Shhh...don't talk so much
Learning to think critically and communicate takes time and lots of practice. When working with kids, we have to give them time and space to think and talk out loud.
"If you would only listen, you might just realize what you're missing" Bubble Toes by Jack Johnson
Stop talking so much: Ok, let me explain...I was reading an article about small steps teachers can take to increase student engagement. The small step was to let students do far more talking than the teacher does. Learning to think critically and communicate takes time and lots of practice. When working with kids, we have to give them time and space to think and talk out loud.
But that's so difficult!
Yes, especially if you're like me and love to talk. Here were a few tips to let kids talk more:
- Let them talk first
- When you do speak model how to explain your thinking. Speak in complete sentences and explain your thought process (I used to think this...but now I know...)
- Ask questions instead of giving directions or explaining the answer: What's the first step? How does your teacher do that? Do you see any clues?
- Encourage them to elaborate. Show them that you want to hear more than a "yes" or "no" answer: How did that feel? What does it look like? Does it remind you of anything?
- For more tips check out my video How do I get my kids to talk to me?
I'll be posting some examples of this on my instagram this week.
Some Announcements:
- I've created my first e-mail course! This course answers the number 1 question I get: What kind of school should I choose for my child? I compiled the answer from several experts to explain 6 different school styles. You'll learn about Homeschooling, Montessori, private schools, and more! I'll release the course next week, respond to this email to get on the waiting list.
- I will be streamlining this newsletter to focus on education news and tips for this newsletter. Thank you for sticking with me as I explored various topics and layouts. Each week I will focus on an education news story or education tip. Then I'll share some announcements and things to check out. I'm always looking for feedback and ideas, just respond to this email.
- I'm on TikTok now. I did it - yay. @PrimaryFocus Follow me
Check this out:
- Chestnut spread: My friend brought me home this incredible chestnut spread from France. It's a paste you spread on bread with the most delicious vanilla cinnamon taste. I'm addicted!
- Archetypes Podcast: I have been binge listening to Meghan Markle's podcast on Spotify . She explores archetypes placed on women (diva, good wife/mother, ambitious) with incredible interviews. If you identify as a woman I think you'll be inspired. If you've got women you love, I think you'll be enlightened.
- Keenan Anderson: You may have heard of English Teacher, Keenan Anderson's , passing at the hands of LAPD after a car accident. Here is the GoFundMe started to support his son's education. ✊Black Lives Matter
Have a great week,
Natalie