Developing mutually respectful and affectionate relationships with children
- Share the article “Building Positive Relationships with Young Children” with the teachers. Together, explore the concept of “making deposits.” Ask each teacher to identify one child in their group with whom they want to create a better relationship. Over the next week, ask teachers to consciously apply strategies from the article and to keep a journal of their attempts and the results. Have teachers bring their journal to the next meeting to share out with the group. (PCF, p. 82)
- Use a tally sheet to track teachers’ contacts with each child during free choice time. Include individual contact and support with tasks. Afterwards, asks teachers to predict your findings before you share your observations. Together, discuss the results and strategize if needed. (Prekindergarten Learning & Development Guidelines, p. 90)
- Model for teachers how to convey enthusiasm for each child’s efforts and interest in their ideas. Role-play to practice how to engage in extended conversations about topics a child introduces. (PCF, p. 82)