Early Learning with Welcome & Warmth
The academic session is almost halfway through. The first term
exams are scheduled, papers are being set, practice worksheets are
being given out, revisions are being done.
What comes to your mind when you read these? Almost everyone would
have the visuals of panicking students and stressed parents.
However, this is the story of the school principals and educators
across the globe.
A lot goes into the smooth functioning of a school. It is
limited to finalising not just the curriculum, but also the books,
the co-curricular activities, the functions, the inter-school
competitions and the list goes on. Add to that the interactions
with parents and you have nothing less than chaos, specifically so
in the lower pre-primary grades. The kids are young, innocent,
unaware, not used to this environment and more.
So as academicians and educators, how do you cope? Here are some
tips.
1. Welcoming
Make the first day at school memorable for children. Make it
welcoming. Have a small celebration of sorts as the tiny tots enter
the school building or the classroom. Fill the classroom with
colourful graffiti, stuffed animals, toys, picture books and
everything else you need to make a positive first impression.
2. Warm
Most kindergartners have never been away from their parents. The fact
that they will have to sit with other children in a room without their
parents is terrifying for them. They get anxious and emotional. Some
even suffer from anxiety and separation issues. Hence, it is essential
to reassure them. Let parents sit with the child in the class for a
day or two, then just outside the class for a day and then slowly
phase it out. Of course, some kids might still throw tantrums. In that
case, explain to the child tenderly that their parent is sitting in
the lobby of the school and will come when called. Do this gently and
with love.
3. Encouraging
Preschoolers are in the process of developing their motor skills. They
are hyper and are bundles of energy. Do not suppress them; let them be
free. Avoid a structured seating arrangement. Initially, let them have
the freedom to sit or lie down wherever they please. Put up some blank
drawing sheets or blackboard stickers around the room and let them
draw at will. Let them express themselves. This freedom will win them
over, and they will willingly go to school.
4. Friendly
According to 3- and 4-year-olds, a school is full of authoritarian
teachers and a formidable principal. Remove that notion. Let the child
see teachers and the principal as wonderfully welcoming and warm
people. Let there be regular lively interactions between the students,
the class teachers, and the principal. At school, children should
always feel safe and welcomed.
These were some simple yet effective ways to make school a delightful,
exciting place for children. Happy educating!
