First time sub

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First time sub
By L.P.

Congratulations on finishing! I'll list some things I found useful.
1. The first and best advice I can give you is don't let them see you are scared, even if you are. Develop your best "teacher look", you will need
it.
2. Develop a discipline system like Harry Wong's. They get one warning, then take action.
3. Use it. If the teacher doesn't have a system in place, or has one and doesn't use it, (Don't laugh. The worst classroom I ever subbed in was like this) use yours.
4. Carry easy lessons, worksheets, puzzles, color pages etc. in case the teacher has left you not enough or nothing.

Copy them off before class so you have something ready. Learn some games the kids like and use those for extra time. (I carry flash cards for Around the World and a nerf ball for Silent Ball)

5. Make a seating chart when you get there so that you know names. I've never been left one. Or have them make stand up name tags. Elementary kids like doing this anyway. Even fifth graders.

6. Introduce yourself to neighboring teachers. Ask if you can send problem students to them. Out of their own element, they often behave
better.

7. Dress professionally. I see other subs in jeans but I would never do it unless I was subbing in PE. It does make a difference in how people treat you.

I know it's hard going into strange schools but it gets easier. I did the same thing just a few months ago. It gets easier as you go. Now, I think nothing of it. Take a deep breath, act confident. You'll do fine. Good luck! :o}