8 children. One teacher. 8 stories to hear at once. One pair of ears to listen. 16 busy feet eager to move and explore and 1 teacher with a lesson plan. Sometimes that lesson plan is challenged and stretched with an excited and distracted bunch of learners..
Laughing, giggling. Wiggling and whispering. Talking and conspiring. Hiding and sneaking away. What's a teacher to do? As much fun as we have in class, sometimes children have an agenda all their own and the challenge to bring back the attention is on.
A secret that I learned several years ago has worked for me as a mother and as a teacher, and it's the complete opposite of what so many instinctively go to.
Getting louder escalates the noise and commotion. Becoming quieter brings a more peaceful and attentive focus to class.
Using a quieter, more breathy toned voice makes those around you feel more relaxed. Speaking more quietly draws those around you to listen more attentively, instead of competing with you with more noise. And looking directly into the eyes of those you are trying to get attention from is a magical force that says, "I see you, and your attention matters to me".
Parents, teachers, and leaders set the tone for those they are setting to direct and inspire. If you want a peaceful and attentive child/following, start with setting the right atmosphere with a calm and quiet demeanor yourself.
