Cuteness

I just read an article by Angela Watson about the "culture of cute."  I have to say that the content is something I've thought of, but not articulated.  Cute is not necessary to instruction...or is it?  It really depends on a teacher's personality and what they need in order to function well.  Is there a problem with those of us who focus on "cute stuff" and the the look and organization of our classrooms?  Evidently so!  Some people think (comments in her post) that those who love to decorate and organize their classrooms couldn't possibly focus enough on instruction.  Ok, well maybe I"m being a little negative.  The author didn't really take a side; she just posed the question with points on both sides.  Of course there are some people who don't enjoy all of the stuff on Pinterest and see it as frivolous and even as added pressure to have the classroom look a certain way.  Some schools put that pressure on their staff.  I would hate that.  I contend that those of us who love all of the cute stuff love it because it makes us happy to work in a decorated classroom.  We do it for the kids and we like it for ourselves!  In no way does the decorating of my classroom interfere with my level of instruction.  I make most of my organizational decisions in the summer.  Included in that time is planning new centers/activities and shopping for things I don't have time to look for during the school year.  Decorative inspiration happens in the summer for me.  During the school year, I'm focused on instruction and the kids I'm trying to help.  I am honing in on their individual needs and searching for the perfect lessons for them.  I don't know them yet in the summer!  That's is when I feel free to have fun getting ready for the year.  And I DO have fun with it!  Wow, it almost sounds like I'm making excuses for enjoying cute stuff and decorating my room.  I guess my point is that everyone should do what makes them happy in their own space. If simple is what you love, then "yea!"  If decorating is your thing, then no one should question your teaching ability based on that!  Pinterest on...decorate your hearts out all of you AWESOME teachers!!

Cute/Organized...what could be wrong with that?!

I can find what I need...the kids can find what they need...it looks nice...I'm happy.