Simple solutions to help ease the beginning of the year nerves
“Challenging” is a mild word to use when describing the first weeks of going back to school. While there are pupils who might be excited by the prospect of once again attending class, many students may feel anxious about going back to the classroom. Certainly, parents and guardians have a responsibility to support their kids so that the start of classes won’t be a nerve-wracking experience. However, teachers also have a role in easing their students’ jitters, especially since they may be on the receiving end of their anxiety. With that in mind, this article provides tips on how educators can help their students shake off their back to school blues.
Get your students involved in decorating the classroom
If you have the freedom to decorate your classroom, it might be a good idea to get your pupils involved in the process. Not only will this help you connect with them, it will also help them make them feel comfortable in the classroom. Edutopia suggests providing them snacks as an incentive to help with the job of giving their classroom a new look.
Use students’ names from the first day
NEA Today advises teachers to use their students’ names from the first day of classes. This will help create a sense of familiarity, which will make your students more comfortable. It is suggested that letting students write their names on 5 x 7 note cards using a marker, so they will be the ones to introduce themselves to you and to their peers. For younger kids who are yet to learn how to write, you can prepare their name cards for them.
Be positive and enthusiastic when teaching
In an interview with Tootsa, James Ross, a primary school teacher, advised fellow educators to be positive and enthusiastic at all times, because children will mirror your actions. This is applicable especially for those who teach reading, writing, and maths. By demonstrating to children that you are enthusiastic about the task, you can encourage your pupils to look at the experience positively as well.
Of course, being positive does not mean that you have to buddy up to them. ThoughtCo. suggests that the first few days should be used as the time for the teacher to establish his/her role as an authority figure, or else he/she may end up not getting the respect from their students. Make sure to maintain the careful balance of being a classroom disciplinarian and being approachable enough to encourage your students to come to you in case of any problems they encounter.
Prepare an information pack for parents
One reason students tend to be nervous about returning to the classroom is because their parents are anxious, too. Help ease their minds about having their kids in school by preparing an information pack containing details about what their children can expect from their classes. This is particularly helpful for parents with young children, especially those who are letting their kids attend school for the first time.