RSS
Home
Communicating Effectively With Children
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
When teachers or other care givers communicate with children, it is imperative to show respect. We demand respect from children but many of us assume that because we are the teachers and they are the students, we don’t have to respect them. We know this is wrong. I recall many a time during a conflict, when a child was attempting to explain something to me. I was so upset that I did not take the time to listen to his or her side of the story. During conflict management, I took on the role of the Technician, rather than the Professional. The technician often takes action and abides by the rules instead of first seeing what has happened, and assessing the situation. The professional assesses the situation and looks for a solution.
A teacher or any care giver should get down to the child’s level and give eye contact. Speak sincerely, but firmly and ask the child or children for ideas on how to solve the conflict. Children love to take part in decision making processes. One thing I do during circle time is allow the children to discuss things. As we sit in a circle, the children raise their hands so that everyone who wants to speak gets a turn. I might introduce a subject for example; how was your weekend? Did you go any place special? Did you stay home and spend time with mommy or daddy? What are you going to wear for Halloween? I believe these discussions show children the teacher is interested in their lives.
Teachers should also sit with the children during lunchtime and snack time. Ask the children at your table what kinds of foods they like and what their favorite holidays are. Keep in mind also that children who come from different cultural backgrounds, might not celebrate the usual holidays, such as Halloween or Christmas. Children enjoy talking about the holidays their families celebrate.
During a stressful time, I will ask the child to look at my nose to make sure they comprehend what is being said. It is also good not to label the child or embarrass him or her when they make a mistake. If they make a spill, for example, help them clean it up and tell them that it’s okay to make a mess. Acknowledging the child as human, who naturally makes mistakes, gives them confidence and the incentive to evolve. (From: A Guidance Approach to the Encouraging Classroom, 4th Edition, 4th Chapter, Guidance: The Bottom Line).
Related Articles:
Comments
In the encouraging classroom, the teacher takes the role as the coach, rather than the boss. Teachers and other adults alike, have a habit of …
I understand the stress associated with households when both parents must work. There’s no getting away from this reality with our ever-changing …
