Unexpected Learning

Today was the first day of a Arts In Learning Training I was signed up for. I was asked by my principal if I would participate in it and I agreed. I wasn't expecting to get much out of the training and was actually thinking of the thousands of things I could be doing during my Summer Break instead of sitting in an all day training for one week. The only plus to this training is that it is stipened. Meaning I get paid! I couldn't complain about that aspect! This morning during my morning conversation with the Lord, I prayed that He would teach me something that I could use. Of course, he went above and beyond!
Our first session was with a local drummer, Ken Anoff, and I'm not talking about a rock band drummer. This gentleman was playing Doumbek drums along with three others. I felt like I was walking into an African Trible Dance. The best part is we got to play along with him. We spent the better part of the hour just beating on the drums, tamborines and other percussion instruments. I cannot think of a better way to start the training.
We followed the drumming up with a terrific lunch at Chik-fil-a with my co-workers. The hour was spent getting to know each other (some are new teachers to WJES) and discussing classrooms, family, and iPhone Apps. After lunch we were split up into our afternoon track sessions. Mine was Drama K-3- Engage, Support and Motivate Students: Drama in the Classroom. I have to say I was very leary doing a drama class but actually learned quite a bit. It reminded me of Power Teaching by Chris Biffle (Teachers: Google "Power Teaching") in how teaching kids through acting, drama, movement (basically kinesthetics) helps them retain the knowledge.
So not only did I learn something today, but I was able to beat out a couple great rhythms, laugh with coworkers and overall have a great time. Looking forward to see what tomorrow holds.

As for what the kids did today: Luckily daddy was home today and was able to take them out and about. They met Grandma and Grandpa T and Cousin Caleb for lunch to celebrate a belated Father's Day. They went to eat at Metro Diner on Hendricks Avenue. Daddy said Abby was being an instigator with Cousin Caleb. She can be a bit of a trouble maker! It's amazing to see the mind and thinking of a two year old!!