Hi Bucky. I'm 18 and I just got a new job as a pre school teacher. I'm really excited but a little terrified too. Any advice? (I love your blog btw)
1. stay calm. children can sense fear.
2. wear comfortable shoes. if everything goes wrong you may have to run for your life. you may also have to do that if everything goes right.
3. remember that children arent ready for real knives, guns, & explosives until about 8, so even if they seem competent, dont arm them
4. confidence and consistency are key; omnipotence is not. it is okay to say you dont know something. it is not okay to act erratically. they are still learning how to anticipate behavior and may strike if startled
5. use sweets and naptimes judiciously. coincidentally, this is also a good technique for dealing with geniuses and supersoldiers