Results of the IFIP Summer Competition! How do teachers relax?
The International Forums of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP) invited members come up with the best suggestion to answer this question: ‘How can teachers relax’?
Our winner is Abhilasha Singh, Principal at the Shing Star International School in Abu Dhabi. She sent through an amazing photograph of Indian mountains with this reflection:
“Unplug the devices, digital detox, long walks in the mountains, unwind with your family, put your feet up and let your hair down, fish out your reading list and immerse yourself with family time...”
Abhilasha receives a copy of ‘The Inclusive Classroom’ by Daniel Sobel & Sara Alston. Find out more about the book here:
There were lots of other good entries, including these:
Robert Cilia (Malta)
“My idea of relaxing is going up and down the steps leading to Schlossberg Castle in Austria three times in a row at least!”
Helen Claus (NL)
“Emails off, alarm clock off, high heels off, walking shoes (or sandals) on, sunglasses on. Catch up on some jobs around the house on the ‘to do’ list. Meet up with family and friends. Slow life down from a sprint to a walk.
Doreen N Myrie (USA)
“I've developed a new hobby!! Yay!! I figured out I can make my own necklaces out of fabric and beads. This will save me money because I won't buy necklaces again!! I'm wearing the one I just made!”
Frank Nampwera (Uganda)
Teachers can relax and refresh themselves while visiting new places like:
a) film halls b) swimming pools c) dancing clubs d) spending time playing with young animal babies.
Candice Holme (UAE)
“The tried and peer reviewed method of wearing Christmas pyjamas and watching ‘Brooklyn 99’. Studies have shown that wearing any joy filling clothing and watching comedy show/movies will result in the same feeling of relaxation. Kitten is recommended, however, not mandatory!”
Helen Topping (UK)
“Switch off all tech and spend quality time with family and friends. Be at peace with yourself and just breathe and enjoy!”
Jennifer Tunguz (NL)
“For each teacher, what helps them relax will be different. You have to find something that feeds your soul. For me it is a quiet walk in nature, or sitting in nature with a good book. Being surrounded by the sights and sounds of creation rejuvenates my soul!”
Jasmane Frans (South Africa)
A particularly thought provoking entry – that actually addresses some of the underlying issues.
“Taking time to reflect and just be, knowing they (teachers) are the true heroes equipping our leaders and workforce of tomorrow. My picture is of a NQT that felt under pressure and I took her for a drive and let her just be, whilst I stayed in the car, working. She came back ready to pick up the baton again. So in essence, it is good to also spend time with those who can affirm you without talking shop.”
Aneira Morgan (Malaysia)
“How teachers relax! Treat yo’self! Hot tubs in the cold mountains…”
Vivien Gyuris (Hungary)
“Travelling, visiting new places, experiencing new colours, new flavours, new senses”!
Helena Wallberg (Sweden)
“Schedule in some recreation between meetings and classes. Even 3 minutes to deep breathe or stretch a little can help.”
Lena Smeaton (UK)
“Obviously by reading a good book! Haha!! My favourite would be The Inclusive Classroom!”
If you are interested in hearing more about our brand new ‘Global Inclusive Teaching Initiative’ Click here for more information PLUS A FREE RESOURCE: ‘Inclusion is a verb’ an article, also written by Daniel Sobel.