Humor in the Classroom

“ People with a sense of humor tend to be less egocentric and more realistic in their view of the world and more humble in moments of success and less in times of travail.”

-Bob Newhart

In the classroom, a sense of humor can help you become successful as an educator. With a sense of humor, you can relieve tense situations in the classroom.  The class can also be more enjoyable for the students, and have them look forward to attending class. In teachers, humor and humility seem to go hand in hand. They're like a counterbalance for self-confidence, something that keeps their feet on the ground and their egos in check.

A sense of humor is an important part of coping with setbacks and adversity. If we’re blessed with a humorous outlook we’re better able to see the ridiculous side of whatever it is we are upset about, making it easier to avoid being swamped by distress.

Kids with a well-developed sense of humor are happier and more optimistic, have higher self-esteem, and can handle differences well. Kids who can appreciate and share humor are better liked by their peers and more able to handle the adversities of childhood — from moving to a new town, to teasing, to torment by playground bullies. It’s our job as teachers/adults to mold them into having this attribute.

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