Teaching Strategy

 Every child is a unique and interesting individual.

I have only been teaching primary school for four months and I'm still hurdling on how to tap each child's unique characteristics.  I have succeeded with most of my pupils but there are still a few who I find hard to communicate with.  Even though some of my pupils only speak a certain dialect, I don't consider language difference as a hindrance to communicating with children.  I have had my share of ups and downs - mostly ups, thank goodness.  let me share some tips on how to handle primary school children and their parents / guardians.

1. Never be too friendly on your first day of class.  My professor in college taught me this.  A teacher should be cordial but she must put as strict face upon meeting her pupils and their parents for the first time.  That way, your clients will not be too chummy on you which may lead to disrespect in the future.
2. Know your client's background.  Of course, one cannot do this on the first day of class, not even on the first week!  But I suggest that a teacher should talk to her pupils often even when they're having a break.  Byt getting to know their family background, you will have an idea on your pupil's behavior.
3. Get mad but never lift a finger.  This has become the biggest challenge for me because I tend to scream when I'm frustrated.  When you're angry, act like one but do not overdo it.  When you're angry inside the classroom, you shouldn't be anymore when class ends.  Nothing should be taken personally and it is a must that as a teacher, you should explain to your pupils why you're angry.
4. Be tolerant. Don't be too idealistic because in reality, kids crawl under the table and most of the time on the table itself.  Let them play, let them scream. As long as there's no blood you shouldn't worry.  It would be fun if you join them in their play.
5. Show them who's the boss.  I often hear my pupils say "Ma'am I'm tired" or "Ma'am I don't know how to write that word" whenever I ask my pupils to copy what I have written on the board.  What I do is I tell them that they should take down notes if they still want to go home. It works all the time for me because it scares the hell out of them.  Who would want to spend the rest of the day inside the classroom?  And if by chance a pupil still wouldn't write, let him stay for 15 minutes longer and that should serve like a detention for him.
6. Always give praises. Children thrive in a climate of love, so give your pupil plenty of praise, warmth, and physical signs of affection. Children need pats, smiles, and approval. A teacher should never run out of ways on how to say "Very Good".  Give praise even for a teeny weenie accomplishment of your pupil. It boosts their self confidence.

That's all for now! Happy teaching!