The Power of FUN

By Brenda Gaston

I’m learning so much about the power of fun from the Power of Fun book. 

Jenn asked us to think about a word for “the One-Word” challenge in January. It was great timing because I’m still settling into my new full-time role as the ELL instructional coach for Warren Township. I chose FUN!

While I have many instructional strategies and best practices to teach others, I don’t always have a chance to make a long-lasting impression in just a few minutes! Our PDF team has planned and offered three different all-staff PD days. We have taken advantage of this time to really get to know each other better and build a strong team. My focus as a presenter has shifted—it is more about incorporating “connection before content” activities rather than trying to cover too much information. 

Using sets of children’s building blocks and a fast-paced game called “Quick Cups” to create opportunities for playfulness, connectivity, and flow helps develop a memorable bond and illustrate key program priorities: plan your work with an agenda (procedures) and plan longer units that allow students to share their short—and long-term career goals. 

Now, when I discuss a concept like developing a 6-week project, I can remind colleagues that we are building OUT (cups placed horizontally) persistence and attaining the HSE/ career training & building UP- (cups vertically) daily confidence, language, and basic skills. Using the concept of “true fun” has been an effective tool for successful interactions at work and in my own personal reflections.

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