Butterflies in my stomach

I don't know about you but every time I step in front of a large group of adults to speak I get nervous. Give me a group of a thousand kids and, I'd keep them busy all day with never a fear entering my brain. There is just something about the opinions of adults that sets my nerves on edge.

If you are like me, then you may not enjoy those random moments at the beginning of Open House where students are showing their parents the classroom. You may feel as if each parent is checking to see what you're made of. While I haven't conquered the entire fear of speaking at Open House, I have found the perfect start. The parents love it and it helps to settle my nerves just a bit.What do I do? I create a digital story for the parents to watch as they come in.

First things first, I take about 60 pictures in the weeks leading up to Open House. I have pictures of everything from students walking into the room, lining up, and doing activities throughout the day. Then, I've found that  PhotoStory 3 (a free digital storytelling software) is the perfect software to use for this project. Simply upload the pictures to the program, add captions and voice overs if desired then add music that fits the pictures you have taken. Tada! You are finished! I simply show the "story" on repeat as parents walk in. They are so excited to see their children in action that they forget all about me until I need to present. This makes me a very happy camper. And, I've found it's an excellent way for parents to see what a "day in the life of their child" is like without all the work.