What BD (Behavior Disorder) does NOT mean....

Many children who are labeled with a behavior disorder are never given an explaination as to what this exactly means.  This causes children to worry, and often wonder if something is wrong or abnormal with them.  Every child deserves to be given the opportunity to learn what BD means, as well as what it DOES NOT mean.  I feel like the school system, and the parents of a child with BD, should team up together; they should provide each child with distinct information and resources so that they can clearly understand their individual challenges they are having, as well as ideas and goals for improvement-in a language THEY can understand!  An IEP is likely not something that many children will take interest in; instead, perhaps a behavior survival guide for kids should be provided!
BD does not mean that you are "bad," "crazy," or "retarted."  It is tough for a child with BD because the above can be common labels that they receive.  A child who is deemed "bad" does not mean he or she is a "bad" person.  Children need to know this! Yes, a child may exhibit "bad" behavior sometimes, or make poor choices, but this clearly does not make them "bad."  It is important to convey to children with BD that hey can learn to make better choices and handle their feelings in a more pleasing way.  When a child "acts out" or makes a scene in public, other children may refer to this child as "crazy."  People who are "crazy" have no control over what they do; though it may be a challenge, each child does have control over many behaviors.  A child with BD often means they are placed in special classes.  Some kids believe that everyone placed in special classes is "retarted."  Kids are in special education classes for many different reasons; each individual child warrants a reason why.
Whether a child needs to learn how to make better choices, or just learn in a different way, it is crucial to a child's self esteem that they are greatly included in their special education placement.  Children who are labeled BD surely have many questions and concerns.  It is our duty as professionals to provide this information for them so that each child knows it is okay if you require extra help; no one is perfect!

Love in the Classroom

Love is one of the most fascinating subjects to delve into and study. 

"Where you find no love, put love, and you will find love" - Leo Buscaglia

Buscaglia was a well-known author, teacher, and lecturer; he is often referred to as an expert in love.  Between the years of 1970 and 1981 Leo Buscaglia traveled the world delivering his lectures.  I have to admit, I am intrigued and awakened by his work!  My favorite of his collections, "Living, Loving, & Learning," shares his journey of 'love in the classroom."  He actually created, implemented, and taught a college course he titled, "Love 1a."  In this course he mentions love as a behavior modifier. This is quite an unusual concept; I think it is absolutely fabulous!  I believe that all elementary, middle, and high schools should develop a course on love, while of course teaching "with love".  For years, psychologists and sociologists have told us that love is learned; yet, who teaches us to love?  Those who take care of us, our family, friends, and society can all influence our views on love; however, they are not always the best teachers!  A positive team approach is the only way it's going to happen!

Leo Buscaglia states, "You know, you are not only a teacher, you are a human being.  Children can identify with people, with human beings" and "We are failing in schools of education because we are not helping teachers to shed the role of teachers and become human beings and to realize that they are guides.  To the extent to which they recognize this, so will they be successful in the classroom because a kid can recognize a guide."  I agree completely agree with both quotes.  I believe that our classrooms should of course contain appropriate discipline and structure, but that does not mean we cannot respond with a warm heart.  As human beings, we need that personal touch, that warmth, to grow into a healthy adult.  We need to teach and demonstrate to children the delight in loving!  We must not be afraid to boldly introduce the subject of love into our classrooms.  We must not fear opening ourselves up and showing children that we, too, make mistakes; we all need love to survive.  This is a valiant and valuable subject that allows us to all be united, regardless if yo uhave a learning disability or behavior disorder; it does not matter who you are!

I feel as though it would be beneficial for our school systems to carefully construct and introduce a class that celebrates our uniqueness, embraces our differences, and teaches the art of love.  Love is limitless!  Saint Exupery, a French writer and aviator, gives his definition of love as follows: "A process not of my wanting to make you over in my image as I would desire you but my wanting to lead you back to yourself, to what you are, to your uniqueness, to your original beauty."  This theory on love is a wonderful lesson to be shared with our young people today!