Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work: use symbols in play to represent and make meaning. begin to make connections between, and see patterns in, their feelings, ideas, words and actions, and those of others. …
It has been said that one picture is worth a thousand words. And every time we talk, "our non-verbal clues are giving a clear picture of what we’re really thinking." Infants and toddlers (children under the age of 3) may…
What we say to people and children and how we say it can have a tremendous effect on behavior! One thing should be clear that our interactions could have a positive or negative “tone” to children. Most of us would…
Many interesting observations have been made about classroom behavior and sometimes seeing that you the teacher and your behavior often contribute to a climate that could foster and create discipline problems through certain types of management procedures. Here are some…
The first few days are the most important ones of the year. Help children to formulate two or three rules for the classroom. If the children help, it's easier for them to own the rules. Be sure that you're consistent…
Help children tell their stories. Protective as we may be, children will all experience at least mildly traumatic events. Mean teachers who ridiculed them, like scary moments when they got lost in the supermarket; instances that incited fear, anger or sadness will…
Author and humorist Erma Bombeck once wrote, "When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they're finished, I climb out." As parents and teachers, we all have moments when we would like to hide…
Webster’s Dictionary: Self-Esteem is a realistic respect for or favorable impression of oneself; self-respect or exaggeratedly favorable impression of oneself. It is a feeling of pride in oneself. Charles, 4 years old had built-up self-doubt in himself because he felt…
Communicating badly can lose the attention to what children have to say and others. You need to stop and be a better listener. Communicating badly by not having the time for children. You must show children they have your…
Difference is not the same as being difficult but you would do well to look at your own behavior and consider which side of the line it sits when thinking about handling a relationship you find problematic. Is the object…