Classroom guidance is an issue that every teacher at some point struggles with. We try every trick in the book — be the “good” cop, be the “bad” cop, ignore the behavior, bribe, threaten to get parents, lock ourselves in the bathroom until the session is over, and so on and so on. And some of these may actually work — for a minute or two. Could it be that we’re going about it all wrong?
Are we focusing on a surface solution when we really need to be working from the inside out? To see a genuine change in a child’s behavior, in anyone’s behavior, there has to be a change of heart. Our first order of business as teachers is to help kids see their need for Christ. As you teach — and depending on what age child you teach — realize that many of them have not come to that saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. To be honest, that’s a whole other blog post! So, while you’re working on leading them to that heart change, what else can you do?
In addition to a change of heart in a child, there must be a change of heart in the teacher. A child can begin to understand Christ’s love for him and he sees that love through you. Here are a few helpful tips from A to Z:
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Always model Christ’s love for children.
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Be an example.
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Consistency is key.
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Do not expect too much.
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Explain activities before giving out resources.
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Find out what’s going on in a child’s world.
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Give choices when possible.
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Hold children accountable for their actions.
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Involve men in your ministry.
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Judge what is misbehavior and what are simply childhood characteristics.
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Know the child’s likes, dislikes, hobbies, and interests.
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Love each child.
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Meet the needs of the children.
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Notice a child’s “good” behavior.
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Observe what a child’s home life is like.
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Pray, pray, pray!
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Quickly deal with any unsafe situation.
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Respect the feelings of children.
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State your expectations.
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Take the initiative to participate in activities with the kids.
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Use additional adults when dealing with unique situations.
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aVoid calling down every negative action.
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Work with at least two adults in every session.
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X marks the spot – be prepared and on time!
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Yelling accomplishes nothing.
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Be Zealous for kids!
Klista Storts serves as the Childhood Ministry Specialist. She is married to Gary and the mother of Brett and Blake… oh yea, and Mimi to her grand-daughter, Mia! Klista is passionate about laying foundations for conversion in the lives of preschoolers. Klista loves to ask the hard questions, so look out for her!
