Children learn best when they feel a strong emotional connection to the adults in their lives. Our teachers are dedicated to forming these bonds, ensuring that each student feels known, loved, and supported as they embark on their unique learning journeys. By understanding the needs, interests, and learning styles of their students, TGS educators foster a nurturing and supportive environment where every child can thrive.
We recently surveyed our teachers to uncover their favorite ways of bonding and connecting with children. These intentional engagement strategies enhance learning and help build lasting relationships that contribute to each child’s emotional and social development.
Understanding Each Child as an Individual
The first step in providing exceptional early childhood education is getting to know each individual child. Every child is special, with specific talents and traits. Understanding each child’s personality, skills, and learning style allows our teachers to tailor their interactions and teaching methods to best support and engage every student.
“I connect with students by slowing down and taking time to interact with each child one-on-one. For shyer children, I tend to be more reserved in my approach and how I talk with them. I always try to find a way to make them smile. For more interactive students, I will match their energy level and bring that into how I make them laugh or smile.” – Rebekah Littrell
“It takes a while to get to know each child, but once you do, it’s easier to modify how they respond to learning. Some of my students love to learn through song or play in a group, while others prefer a little more one-on-one time.” – Brenda Tafoya Ayala
“Each child is different and learns differently. If I see a child is having a hard time with something, I take time to figure out why, while always addressing them with patience and care.” – Laura Zavala
Engaging Through Interests and Guided Activities
Both free play and guided play are part of our preschool curriculum. Our teachers understand that incorporating students’ interests into lessons and classroom activities is a powerful way to keep children engaged throughout their learning journey.
“I like to sit back and watch what my students bring with them in the morning, along with what they talk about throughout the day. When I create my lesson plans, I try to input what they will like into the subject they’ll be learning.” – Erin N. Cosner
“I love getting to know each child and building on their interests each day! Whether they are shy or outgoing, full of energy, or not feeling like being part of a group, each child feels loved, accepted, and cared about if their favorite book, puzzle, or activity is available. For example, the super energized child who likes to “fly” like Spiderman most days will have an easier time sitting during Circle Time if he has a Spiderman book.” – Debora Benz
Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment
At TGS, safety and security are woven into every aspect of our learning environment. Feeling safe and valued is essential to every child’s development. When children feel secure, they learn even more readily.
“Having a clean and welcoming environment is a great place to start. Children must feel safe and comfortable to fully explore their environment!” – Charlotte Staton
“I work to build students up by celebrating every victory, big and small. We talk about feelings, have discussions about everyone’s interests, and let everyone share about themselves every week. Each child should be represented in the classroom, so we hang up family pictures, pictures of themselves, and their school work.” – Margaret Kiel
“I work hard to create an environment that is safe, welcoming, and open so children can explore and make mistakes, which is a great way to learn!” – Caitlin Fry
“I make sure that I take time each day to spend one-on-one time with every child in my care, playing, snuggling, and talking with them to create and maintain a strong, loving bond.” – Sarah Papin
Personalizing Learning Experiences
Tailoring teaching methods to fit each child’s learning style and pace is key to helping children feel supported, confident, and willing to tackle challenging tasks.
“For teaching a new skill, I’ll demonstrate without words. I understand it can be hard to listen and watch what I’m doing. Most children only need to be shown how to do it. Some need step-by-step directions, others need me to guide their hands through the process, and some students prefer to figure it out on their own. It’s interesting to see how they each process differently when learning!” – Michayla R. Ashley
“I like to give my little friends options for different activities so that they can feel comfortable with trying harder skills. For example, I might give options of writing letters by themselves, tracing letters I write, or having me use a finger to guide their writing utensil.” – Kathleen Corpron
“I try to meet each child at their learning level. I have sight word worksheets, but I have different levels of words for the children. I also have different types of activities for all the interests of children in my classroom.” – Penny L. Coon
Experience The Gardner School Difference
Whether through personalized attention, engaging activities, or creating a welcoming classroom environment, TGS teachers are committed to supporting the growth and success of every student. This dedication to forming meaningful connections is what makes The Gardner School a special place for early childhood education. Schedule a tour to learn more about our approach or enroll your child today.