OH, Behave! Volume 13, Issue 1

…”bite size” Early Summer 2019 n e w s f r o m y o u r The Magic of the Greeter Apron R e g i o n 1 0 B e h a v i o r The way we are greeted in the each child an individual ings are endless (see a list of S p e c i a l i s t morning makes a huge differ- even when drop-off gets busy. ideas on page 2), one doesn’t ence in how we begin our day By donning the apron with the need many materials to create an and, essentially, sets the tone choices displayed, the act of apron. A hardware store “tool” for the entire day. Combining welcoming and acknowledging a apron and fabric paints or mark- choice and visuals, the greeter child seems most sincere. ers is all that is required. Aprons apron ensures every child will can also be purchased at craft receive a greeting as they enter Being a “greeter” can be a job stores. Pockets can be useful in the classroom. Whether a child for a child in the class to per- the apron, but are not absolutely Positive teacher- chooses to get a bear hug, a form also. A child-size apron necessary. If the drawing and/or student , or hello, these can be used to display a variety painting on an apron is of a con- relationships promote help build and main- of greeting choices. However, if cern, laminating greeting icons is a sense of school tain relationships. An individual the desire is to establish a posi- an alternate idea. As a plus to belonging, greeting says, “I am glad you are tive teacher/child relationship, it using laminated choices, Velcro encourage here!” and “It is good to see is essential the teacher be part can be placed on the back of the students to you today!” The eye contact, of this special exchange. pictures so that the icons can be physical touch, and individual changed over time (Tip: Use participate attention help teachers get to Consistency is key to using the sandpaper to create a small, cooperatively and know a child in a more personal greeter apron most effectively. rough place on the laminated reduce the way. This is vital in establishing Wearing it daily shows you picture before applying the Vel- likelihood of problem a secure, nurturing relationship. value the one-on-one time cro to ensure lasting adhesive- behaviors! spent with each child. Regard- ness!) Greeting choices can also be less of the activities planned for posted on a board displayed the day (special school trips or Once you get in the habit of near the door or on the door visitors), the greeting time using the morning greeter apron, itself; however, when the should never be neglected. consider adding a goodbye greet- teacher wears the apron, it is a er apron or ritual to your day wonderful reminder to give While the possibilities of greet- too!

Child Care Resource Center (Formerly Work Family Resource Center) Lead Agency for Region 10 "Enriching Child Care, Engaging Families, Enhancing Communities" North Carolina Healthy Social Behaviors Team sporting www.childcareresourcecenter.org their own greeter aprons! Greeter Apron Examples & Ideas Page 2

Greeting Ideas: Order your own personalized greeting High 5 Finger Wiggles Thumbs Up Elbow Bump apron on ETSY Bear Hug Robot Dance Wave Blow A Smile Fish Kiss Handshake Eskimo Kiss  Wink Dance Three to five choices are ideal. Be sure to include some non-touch choices.

Questions or Comments?

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RoseColoredCrafts (336) 245-4900 Ext. 1010 Renae Lingafelt-Beeker [email protected] Follow us on twitter @OhBehaveTips Do you have a question you would like to see answered in our monthly column? Check out Tucker’s NC Nest on Feel free to email your question to [email protected]. Pinterest! You can remain anonymous if you prefer, but please put your question to the (Just click ☺) attention of “Ask The Behavior Specialist”.