This document provides a list of common everyday items and how each can serve as a reminder for teachers. Toothpicks, rubber bands, band aids, pencils, erasers, chewing gum, mints, candy kisses, and tea bags each symbolize an important lesson like showing kindness, being flexible, helping students with problems, encouraging accomplishments, accepting mistakes, persevering with tasks, feeling valued, giving affection, and taking time to relax. The goal is to help teachers maintain a positive attitude and caring approach in their interactions with students.

1. A TEACHER'S SURVIVAL KIT FOR EVERYDAY LIVING

2. TOOTHPICK -reminds us to look for the good qualities in our students. You may be the only teacher who says something positive to them that day.

3. RUBBER BAND -reminds the teacher that they have to be flexible. Things don't always go the way we plan, but flexibility will help to work it out.

4. BAND AID -reminds the teacher that sometimes we do more than teach. We help heal hurt feelings, broken dreams, and lend an ear to a problem.

5. PENCIL -reminds us not only to be thankful and list our blessings daily, but also encourage our students to list their blessings and be proud of their accomplishments.

6. ERASER -reminds us to allow students to know we are human and make mistakes just like they do, and it's OK. We must all be able to learn from our mistakes.

7. CHEWING GUM -reminds us to stick with it and encourage our students to do the same. Even the most seemingly impossible task or assignment can be accomplished by sticking to it.

8. MINT -reminds us and our students we are worth a mint. (We may not be paid a mint, but are worth one.)

9. CANDY KISS -reminds us that everyone needs a hug, kiss, or warm fuzzy everyday.

10. TEA BAG -reminds us we need time to relax, go over our blessings, and take time for others.

11. A great teacher shows their students how much they care!