Articles written utilizing the textbook, bolded key words followed by reasons why a reader ought to read them are cliché. They are cliché because they are over-used, and over-used because they are tried and true. Here is yet another of those articles, specific to the field of caretaking and one-on-one tutoring. The article will list four main points to consider when working with a child.
Respect- This should be a given, but oftentimes it is much easier said than done. We can all say we respect children, but when a child yells at you, or spits, or hits, or comes at you with a pair of scissors, that respect we claim to embody goes right out the nearest window. The trick is to actually respect the person you are working with. Try not to view him/her as your employer’s child, but as a friend, an equal with whom you are learning, not simply teaching or talking towards. Use different language even in your own thoughts, which can help you to move towards a more respectful relationship.
Friendship- The sooner the barriers between teacher/student and/or caretaker/child are blurred, the better. If a child sees you, an older person, taking actual interest in their interests, rather than constantly suggesting your own, a natural sort of mutual respect will develop much quicker, making for an incredibly smoother ‘work’ environment.
Understanding- Understand the child you are working with. This sounds very basic, but it is incredibly important. Recognize that while every child is unique and special, every child also comes with their own particular forms of baggage, as shaped by each of their own experiences. A child whose parents are still together will react differently to situations than a child from a single parent home, and different still than an adopted child. Economic status, number of siblings, age range; there are numerous elements at play for every individual. Doing your best to develop a specific, non-judgmental understanding of the child you are working with will do wonders for your time spent with them.
Play- Lastly, play with your new friend! There are countless physical and cognitive benefits to play. “Kids pay more attention to academic tasks when they are given frequent, brief opportunities for free play,” says Gwen Dewar, Ph.d. http://www.parentingscience.com/benefits-of-play.html. The key word here is ‘free.’ Let the child decide how they would like to spend their free play time. You can certainly make suggestions if the child is unsure, but allow them the option to establish the rules and methods of the play. If it is nice out, go outside and play sports, or feed the ducks, or turn over stones and see what is under them. Build forts out of couch cushions and make up your own ghost stories. Build robots out of paper towel rolls and construction paper. However it is that you agree to play, do it together, respectfully, and with gusto!
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