Thursday, January 10, 2008
I'm on hiatus
I've probably put in 24 hours of work into YW in the 5 days I've had the calling. I love it . . . and it is overwhelming. We have to plan everything from scratch, including New Beginnings, girls camp, etc. I want to get past this initial learning curve (which I guess defeats the purpose of "learning") and move onto focusing on the individuals. I am all about "people before programs." But first things first, eh?
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7 comments:
I agree with your philosophy - put in a ton of work in the beginning, set things up correctly, and then the program will run itself (especially if expectations are clearly communicated and personnel is well- and constantly- trained).
It's going to be great!
Amen!!!
I should also have mentioned that the biggest reason for my hiatus is that I need to spend time with my family and clean this enormous house.
i COMPLETELY understand the need for more time! I'm glad you're into your new calling!
I like you more and more. People before programs...
I just got another calling as a Relief Society teacher. Any hints? I'm scared. Sunday's the first day. It's on the First Vision. What a doozy for a first-timer, eh?
Kellie, when I was a teacher many moons ago, the eduction counselor said that she chose the smartest and most talented people to teach the RS!!! I took that to heart and I'm absolutely positive that her expectation made me a better teacher. I'm sure your ward's counselor would agree that you will be great.
My tips for teaching would include typing up everything you want to say (at least the first time--but for me it's all the time!) I even type my opening statement: "It's great to be here with you today and I'm really excited about this lesson because. . ." etc. That way when I teach I don't have to search for my words. (I don't read the sheet, but it's there for my reference if needed--including transitions between sections, which I find I sometimes just jump to without making sense otherwise).
The other suggestion I have is to let the class help you--I always thought of myself as a facilitator for discussion rather than a lecturer. Ask a lot of questions that everyone has an answer to, like "What have you noticed makes a difference in your family when it comes to . . .?" or "What are some ways you've found help you to . . .?" as well as some gospel/scriptural ones. If someone asks YOU a question throw it out to the group to answer. They usually have a lot of information that you (the general you) might not think of on the spot.
My friend Angie (the first commenter) is a great teacher and she loves breaking people up into small groups for discussion. That is a great way to get people talking and it doesn't leave you with 40 minutes to fill all by yourself.
My first YW lesson is titled "God the Father" so I can relate to the daunting task of teaching such a doctrinally meaty subject.
Good luck to you, my dear! I'm sure you will do well.
Thank you for the compliment, Rebecca. Maybe the 4-year-olds I am teaching will eventually agree with you?
Great tips. Thanks! I'll see how it goes. I am leaving a lot up to the women's participation, but I know they won't let me down. I have entered verbatim a lot of what I want to say. Hopefully I still don't stumble over words...Good luck to you, too!
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