Teachers’ attitude

– Lugina Miranda

Parents of a hyperactive child described their turmoil whenever they met their son’s teachers. It was a list of complaints about their son’s behavior which made them feel embarrassed, angry, helpless etc. They tried all kinds of methods to correct his behavior like beating him, punishing, shouting and also lovingly telling him, but all in vain. They also changed 2-3 schools.
This year when their son’s new teacher called them, they felt anxious thinking about what she would say. But to their surprise the teacher was calm and smiling at their son. As they exchanged greetings, the teacher went on complimenting and praising every positive behavior of the child and never spoke about his negative behavior. Tears were rolling from the parents’ eyes and they were astonished. For the first time they were hearing good remarks about their child. The teacher’s attitude was a great impact on this child. Everybody could observe his change in behavior, i.e., from negative to positive. Everyday this child would bring from this teacher lot of stars, notes of praise and various rewards for improving his behavior. This was encouraging him to behave positively. Not only this, the child started liking this teacher so much that he presented a flower to her every day and sometimes he made cards. He would get ready early to go to school after completing all his work.
His parents were very happy and went to express their gratitude to her.

As we want to teach better behavior to children, we must also be aware of our behavior. It is definitely difficult for teachers to manage a class of about 60-70 students with the pressure of completing the syllabus and other duties while ensuring that students have understood and followed what the teachers want them to learn or behave.

How can one be a better teacher?

It is a must that teachers have to control their emotions. Letting their anger take charge and saying harsh things to children hurts them and leaves the teachers regretted.

1. Anger management: It is best when we as well as the children do not talk when in anger. The best thing to do is perhaps walk out, breathe deeply, drink a glass of water, calm down and then enter the class. It is also recommended to count numbers from one to ten before saying anything.

2. Stress management: It is always better to control your stress level by spending some time to do the activities one enjoys doing apart from routine work.

3. Developing rapport with the child: If one can understand the child better, dealing with the child’s behavior will become easier. Do not force the child to speak to you but if you give a message that you are available the child will definitely come to you when he needs someone to talk to.

4. Having a buddy to discuss the problems: It may be helpful to discuss about the child with colleagues, not with the intention of gossip, but to seek some advice in dealing better with the child.

5. Seeking professional help: One must always remember that serious misbehaviors need professional help which should be sought if necessary.

Tips for teachers: –

* Respect children as individuals and understand their feelings.
* Believe in children and therefore they believe in themselves.
* Encouraging them boosts their confidence without pushing them.
* Appreciate and accept their best efforts.
* Have patience; give them more time to complete their tasks
* Never underestimate their potential; motivate them to develop their talents.
* Make information as concise and precise as possible.
* Maintain a sense of humor: smile and laugh with children.
* Don’t be hard on yourself or your management and colleagues… “A cheerful teacher is always a better teacher”.

The great teachers of all times didn’t just teach others; they influenced them, with their lives as well as their teachings, which still have an impact on individuals and societies. Great teachers do not produce a product; they produce an effect by their devotion, commitment, compassion and diligence.