I am a teacher - well going to be a teacher.  I am currently finishing 12 weeks of student teaching in the second grade.  As a teacher in the primary grades we often find ourselves “front loading” the kiddos.  This means that before we send them out to recess we remind them of the behavior that is expected of them out on the playground.  All they need is the reminder and the cleanup I have to do as a teacher after recess is greatly reduced.  Compare that to expecting them to remember how to behave on the playground in which case I spend twice the time dealing with the hurt feelings, bumps, and bruises many children have after recess.  The students are less likely to hit or push each other because I have placed the information, respect one another and be responsible, at the front of the brain.  A teacher also needs watch how the information is put at the front of the brain.  For example when a student hears, “No running.”  The only thing they hear is RUN, so of course that doesn’t work very well. 

Front loading can be beneficial for all ages.  I always tell the girls that I help to prepare for the pageant as much as possible beforehand so once you get there you don’t have to worry about studying.  Well, that’s true to a point.  Be prepared of course, but if possible, front load before your interview and other areas of competition.  Just like taking a test in high school, look over your notes before the test!  When competing, I would always find a corner where I could think by myself and look over my notes quickly.  The information will put you in the right frame of mind and allow you to feel freshly prepared.  Other contestants will understand if you need to gather your thoughts before your interview.  Front loading will help you during all areas of the pageant.  Relax and have fun, just reserve a few minutes right before you go on to front load!!  :)

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