It is always a lot of work, a lot of stress, and a lot of fun.
I did notice an interesting phenomenon this time. One of the hardest jobs is to get the attention of 50 excited kids at any given time. I have tried about every "teacher trick" there is, but I finally found a way that works a hundred times better than any other way. I would start singing a camp song. Within a few seconds a room of chaos would turn into a chorus of "The Other Day I Met a Bear". A kid would be in mid-shove as he tried to get to the front of the dinner line, but immediately stop in order to do all the actions to "The Princess Pat". It was also quite refreshing to see some of our little gangstas lose their image for a few minutes while they sang "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes".
I have always loved music, but I have a whole new appreciation for its power over human behavior.
5 comments:
I'm going to try that with my kiddos : ) Wow you did the camping trip again?? You're amazing!!! Love you!!!
Wow. I don't know if I would have thought of that. How amusing.
And all thanks to girl's camp!!!
Next time teach them 'Black Socks', it will consume their thoughts until they can't think of doing anything else.
You are amazing!
"Black Socks" is actually one of the most requested songs of all. They love it!
You are soooo creative! That was true inspiration. I believe I will try that the next time my nephews get out of line!
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