This week while working with my fourth graders there was just something in the air. By this i mean they were so frigidity, had no desire to participate, said ridiculous things, got in fights, and refused to do their homework.
Have you ever experienced your child simply having an off day? What are some things you did to handle it? This week I learned that sometimes you simply cannot do anything, except be patient, take them aside and not let them think it is okay to act in this manner. Children test our waters, and definitely love testing authority. Raising and working with children is not an easy task. Unlike other jobs that have basic routines. This job, whether you are a stay at home mom, or caregiver- is not basic nor does your routines always go as planned. Your child(ren) will have their days, you will have your off days too, they will get sick, they will not want to do the activity or lesson you have planned, and or something else will come up. The key in any of these situations is communication.
We cannot help them, if they do not express to us what is wrong, or why they don't want to participate. And you can simply say that, " Express to me what you are feeling, so I can help you." Many children will take this as you genuinely care for their feelings and opinion and your not just powering over them. You will find trust and a genuine relationship grow as you communicate and listen. Then once you have done that make an executive decision that benefits both parties. This will have a positive impact on your relationship with the children, but also a positive effect on the classroom. Make sure though that they are not manipulating you or over powering your authority. At the end of the day you must be loving, respectful and do what is best for them, even when they don't think it is.
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