We're having a baby too!

During a break at a recent training, my husband, Doug, was assisting a group of teachers by taking photographs and answering questions. Sharing in the excitement of an expectant mother in the group, he proudly announced, “We're having a baby too!”

Eyes darted, searching for the mother-to-be, looking at me and then back at him, followed by a knowing nod that we meant that our extended family is having a baby: twins, to be exact.

Even though Doug and I have been through the baby stage three times ourselves, it was years ago, so I am finding myself thinking, and overthinking, about what to do with a baby. We are reading books on babies and reflecting about babies. Research has shifted some things a bit. For example, we used to place our babies on their stomachs and sides when they were sleeping, but now they are supposed to sleep on their backs. Many things are the same. Babies need sleep, so the special rocking technique that my dad used with me, and taught me to use with our firstborn, will feel like second nature when we use it with our new arrival.  

The beginning of a new school year reminds me of getting ready for a new baby. It is a lot of work. We get our rooms ready and anticipate the arrival of our students. We read professional books, reflect on our teaching, consider what worked well, and adjust things that didn't.

The first time we set eyes on our new arrivals, we feel a mix of apprehension and excitement.  As we are getting to know each other, we build a sense of community with techniques we know will work.

• We practice the 10 Steps to Independence.  
• We build stamina slowly.
• We focus on establishing a positive relationship with every student in the room. 

No matter what grade we teach, or which child we are preparing to welcome, we need to start with what we know works, fine-tune what has worked before, research, reflect, try new techniques, and delight in a good night's sleep.