An effective educator makes teaching and learning a joy. The Super Teacher Dozen Don'ts is a reminder for every teacher of the 12 things you should never do in the classroom.

1. Don't yell at kids across the room; you'll embarrass them and increase the frequency of the behavior you are highlighting. Walk over and gently whisper to the child.

2. Don't loose sight of your original mission: to make a difference in the lives of children.

3. Don't hold grudges, even kids need forgiveness; wipe the slate clean often and thoroughly.

4. Don't overlook the small steps kids make; joined together they become joyous journeys.

5. Don't call attention to behaviors; positive or negative. Instead honor character.

6. Don't bring your bad day into the classroom; park it at the door.

7. Don't look at students as "them". See each one as someone's precious bundle of joy that is being loaned to you for the day.

8. Don't deny yourself the joy that laughter brings. Laugh at yourself, your world and with your kids, everyday.

9. Don't forget that you were once a child, full of wonder and curiosity. Look deeply and maybe you will resurrect your inner child and then you will better understand your best teachers; the CHILDREN.

10. Don't praise; it is demeaning, manipulative and creates dependence. Encourage specifically and genuinely thus creating independent learners.

11. Don't envy your neighbors' bulletin boards and decorations. Admire their enthusiasm, insight and empowerment of kids.

12. Don't forget to celebrate the hero in you, that there is life outside the classroom and that by investing in knowing and nurturing yourself you are investing the the future of every student you teach.

While refraining from the above "Don'ts" there is one "Do" the you absolutely much do. Always remember there are no greater heroes in our society than teachers. As a Super Teacher it is your duty to make teaching and learning a joy.

Phyllis Ferguson MEd., inspiring www.Save-the-Teacher.com founder, lives by her motto, "Make Teaching and Learning a Joy".

As an award-winning, seasoned educator, Phyllis enthusiastically shares her "work smart, not hard" techniques for integration and literacy development in the K-6 classroom.

In addition, she is unreservedly applauded as she consults, provides in-service training, and presents live events throughout the United States and Canada. She is also the Director of Oasis School in Richland, WA as well as teaching K-2 multiage.

Phyllis has a comprehensive background in research-based literacy development, curriculum integration and brain-based instruction. Listen to Phyllis' Save-the-Teacher Podcast
http://www.save-the-teacher.com/podcast