Bringing the Fun Back!

giftEd Blog Challenge 2018 #4- How do you bring joy to your learning environments?

This Blog prompt reminded me of our TOD back in Term 1 where we were introduced to the FISH philosophy. Basically, a documentary film maker John Christensen was in a fish market 'World Famous Pike Place Fish' in Seattle and he was amazed at how the Fishmongers had such enthusiasm, energy and engagement with the customers. There were large crowds and people were laughing, smiling and totally enjoying their experience.

After coming back to film the fishmongers they identified four main attributes that these workers had to be successful and happy in their workplace.  Below are their 'Four Practices.'

The Four Practices of The FISH! Philosophy

Be There

Be emotionally present for people. 

Play

Tap into your natural way of being creative, enthusiastic and having fun. 

Make Their Day

Find simple ways to serve or delight people in a meaningful, memorable way. 

Choose Your Attitude

Take responsibility for how you respond to what life throws at you. 

                    Source Credit- https://www.fishphilosophy.com/fish-philosophy-story/

Although this is within a business environment these four areas can work equally well within a school. As a staff we have incorporated these attributes into our school during the year.

( Some of us may have been doing some or all of these things anyway :) From Hauora Bingo, gifting flowers and fruit from the garden, "You've Been Mugged"- gifting something to someone for a surprise, really trying to listen or having a joke with another teacher. These are just some of the ways we have spread Joy within the staff. Of course we try to bring joy to our students as well. Often as teachers we put ourselves last so our Principal decided that we should use the FISH Philosophy, adapted as needed to bring more joy to our working lives. I think having an active approach to finding fun and joy is a great place to start!

Nga Mihi,

Bex