Understanding and Addressing Child Behavior: A Guide for Parents, Teachers, and Students
By Dr. Ruksana Hassan | Assoc. Prof. Vineetha Rai | NV Paulose
In today’s complex educational environment, understanding child behavior is crucial for fostering a supportive and effective learning atmosphere. The delicate dynamics between parents, teachers, and students require a nuanced approach to recognize and address issues that children face. Key strategies are required to be identified and learned for observing and managing child behavior. The learning should be emphasizing clearly on the importance of non-verbal cues and a structured method for intervention.
Holy Spirit High School, Mukka, Mangalore
Observing Non-Verbal Cues
Non-verbal cues, especially hand movements, can provide significant insights into a child’s emotional state. Often, children may not express their discomfort or distress verbally, but their hands can reveal much about their feelings. For example, a child who fidgets or repeatedly touches their face or objects might be experiencing anxiety or unease.
For Parents and Teachers:
Pay attention to your child’s or student’s hand movements when they are speaking or during quiet activities. If a child seems uncomfortable, avoid pressuring them to talk. Instead, observe and offer gentle, non-intrusive support.
For Students:
Understand that adults may look at your hands to see how you are feeling. This is a way for them to help you without making you feel pressured.
The Bench, Desk, and Table Approach
Managing child behavior can be visualized through three levels: bench, desk, and table. Each level represents a step in understanding and addressing a child’s needs.
Bench Level:
Mapping: This involves observing and understanding the child’s current behavior and emotional state. For instance, noticing if a child is more withdrawn or agitated than usual.
Desk Level:
Tapping: This step includes addressing the identified issues by gently intervening. It could be as simple as a reassuring touch on the shoulder or asking if the child needs help.
Table Level:
Capping: Managing and resolving the issues by providing consistent support and monitoring progress. This might involve creating a supportive learning plan or regular check-ins.
For Parents and Teachers:
Use the mapping, tapping, and capping approach to systematically address behavioral and emotional issues. Collaborate with each other to ensure consistent support for the child.
For Students:
Know that these steps are ways to help you feel better and succeed in school. Your teachers and parents are working together to support you.
Addressing Potential Issues
Modern challenges like addiction, stress, and behavioral disorders are becoming increasingly common among students. Early identification and intervention are key to preventing long-term problems.
For Parents and Teachers:
Be vigilant about changes in behavior that may indicate underlying issues such as potential addiction to substances or digital devices. Take time to Educate yourselves about the signs of addiction and stress-related behaviors.
For Students:
If you feel over-stressed or tempted by unhealthy habits, speak to a trusted adult. They are there to help you find solutions and support you.
The Evolving Educational Landscape
The dynamics of education and behavior management have changed significantly over generations. Today’s children face different pressures and challenges compared to previous generations.
For Parents and Teachers:
Adapt to these changes by staying informed about modern educational challenges and mental health issues. Encourage open communication with children about their experiences and feelings.
For Students:
Remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Your well-being is important, and there are many people around you who care and want to support you.
Understanding and addressing child behavior requires a collaborative effort between parents, teachers, and students. By paying attention to non-verbal cues, using structured approaches like bench, desk, and table levels, and staying vigilant about potential issues, we can create a supportive and nurturing environment for our children. Remember, it’s not just about managing behavior but also about fostering emotional and intellectual growth for a better future.
