This is undoubtedly one of the most difficult aspects of teaching children with challenging behaviour, and I don't know a single teacher or parent who do not struggle with this from time to time - if not daily!
I recently had a testing day with one of my students. His SNA remarked that she had 'NEVER seen me anything but positive' and upbeat in relation to challenging behaviour. I was taken aback by her surpise, and answered 'I'm only human' I got a hug in return for my honesty!
And as you fall over the chair, slip on the discarded work, and be hit by the rebounding door, it's a natural reaction to feel your unconditional positive reagard slipping away, and frustration setting in.
It's time to stop what you're doing, breathe, and think on the spot about what is happening.
Is the cause of your frustration that you've prepped the work and now it's time wasted? Is the child's behaviour getting the better of you? Whether it's just the day, or that you know they can easily do the task at hand, don't get stressed, try this:
Clear the space, forget the task for now and bring out something fun and physical like water play or playdough - something you know your little student will be happy to play with. Get down on the floor and play for a while. (You will require energy for this!)
Return to the task at another time and don't be hard on yourself. You will quickly return to being a happy, in control tutor who is a very reinforcing and fun person.
Again - have fun!
Claire.
No comments:
Post a Comment