I currently have a two year old learning to use the potty and a five year old learning to read. I've discovered that there are many similarities to teaching the two skills.
1. There is no magic age. I used to think that there was an age at which a child should do something. Ha!
2. I can't do it for them. I wish I could, it would be so much easier.
3. If they really want to learn something, they will. The converse is also true, if they don't want to learn something they will fight you the entire time!
4. Bribery works.
5. So does patient consistency.
6. #5 is the hardest thing to do, especially when you are tired.
7. Children will eventually learn both, especially if you can accomplish #5.
8. It's ok to take a break.
9. Slow deep breaths help to focus on the bigger picture. Deep breaths can be taken by the student and the teacher, doing it together can be very helpful.
10. When in doubt, feed someone chocolate.
There are probably many other things I will teach my children that apply here, but I am having trouble seeing beyond the diapers and letters. Hopefully I can remember this list for my next teaching challenge.
Love this, and know the experience! I'd just alter #4 to read: "SOME children" ;-)
ReplyDeleteYou just have to find what to bribe them with... Each one of mine has needed a different bribe. If you are lucky it's something easy like chocolate.
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