Fish! Philosophy Basics
The FISH! Philosophy is based on four essential practices:
Be There
Be emotionally present for people. It’s a powerful message of respect that
strengthens relationships.
• Be fully present.
• Listen to understand, not just to reply.
• Take action to meet people’s needs, based on awareness.
Make Someone’s Day
Find special ways to connect with everyone you encounter, for no other reason
than to serve them in a meaningful way.
• Be selfless.
• Be of service.
• Be authentic.
Choose Your Attitude
Be responsible for consciously choosing how you want to show up in the world,
no matter the situation.
• Be aware of your impact. Is it the one you want?
• Consciously choose your response to what life throws in your
path. Live in alignment with who you say you want to be.
Play
Tap into your natural way of being creative and having fun. Play allows
curiosity and enthusiasm to flow in childlike wonder without being childish.
• Build trust. Without it, people don’t feel safe.
• Create a physical and emotional environment conducive to Play.
• Encourage freedom to try new approaches.
• Be curious-about everything.
These ideas are the basis of The FISH! Philosophy.
When our classrooms are based on strong, caring relationships,
students feel connected; they are much more likely to care about themselves
and the community of which they know they are a part.