Monday, August 20, 2012

Choose Your Attitude

As the first day of school approaches I've been thinking a lot about getting the classroom ready, meeting my new students and getting the school year off to a great start.  Then last week I was talking to my son who just started his new college job. After spending two years as an RA (resident  advisor) this year he accepted a position as a CC (community coordinator).  His job is to help train and oversee the the RAs in his building.  He's finding out it's a whole new mind set.  Now instead of just having to take care of residents, he is responsible for supporting a staff!  "The questions are endless!" he remarked.  But then he shared a bit of wisdom with me that struck me as genius.  He told me that their motto this year is, "Choose Your Attitude".  Any complaints, concerns, questions, first remember to "choose your attitude".  I love this.

So I was trying to decide how I was going to introduce this motto to my new class, when I happened upon one of my old favorite picture books for sale ( only 25 cents!) at the library.  Underwear, by Mary Elise Monsell, was a popular book with my children for many years.  It's the story of two friends, a zebra and an orangutan, that love underwear.  They have so much fun buying, and wearing, outrageous, undies.  Then they meet Bismark Buffalo, who is a gloomy grump.  The zebra and orangutan have a plan to cheer him up, could it involve underwear?  Buffalo is skeptical, but he gives their plan a try......

As I read this book I couldn't help but start laughing.  The story, as well as the hilarious illustrations, are uplifting.  It occurred to me, this book is perfect to introduce "Choose your Attitude" to my class.  Bismark Buffalo has to choose his attitude.  He can either be gloomy and unhappy, or he can join in the fun with zebra and orangutan!  Perfect!

11 comments:

  1. I've never heard of the book, but your reasoning for the introduction of this new motto is wonderful. The book cover shows that it's going to give lots of laughs along with the lesson. Thanks for sharing! (It is available on Amazon!)

    ReplyDelete
  2. We tried at an early age to teach our children that their attitude should not be dictated by someone else; that it was giving someone too much power to be able to destroy your whole day, putting you in a bad mood. And my motto: "Your attitude affects your attitude." You definitely can choose your attitude, and it changes your attitude!!! You are going to have an amazing year! LOVE that book. I must find one for my grandson!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Great idea for the beginning of the year! I want to use this on MY blog tomorrow. I was connecting with your son as I remembered when I became a district coach and started coaching coaches instead of teachers. Whole new mindset. Thanks for sharing!!!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Looks like you've picked a winner that will have the kids laughing along with you and the book. I love the choose your attitude, something we all need to remember.

    ReplyDelete
  5. I'm googling this book...it sounds so clever! Choose your attitude also goes with my new favorite saying, "Wag more, bark less." xo nanc

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. "Wag more, bark less!" That is so cute! I'm going to borrow that if you don't mind :)

      Delete
  6. I too have never heard of the book either, but sounds wonderful. I may have to borrow this idea I love it! Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Too bad we aren't all toddlers and able to show some "attitudinal" underwear!

    ReplyDelete
  8. I love the idea of choosing your attitude...it goes along with please be responsible for the energy you bring to this space.
    I hope you have a great year! Enjoy the story-books are a fun way to connect to a bigger picture.

    ReplyDelete
  9. "Choose your attitude" is a great mantra to have. It's definitely a way to get positive vibes flowing!
    -Stacey

    ReplyDelete