I was reminded today as I drove a student home about something we often forget. This child reminded me that every student has a story. We get so caught up with teaching that we forget listening is just as important.
As I brought this student home, I listened to his story. He told about his summer. I asked him about how the school year has gone so far. I started the conversation very slowly. He started to warm up and tell me about his family life. He told me about his cat. He also told me about his mom and something she is struggling with.
When everything slowed down, I sat down to reflect about the day and wondered something. Would I have found this important information out if I would not have brought him home? I wonder if any of my staff would find out this information about him.
As a new school year begins, it is important to get to know our students. We need to know how many brothers and sisters they have. Do they live with their grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles? What do they struggle with? What are their strengths? weaknesses? What are their hobbies? What is their favorite subject? What is their least favorite subject? How do they learn the best? Or they visual learners? auditory? etc.
How can we help our students if we do not know anything about them? It is about relationships. I enjoyed the 20 minutes in the car with the student. It put things in perspective for me.
We need to know what makes them tick.
I thank my lucky stars that the mom did not pick up. I would have missed out on this opportunity to get to know this kid. Take advantage of teaching moments.
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