The number one thing that will ensure a smooth school year is not your classroom decorations. It’s not the curriculum or your new comfy teacher shoes.
It’s the relationship you’re going to build with your students.
Kids crave authenticity. They know if you’re happy to have them in your class.
But the question is: How do you build and foster this relationship?
It’s the relationship you’re going to build with your students.
Kids crave authenticity. They know if you’re happy to have them in your class.
But the question is: How do you build and foster this relationship?
- Look them in the eyes when you speak to them and call them by name (even on the first day!): I used to study pictures of my students so I knew exactly who they were when they entered my classroom for the first time.
- Greet your students at the door: Let them know you’re glad they’ve come to school each morning. Ask questions to see how their morning went (did they oversleep, did they eat breakfast, did they fight with their parents on the ride to school – all of these things will affect their attitude and ability to learn in class)
- Learn about their families: It’s important to know about the people who are important to your students. Learn their sibling’s names and ask about them. Make mental notes when kids talk about their parents and engage with them about these details.
- Talk about their interests: I know you’re probably not interested in the latest game or fad – but your students are. Make an effort to learn about these (a quick google or youtube search will do!) and maybe incorporate them into the learning. Kids are instantly more engaged when they can relate the concepts to something they’re interested in.
- Attend their activities: It means the world to students when their teachers show up for things outside of the school day. Try to attend a few soccer games, ballet recitals, church choir concerts, etc. If you can’t attend, write your students a quick note the day of the event to let them know you’re thinking of them!
Make these simple habits a part of your daily routine and you’ll find that you school year goes much more smoothly.
Remember: “People may not remember exactly what you did, or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel” –Carl W. Buehner
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