In this episode, we move beyond first impressions to truly celebrate the unique identities each student brings to your classroom. We dive into Day 2: Identity & Belonging, exploring the "Culture Hand Activity" as a powerful visual handshake that helps every student feel seen, valued, and essential to the richness of your classroom community.

• For Unpacking Student Identity:

• Understand the "Culture Hand Activity" as a unique "visual handshake" to introduce student uniqueness.

• Learn how to guide students to represent five aspects of their identity (heritage, hobbies, talents, values, etc.) through drawing or writing on their hand outline.

• Discover how this activity moves beyond surface-level introductions to invite deeper self-reflection.

• For Fostering Connection & Growth:

• Recognize why seeing and sharing uniqueness reveals individual strengths and areas for growth.

• Explore strategies for facilitating small group sharing and whole-class reflection on the "Culture Hands."

• Learn how to guide discussions that highlight the "richness of identities and experiences" in your classroom, emphasizing the value each unique background brings.

• For Extending the Impact:

• Gain insight into several additional ways to use the "Culture Hand Activity" throughout the year (e.g., "My Learning Hand," "Our Class Hand," "Future Self Hand") to continue building community and exploring identity.

• The "First 10 Days: Building a Welcoming and Respectful Classroom of Belonging" Resource Bundle: Your comprehensive guide with 10 days of intentional lesson plans and activities.

• FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan & Materials: Get a taste of the full bundle! Includes the "I Am..." template, "Norms of Engagement" chart, and the "Self, Peers, World" exit ticket.

• The "Culture Hand Activity" Worksheet: A printable outline of a hand for students to use.

• 🎧 Listen now and empower your students to celebrate their unique selves!

• Download your FREE Day 1 Lesson Plan here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree

• Explore the full "First 10 Days" Resource Bundle here: customteachingsolutions.com/btsbundle

• How will I introduce the "Culture Hand Activity" to ensure all students feel comfortable sharing their unique identities?

• What specific examples of "identity aspects" can I provide to inspire diverse student responses?

• How can I facilitate the sharing and reflection process to truly emphasize the richness of identities in my classroom?

• Which of the "Culture Hand" extension activities might I try later in the year to continue building community?

• Email: [email protected]

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• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iteachcustom/

• Website: https://customteachingsolutions.com

Don't miss out on making this school year your most belonging-centered one yet!

Seeking joy, celebrating diversity, affirming culture, centering equity, and striving for liberation through learning every single day.