This week I have been reminded how important it is to really listen to what is being said to you. Children (and adults) know if you are listening to them or if you are just waiting for your turn to say something.
I had one child tell me that he likes his teacher as she listens to him and then “talks straight” (his words). She shows an interest and then tells him what she thinks in an honest way without too many words. He likes this.
Last week, I watched one teacher ask a child a question, the child looked at the teacher but did not answer. The teacher started asking the question again which confused the child. Working with this same child, I realised he needs time to process what is being said to him. Give children time to think about what they have been asked and to formulate their answer – it is ok for there to be silence once a question has been asked.
Teach your children how to be good listeners and model how to do this in everyday life.
Reach Behaviour 