Self-management is one of the five social-emotional learning competencies students must develop to lead happy, fulfilling lives. At the heart of this competency is effective time management. When one manages time effectively, one is more productive and is better positioned to achieve personal goals.
In this lesson, the class listens to a story about Eddie, a young boy who learned the importance of managing his time the hard way. Eddie habitually forgets important appointments and leaves things until the last minute. Additionally, he cannot stand waiting, which often lands him in trouble.
Eddie's mother recognizes that it is high time for him to take responsibility for his actions, and she entrusts him with managing his time. Eddie is thrilled about this opportunity because, for him, this means he can do whatever he wants whenever he wants without getting into trouble. However, he soon realizes that his actions and decisions have consequences.
"Time is a valuable resource that one can either put to good use or waste. Students who learn the importance of time management are better equipped to achieve their goals and succeed."
On one occasion, he stays late at his friend's house, knowing full well that it is time for dinner. When he finally reaches home, he discovers that his family has already gone out for dinner without him. His stomach grumbles all night, and he vows to do better the next day. This experience teaches him that being on time is crucial, so although his birthday is months away, he already knows what he wants as a gift — a watch.
Eddie’s story is one that many students can relate to. The teacher uses it as a starting point for a discussion about time management. The class talks about how it can be challenging to manage one's time, but there are positive actions one can take to help with this. Planning ahead, deciding what is important, not putting things off, and doing unpleasant tasks first are all positive actions for managing time.
To conclude the lesson, the class sings along to a song titled "Important Things First," which emphasizes the importance of time management. It encourages students to balance work and play and maximize their time.
Time is a valuable resource that one can either put to good use or waste. Students who learn the importance of time management are better equipped to achieve their goals and succeed. With the right mindset and tools, they can become independent, self-managing adults.
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