In regard to the parents having the kids ready to learn, our school system (7th grade) has instituted a new program for teachers. If it weren't real it would be laughable.
5-4-3-2-1 Color Cards
The 5-4-3-2-1 Color Card system allows students to visually indicate when they are feeling positive and ready to work, need a quick break, or need to remove themselves from the classroom. This self-assessment develops the ability to modulate and control feelings in order to function responsibly in a structured setting. It is a positive, visual indicator of a student’s current need.
Here is how it works:
1. The student will have a set of color cards available in all content area classrooms and in support study.
2. When the student enters the room, these cards should be placed on the desk, along with materials needed for class (homework, pencils, notebooks, etc.)
3. The student will flip to the color card that indicates current status.
a. If the card is green this means good to go.
b. If the card is blue this means feeling a bit overwhelmed.
c. If the card is yellow this means need a short break (1-2 minutes).
d. If the card is orange this means feeling very overwhelmed.
e. If the card is red this means need to go to counseling office to regroup.
4. During each class, the cards can be flipped at any time to visually indicate a change in current status.
5. When a yellow card is visible, the student can take a short break to regroup. Using the clock in the classroom, the computer clock, or a timer, either the student or the teacher can time the break.
6. When the card is on yellow, if the student cannot regroup within the 1-2 minute period, gently encourage transitioning to the counseling office.
7. If a red card is visible, student can leave to go to the counseling office immediately.
8. When student returns to the classroom the cards will again be in use to visually indicate the current status to the student.
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