Teacher's Pet

I knew that I couldn't be a teacher of little children in any professional capacity when I spent a summer as a tennis instructor for little children.  The little rascals would rarely learn anything, and they were more excited about the bugs on the court than what I was saying.  So, I admire Mollie for choosing such a noble field.  I admit, I'm a tad worried that it may be a lot of stress for her.  Tonight confirmed my fears.  The following are quotes from a book for teachers, called "Discipline with Dignity" (these are methods for teachers to control their frustration and stress):

• Take a pillow and place it in front of you.  Imagine that the pillow is really the "out-of-control" student.  Now tell this student what you resent (Sammy, I resent ______).  See if your body wants to say or do anything to Sammy.  If you'd like to crack Sammy over the skull, then let him have it!
• As a way of releasing tension, take a towel and let the towel represent the student.  Twist the towel (student) until it is taut, and keep twisting.  Notice how your jaw and face become even more tense as you do this.  Now take the twisted towel (student) and bite down, giving the towel all the tension that this student usually gives you.
• Picture a difficult student saying or doing something that usually bugs you.  Keep looking at the student but begin to hear circus music in the background.  Listen to the circus music right through the end.
• Sometimes it helps to blend improbable scenarios to laugh.  For example, picture your spouse serving dinner while walking on his or her hands.

Well, you get the point.  I hope Mollie keeps the stress level down without turning into a nut job.