I Love You Rituals

 Over the last few days we have been focusing on "I Love You" Rituals with the boys at the very end of the day. If you are unfamiliar with this practice, I highly encourage you to look into Dr. Becky Bailey's book "I Love You Rituals." These are quick activities designed to "send the message of unconditional acceptance. Unconditional acceptance is love (Bailey, p.3)." 

Through these quick melodic finger play games we are continuing our class mission to seek a deeper connection to one another and make everyone feel the unconditional love. Our classroom is full of a range of abilities and through our use of Conscious Discipline and the I Love You Rituals we are hoping to create a comfortable space that all our children feel loved and accepted. 

Unfortunately, my camera work wasn't great this morning, BUT you can at least get a small glimpse into what this ritual may look like. Beneath the video you can find the preparation and instructions for you to practice at home if you would like! 

This Little Finger

I Love You Rituals by Dr. Becky Bailey (2000)

"This little finger came to school in a car."

Massage the child's little finger as you repeat this line. Give the end of the finger a little squeeze when you say the word "car."

"This other finger rode the bus."

Repeat the activity by massaging the next finger and giving a little squeeze on the word "bus."

"This little finger rode his/her/their bicycle"

Continue massaging and squeezing the middle finger

"And this one chose to walk"

Massage the index finger and squeeze at "walk"

"The thumb lived so-o-o far away."

Massage the thumb, hold it firmly and wiggle it

"It had to go up the hill, and down the hill"

Repeat this line as you trace your finger over each of their fingers ending at the pinky. Drag your finger over to their thumb and hold it firmly.

"To get all the way inside school."

Place your child's thumb into the palm of their hand and wrap the fingers on top so the thumb is tucked into their fist. You can continue the game with the other hand or continue to gently massage hands.