Domain VII: Communication
1:10-1:40 p.m.

Elaboration:
Today I had to keep several children from recess in order to finish assignments. One of the children did not finish his assignment because he was really struggling with it. So, I told him that next time he needs to at least try, but if he needs help he can ask me. I can even help him right now if he wants. He was very upset about doing homework, so I had to explain to him why he needed to finish homework, even though he didn’t like it. Another child who was missing recess was arguing with me. I had to talk with him several times and explain to him what the procedure was and how he broke it. He still argued with me giving me many excuses.

Analysis:
I have realized that especially when children are punished, it is essential that a teacher clearly communicate why. Many times, it seems as if the children do not really understand why they are doing something specific. My communication changes from child to child, depending upon their understanding things. One of the children who simply wasn’t doing things because he didn’t like them, is very seldom made to do anything that he doesn’t like. Although I am not his parent, I took this opportunity to communicate to him that sometimes we have to do things we don’t like. I told him that I don’t like to have to keep children out of recess. I like to have fun too. However, sometimes we have to choose our attitude even when things are not what we want. While I’m not sure that he got this, I realized that I have a great opportunity to teach children about values and character when I am in this role. He told me at that moment, “Ok, I will choose to be happy even though I don’t like it and try my best. “ Then a few seconds later he said, “But Miss Yoder, why do I still feel so sad?” While his next words were a bit humorous, I still hope he caught at least a little of the lesson.