One of the more challenging things on a teacher’s plate these days is to convince difficult and challenging children that they are capable and responsible. Their attitudes typically are “I can’t do it!” “I don’t know how!” or “You can’t make me!” This prevents them from taking the first steps from the learning opportunities you present to them.

I have used an attitude umbrella to motivate students from the very first time they walk into a classroom by reminding them of the attitude chosen for the day to help them keep positive attitudes throughout the day.

We live in a world of “worst result thinking “so by having the attitude umbrella right by the front door it triggers the correct attitudes when kids begin their learning adventures. On one side of the umbrella is a picture of a child making excuses. On the other side is a picture of a child finding a way. The picture of the wrong attitude has a diagonal red line drawn through the picture of the child making excuses. Every child has to select one positive attitude for each day. They stand underneath the umbrella until they select one and tell the teacher what it is. (It’s like a ticket to enter the classroom.)

The attitude mobiles can be purchased from our bookstore on line at www.ethicsusa.com . Or you can send a check for $20 plus $5 shipping to:

People-Wise Publications

P.O. Box 80208

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688

– Gene Bedley