Chapter one- Part Two- Recognizing a Child's Individuality

Every child has a story to tell... Will they tell it to you?

In the previous entry, I discussed the developmental characteristics of children. This can help you to have some reasonable expectations for your students. But, as most experienced teachers know... no two classes are ever the same. Each child brings their own unique set of experiences and characteristics to your classroom.
For children to thrive as successful learners, the classroom must be a place where kids feel comfortable and valued. So, let's look at some factors that may affect a child's self-confidence and response to learning experiences.

**TEMPERAMENT- how a person approaches life. Observing children to learn about their temperament can be very useful in understanding how a child might make friends, solve problems, and learn new skills.

**INTERESTS AND TALENTS- Sometimes these may be obvious, and sometimes not. Knowing about a child's special interests and talents can help you support their growth and self-confidence.

**LEARNING DIFFERENCES- This would be a great time for you to review Howard Gardner's "Multiple Intelligences". You can get a nice review here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theory_of_multiple_intelligences
By providing a variety of experiences, we are more likely to help every child be more confident and comfortable.

**LIFE EXPERIENCES- What children bring to the classroom from their past experiences is going to affect how they relate to peers, adults, materials, and activities. And there is always that one little darling who does not have the best home life. We all have them. Just remember... you can be the caring adult that can help that child deal with stress so that they have the energy to learn.

**RESILIENCY- In future chapters, we will discuss instructional approaches that promote the factors that children need to overcome hardships: insight, independence, relationships, initiative, creativity and humor, and morality.

**SPECIAL NEEDS- It is inevitable that you will have a student with a disability. But, there is no one that is an expert on all disabilities! Just take a little time to learn about the specific special needs of the children in your classroom. Conversations with parents, specialists, and other professionals will provide most of the information to help overcome barriers to learning. Work as a team to overcome problems!

So, what are some positive results that can come from getting to know your students? --more effective classroom management! --higher student motivation and engagement! --less stress for you!

What are some ways you get to know your students? Leave us a comment and share your thoughts!