SDIC: Q&A with Elementary and Special Education Teacher
By Lindsey D.
SmartSitting Diversity and Inclusion Council Education and Resources Advocate
“I think a bright spot for coming out of the pandemic is kids really, really want to be in school now. “
It's hard to believe that it has been nearly two years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many parents, children and families are experiencing a wide range of new emotions and challenges since resuming in-person school this year. Below is an interview with a skilled, experienced educator who is dual-certified in elementary and special education, who shares her insight on how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted student learning, changes she has seen in comparison to previous years and how parents, families and sitters can help to support their children at home.
What is your current role at your school?
“I am a dual certified elementary and special educator. I’m currently working as a second-grade classroom teacher.”
What are kids saying about the current state of the pandemic?
“They are ready for it to be over. They’re missing a lot of the fun things about school.”
Have you noticed any differences between this school year and the last?
“Definitely. Last year, there was an immense amount of fear and awareness about getting sick. They always kept their mask on (even on Zoom sometimes!). It is hard for many children to fully comprehend what is happening. But, these kids are resilient and really amaze me!”
How have you changed your teaching style as a result of COVID-19?
“I’ve incorporated more social emotional learning into the classroom than ever before. I think it’s important to remember that these kids haven’t had a normal school year in very long time. If you think about it, the last time current third graders had a “normal” school year, it was in Kindergarten. As teachers, we really need to show them patience and reteach routines as many of the “normal” school routines have been forgotten or never acquired.”
Do you have any recommendations for how parents and caregivers can support student’s social emotional needs at home?
The SPOT books are awesome. They teach about self-management, self-awareness, responsible decision making, social awareness and relationship skills. You can get the plush toys that correspond with the feelings books too, which the kids love! I would also encourage journaling at home about feelings or things they enjoy. If a child can’t write yet, they can draw pictures, too. Yoga and mindfulness for self-regulation is great too!”
The pandemic has obviously greatly impacted students’ social emotional needs and their academic learning. Have there been any positives?
“I bet if you asked any kid now, ‘would you rather learn at home or in school?’ a majority of student would answer, ‘school.’ Whenever we have a day off or have had to quarantine, our first day back is the best day. The classroom is a safe space for so many kids and they really thrive off of routine, especially during a pandemic where guidelines and regulations are constantly changing.
”Students technology skills have really improved, too. They’re able to navigate new programs on the computer pretty easily. Typing skills have also drastically improved in comparison to previous years. I’m actually pretty impressed.”
Do you have any other suggestions for how parents can support their children?
“Try to help your children to build some independence. Encourage children to try something first before giving up. You can encourage them to try one or two different ways before asking for help. This will help to further develop problem solving skills.
”Encourage growth mindset. Talk about mistakes- “what did you learn from them?” Praise the process and effort when a child accomplishes something that is hard (i.e., “you must have worked really hard. You must be really proud of yourself).”
Resources to promote social emotional learning and growth mindset:
A Little SPOT of Emotion Box Set
How’s your experience been of your children or charges returning to in-person school this year? We always love to hear from you on our Instagram or Facebook! For more important information and advice from Smart Sitting’s Diversity and Inclusion Council, SDIC, sign up for our family or nanny newsletter.