Month: February 2023

Anxiety and fear are very common among children who are about to start their academic journey. Until preschool, children are comfortable in the company of their parents or guardians. When they enter Preschool, they are introduced to a whole new world of unknown faces and new friends, all of which can be very overwhelming for any child. Preschool teachers are equipped with the right kind of skills and knowledge to help children overcome their fear. Let’s understand the techniques they use to help Preschool learners break their shells of fear and be comfortable in their new setting. 

Understanding the impact of fear on children

Fear can have long-lasting effects on children, which could impact them in different ways even as they grow up. Preschool teachers keep updating themselves on the biological effects and signs of anxiety like a racing heart, breathlessness, excessive sweating etc. By understanding the nitty-gritty of fear and how it impacts cognitive factors, preschool teachers are well-equipped with the necessary tools and techniques that can help children feel more secure and confident in school. 

Backtracking to the origin of fear

There are different triggers and sources of fear. Some of these can be the immediate setting, others can be related to their personal experiences at home or outside school. Preschool teachers take a personalized approach towards understanding each child’s mindset for analysing triggers that lead to anxiety among children. Once they are clear about the triggers, they work backwards to tackle the issue at the source with coping mechanisms and counselling with parents. 

Making children aware of their emotions

Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in helping children deal with unexpected situations and circumstances in life. It makes them aware of their innermost emotions and fears and helps them identify ways to overcome the same. Rather than distracting children when they are anxious, it is important to make them feel at ease so that they can open up and discuss freely what they are actually feeling. 

Making learning fun

Preschool teachers take an effort to make learning a fun experience for children. They engage children in a variety of fun-filled activities and games which not only help them learn new concepts but also keep them excited and happy. By doing so, children naturally start developing a love for learning, which ultimately makes them more eager to go to school. 

Creating a nurturing environment

To deal with anxiety and fear, children should be encouraged to try new things. They should be given the freedom to explore their creative mind. Sticking to a textbook method will only limit their real potential. They should be encouraged to ask questions and find answers on their own so that they keep learning without the fear of making mistakes. Teachers should never ridicule any child because of their actions, rather they should give them logical explanations so that they can evaluate what is wrong and what is right on their own. This instills confidence and a sense of responsibility among children. 

Preschool teachers also introduce relaxation techniques that help children calm their minds. They are constantly in touch with parents to make them aware of how their children are faring at school. The best preschools, like Foundree, invest time and effort in understanding the impact of fear in toddlers and ways to deal with them using effective methodologies.

 

Every interaction that you have with your child is a form of communication. It is not only verbal communication but also non-verbal   communication that conveys messages to your child. The way you communicate teaches your child how to express themselves, shapes their emotional development and is a foundation for building relationships.

Verbal communication includes the words you say, pitch and tone of voice and dialect. Non-verbal communication includes eye contact, facial expressions, hand gestures and physical touch like a hug.

Let us look at a few ways to effectively communicate with your child.

Active listening –

Actively listening helps the child feel heard and understood.When your child is
talking put aside everything and be completely present with them. Encouraging smiles and
affirming nods show that you are engaged with what your child is saying. Looking at them at eye
level helps your child feel safer and connected with you. Asking questions in the middle of the
conversation also shows that you are listening intently to what is being said.

Speaking clearly –

Use language that is easy and age appropriate for your child. Be simple, clear
and specific. Do not use unkind words or derogatory language. Always set your intent on what you
want to convey to your child before speaking. Using positive language helps set an example for
your child. This ensures that the child feels respected and loved.

Explain feelings –

This is very important for your child to develop emotional intelligence. When your child is expressing his/her feelings, listen to what they have to say with empathy and without
judgement. Put yourself in their shoes and try to see their viewpoint. Help them to express their
feelings in words such as happy, relaxed, proud, sad, hungry, angry, embarrassed etc. This helps
to understand their emotions and feelings distinctively.

Leading by example –

This is very important as parents are a child's introduction to the world.

What your child sees you do is as important as what they hear you say. Only make a promise to
your child that you are sure you can keep. This helps to build and maintain trust between you and
your child. Children also observe how parents behave with others and this sets an example for
their social interactions in future.

Focus on behaviour –

If you’re upset about the behaviour of your child, make sure that your
criticism and comments is directed towards that behaviour and not towards the child. For example
instead of, “ I don't like that you are messy” can be reframed into, “ I don't like when you leave your toys all over the floor”. This will ensure that the child corrects that behaviour without feeling resistant or bitter.

Having fun together –

Talk with your child about the days activities, different topics such as TV
programmes, videos, games, books and toys. Involve them in day to day activities and also ask
them their views and thoughts regarding different subjects. This way children will learn easily by
taking in information through daily interactions and experiences around them.
Go ahead and build strong communication skills in your child in a joyful manner.