People who learn the art of improv can manage just about any situation they face.  The art of Improv taught in the classroom provides teachers and children with a tangible way to discuss topics, solve problems, and heal relationships.  I use Improv in a multitude of ways.  Here are a few examples:
1. A teacher came to me with a student who was having difficulty getting along with his partners while working on a project.  He and I discussed how using the Fundamentals of Improv to help his group succeed and do well on the project.  
2. When having a discussion about famous inventors, we talked about how listening helps keep the conversation moving forward so people do not repeat the same things over and over again. 
3.  A student turned in her writing assignment and had not finished all the elements of the rubric.  I found one area where she did well and said, "This part of your story shows an example of creative thinking, you really tapped in to your imagination." This demonstrates a "YES" to her work.  Then I quickly follow up by saying, "And, I wonder if you have an analogy to give your readers a visual picture of what you imagine in this scene."
These are just a few examples.  Once you get in the habit of using improv, you will use it multiple times each day.  I made this poster to help my students have a reminder about how to use this tool.  I hope you will find it useful too.  
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I wonder if anyone can explain the relationship between fractals and cell phones. There is a connection, and it is fascinating! What interests me is the fact that fractals have been in the world since the beginning of time; however, cell phones are relatively new.

When I was a child, living in Tehran, Iran, our family had a concrete swimming pool.  Each year, we emptied the pool and put a fresh coat of paint on the surface.  The first few weeks after we filled it with fresh water, it was icy cold. After experimentation, I concluded that the most efficient and least painful way to get into the pool was to dive in rather than go in bit by bit.  Now, as an adult, I approach almost every new challenge with the same strategy.  In an ever changing world, we encounter new experiences all the time.  If we hesitate, and just go bit by bit, we will be left behind.  So go ahead; jump and dive in, and experience the challenge. ​

​We all have antagonistic recollections from the past.  We cannot return to the moments, but our memories take us to the thoughts and feelings that remain in the aftermath. Some uncertainties, fears, and struggles we may want to leave behind. They make us cringe and wish we could go back and make a better decision. However, the triumphs, joys, and accomplishments become our best friends.  These lifelong companions make us confident and secure.

In the movie, Tomorrowland, Casey asks, "There are two wolves who are always fighting. One is darkness and despair. The other is light and hope. The question is: which wolf wins?" Nate answers, "The one you feed."  All of us have those memories that distress us, we must conquer the thoughts that would make us believe we cannot repair the damage.  We may have the scars to remind us of the pain, but we also have the reminder of the healing that takes place when we refuse to pick at the wound. 

Our memories carry us forward. The mistakes make us cautious... mindful. The triumphs give us hope and resilience. We need these two companions because they honestly ensure our hope for future contentment.  

In this TEDxCOMO, Zach Beattie gives valuable advice about decisions, creativity, and mistakes.

Rules:
1. Everyone is a genius and creative
2. Say, "Yes, and..."
3. Play
4. Let yourself fail 

What if students and teachers went to school each day knowing that blunders and triumphs would not be publicly displayed on a behavior management board? What if teachers talked to children quietly about their mistakes and worked with them to help them succeed? What if children knew that they are allowed to play because playing helps them learn.  Can you imagine this type of school?