BEST PRACTICE FOR NAVIGATING TRANSITIONS
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“ Thanks for staying behind to help me put these posters up on our bulletin board . You have always been such a helpful member of our classroom community ! Hey , I was thinking about our recess goal of staying in your seat ... I noticed the fidget helped for the first day or two , but now it ’ s been flying out of your hand toward the ceiling and that ‘ s pretty distracting . Why do you think it worked at first ? Should we try switching up our tools , or should we try an activity instead ?”
Celebrate
Look for examples , however minor , of the student ’ s progress toward changing the behavior and positively reinforce the efforts . We can always find some measure of compliance ; it ’ s our egos that often get in the way !
“ I noticed you were able to hold the fidget a little longer yesterday without tossing it . I know this is hard for you , and I want you to know I saw your effort .”
“ Having an accurate understanding of why a student ’ s behavior might become confusing or challenging in response to seemingly simple transitions is of immense benefit to educators , as it reminds the adult to support the child to attain new skills as their brain develops ...”
Transitions are undoubtedly tricky in the adult-child relationship . They are ubiquitous , yet unexpected ; natural , yet potentially activating . Having an accurate understanding of why a student ’ s behavior might become confusing or challenging in response to seemingly simple transitions is of immense benefit to educators , as it reminds the adult to support the child to attain new skills as their brain develops and enhances relationship outcomes . •
Natalie James , a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in children and adolescents , has a private practice in Bend , Oregon . Over the years , her expertise in anxious disorders evolved into large-scale trainings for parents , educators , and staff working with youth . An educator with over 15 years of teaching experience , Natalie is a professional speaker who brings real life stories from the classroom and pediatric medical settings to highlight practical responses to even the most challenging behaviors . She is an adjunct professor of Infant , Child , and Adolescent Development courses at Oregon State University , Cascades .
Page 10 Fall 2022 CSEE Connections