Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Teach Juggling If I Do Not Know How to Juggle? 

• Select an instructional DVD or online resource that explains the best methods for introducing juggling skills.
• Remind students that learning how to juggling is a process and that it takes practice. We each learn at a different pace.
• Show some exciting juggling presentations to your students and motivate them to learn something new.
• Remember, you do not need to be a juggler to be able to teach the students how to juggle!

How Can I Begin to Work With My Students?

• You can start with your own classroom and see what works best for you.
• You can find a colleague who may also be interested. Begin with some community building and ice-breaker activities so children can get to know their buddy and get accustomed to working with the other class.
• Access and become familiar with your SEL Standards. Set up goals and objectives for your students. These can become more specific in the future.

What Do We Use to Juggle?

• As you use juggling in the classroom more and more, you can add juggling balls to the fall school supply list.
• You may request a one-time purchase from your building Parent Teacher Organization or principal.
• Parents can send in a contribution and you can purchase items online.
• Students can practice at home with scarves, socks, toys and even fruit.

What Kind of a Schedule Can I Follow?

• Be creative and do what works best for your busy schedule. We practiced in our classrooms with the whole group for five to ten-minute blocks 3 to 5 times a week. Once a week, we met with our buddy classroom for a longer block of 20 to 30 minutes.

Anything Else I May Need to Remember?

• Set clear expectations for good behavior. Discuss safety, respect and responsibility.
• Encourage good manners and positive communication techniques.
• Set practice session goals and wrap up with a few moments for group reflection and sharing of what worked and what did not work.
• Allow students to model what they have learned.
• Give it a try yourself!

McCusker/Gattis/Sassone