Substitute Teacher's Corner: On Your Feet

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

11 Sep 2007 07:08 AM

Good morning! There's a saying in substitute teaching: "A sub on her feet is worth two in her seat." When you go in to substitute teach for a class, it may be daunting to think about spending the next 8 hours on your feet, but trust me - you and your students will appreciate the day so much more.

Sitting Down

The only time you should be sitting is if you've gathered the kids in a circle and you're sitting on the floor with them or if they are taking a test and it will be less distracting from them if you're sitting. However, in many elementary classrooms, the teacher's desk is folded into a corner and it's often got a limited view of the room - this is not where you sit.

The only time I try to take myself back there to sit is when the kids are at specials or at lunch. That means I'm alone in the room and my presence doesn't need to be noticed or felt. During class time, I avoid going back there unless I need something from the desk or I'm talking to one of the students privately.

When you're on your feet, you are more engaging. You are making eye contact. You're aware of the room. You may be moving back and forth, standing up and sitting down. You're going to be talking to the kids, you're going to be playing with the kids, and you may even be correcting the kids.

In Your Seat

When you sit down while teaching, you may be out of sight. You may not be engaging the kids one on one. Chances are your eyes are not on them and instead, you're looking at something on your desk.

You need to remember that this class time is not your time - it belongs to the students so get on your feet and be there for them.

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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