I am convinced being generous is a better way to interact/teach. Be generous with your time and patience.
Be nice. Compassion helps. Some kids are given the What For all the time. They don't need marching orders. Our students do not need a harsh, judgmental ear. I am convinced they thrive with a sensitive and accepting one.
I am convinced that we should pursue peace in every situation. Albert Einstein said,
"Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding."
We all want to be understood. Don't we? So, try understanding. It will help to build some empathy. A little may go a long way.
I am convinced we need to appreciate the wisdom of others. Sometimes that wisdom comes from the places you'd least expect. Like the time we visited a homeless shelter where a man confided,
"Beauty surrounds me."
Or when a young student volunteered that,"Mental strength is what courage means to me."
I'm for being honest. As in, I don't know. Or, let's try it out and see if it works. Kind of like trying on a new coat to see how it fits.
I am convinced the 'little things' make all the difference. A nod of encouragement. A pat on the back. A high five or a fist bump. A smiling glance.
I am convinced that laughter has the capacity to enhance the clarity of relationship. When was the last time your students heard you laugh out loud with them?
Generosity. Compassion. Peace. Laughter. These are just some of the ingredients essential to developing a rapport built on respect. Take time to engage in meaningful conversation as a way to nurture trust for the student. These are some things for which I am convinced. How about you?
Marty-I LOVE how positive you are! I totally agree with you about the "little things" making all the difference. A smile and simple greeting of "hello" can really turn someones whole day around!
ReplyDeleteI think as educators and counselors we can improve student communication with their peers and adults by giving students an opportunity to actually talk to each other! Morning Meetings are a GREAT way of doing this.
Hi, Allison. I am so glad you took the time to comment! It is so true; the 'little things' have the power to make all the difference.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading and keep doing good things.
YAY, Marty - you are SPOT on! We need to practice with our little ones, give them a chance to sharpen their saw, right? I suggested doing a role play with a 2nd grader right before the holidays and she had NO idea what to do or say. That's why the COACHING model, done right, works so well. Thanks for your poignancy and your honesty!
ReplyDeleteSending smiles from the south,
Barbara