Happy New Year to all of you! How did you celebrate the New Year? My husband and I had planned to host a party but that plan quickly fell apart and thankfully so. We weren’t in the mood to do anything big, and our kids fell asleep early. So, I ended up getting dressed in my finest cotton pyjamas and watched a movie right in the comfort of my own home. Nothing beats that feeling. Besides, isn’t that how you roll when you’re a parent of young ones?
Speaking of the New Year, I can’t believe we’re halfway through January already. Our weather this year has felt more like springtime than winter, but today is a completely different story — It’s actually starting to feel like the winters we’re used to in Canada. This awful dip in temperature had me thinking about all of the New Year’s resolutions that were made, and I wondered how long we typically follow through with them when the going gets tough. January is a great month to start fresh and focus on accomplishing goals over a new year, but to stick to our resolutions requires commitment and patience as you set out to achieve what you’re looking for, whether it’s losing a few pounds, taking on a new challenge, or simply spending more time with family.
The 21 Day Rule (or not)
I once read that doing something for 21 days makes it habit-forming. But, I was also told by someone who works at a fitness centre that the typical ‘New Year’ rush starts to die down and get back to normal by the third week of January. I wonder why that is? Hmmm… Other popular resolutions that are often made and broken include weight loss goals, quitting smoking, being more patient, and eating better.
Did You Do It, Too?
Did you make a resolution this year? If so, what is it? Why did you decide on that particular thing? Are you part of the statistic or have you managed to stick to what you promised to do this year? What a great conversation to involve your ESL learners in!
Check in with Your Students
Although we are indeed in the middle of the month, and you may well have already discussed this topic in class, it isn’t too late to talk about each other’s resolutions and whether or not they’re still going strong or they’ve fizzled away. Have them discuss with you and with each other what their hopes and dreams are for this year by having them start on the right foot with the help of this complete and fun lesson plan from www.eslholidaylessons.com. Like any lesson plan out there, this one can easily be tailored to fit your classroom and complement any ESL level. Not only will you learn more about your ESL learners, but they will also learn from each other. Maybe by sharing we can all get that extra support we need to follow through and accomplish our goals for this year!
How do you stick to your goals, and how do you help your students stick to theirs?
Happy reading, friends!
Resource:
http://www.eslholidaylessons.com/01/new_years_day.html
Laila Al-Sbeinati @lailasbeinati
Hi! I’m Laila and I’m a mom to two little ones who keep me very busy throughout the day (and night)! I earned a double major in Philosophy and Psychology from Western University, which basically means I can talk a lot and analyze anything! I earned my TESL accreditation and have taught in both school and workplace settings; but I especially enjoy teaching at different work places. I have a passion for cooking, baking vegan desserts, and DIY projects. I enjoy reading and learning about new things, but mostly, I’m excited to be sharing my thoughts and any information I may learn about with all of you. Happy reading!