Bucket Fillers and Superman

My big bro recently sent me a couple links that he knew would intrigue the teacher in me.  He was definitely right.  The first one is How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids.  I saw a couple teachers use parts of this in their classroom last year, as well as, "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?, and I really love the idea.  There is an adult version of How Full is Your Bucket?, which is all about how we invest in, build up, or deplete one another daily.  It is written by the authors who also wrote "Strengths Finder," an awesome book that helps teach you how to identify and build on your strengths in life, rather than focus on overcompensating for your weaknesses.  "How Full is Your Bucket for Kids" is meant to teach children how to daily build others up or, as they put it, be a "bucket filler."  It is a super cute concept, and a great value for kids to learn.  Both books do a great job at really emphasizing what a difference our words can make in the lives of others.  This is something I would love to do in a fun way with our kids some day.  Here are a couple cute ways it has been used in classrooms:

Mrs. Saccoccio's Class Blog:

Beth Newingham's Class Website:

The second link my brother sent me is the trailer for an upcoming documentary, and it will definitely make you think, and perhaps respond.  It's a documentary sharing the often tragic details of the education system in America, called "Waiting for Superman." I am definitely curious to see the entire film, although the clip is already heartbreaking in a lot of ways.  With the heart and occupation of a teacher, it is so difficult for me to graspt how crazy and difficult it is for so many children to get a chance at a great education.  You should definitely check it out.  Thanks for the great info. Darin!