A first grade student came to class very withdrawn 4 weeks ago. The classroom teacher advised me the student was having a bad day. He had already been to see the behavior specialist. When I spoke to the student he didn’t acknowledge me or my words. His demeanor was sad, defensive and grumpy. After the class was well on their way with their project I knelt next to the student and asked him if he was having a rough day…nothing; asked if he wanted to make some art…nothing. I told him sometimes I chew gum to get me in a happy mood to make art. I asked if he would like a piece of gum. Finally! Finally he looked at me. Very slowly a slight smile came across his face. I invited him over to my desk. I explained that the gum was only for this class. He was not to make a big deal about it and was to spit it out at the end of class. It wasn’t a minute later that I noticed he was smiling, talking to classmates AND making art…enthusiastically making art! He had a GREAT time in art and socializing with peers. Without me asking, he threw the gum away at the end of class.
It has been a month since the above happened. I have not had one difficult moment with this student since that day. I make a point of saying a special hello to him, acknowledge his presence by rubbing his back for a few seconds and always comment on what a great job he is doing.
This little act of kindness and acknowledgement totally changed the dynamics of this class and my relationship with this student.
It has been a month since the above happened. I have not had one difficult moment with this student since that day. I make a point of saying a special hello to him, acknowledge his presence by rubbing his back for a few seconds and always comment on what a great job he is doing.
This little act of kindness and acknowledgement totally changed the dynamics of this class and my relationship with this student.
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