When I was a substitute teacher at the Sherburne-Earlville Elementary School, I heard all the common arguments often associated with kids just being kids. I heard all the complaints, everything from “Johnny took my pencil,” and “she keeps touching me,” to the less expected “you’re doing things wrong. That’s not how Mrs. Smith does it.” Really? How many ways are there to change the date on the blackboard, kid?

I also saw that nothing – be it a toy, book, marker, empty swing, a place on the rug during reading time, etc. – was ever so badly wanted by a child as when someone else had it first, or worse, if I threatened to take it away simply because they’re not cooperating or following classroom rules.