Q&A for How to Interact with Children

Try to get down on their level, especially if you're a teacher. Get down close to them so you aren't standing or towering above them. This way, they won't feel small.

Don't treat students as adults. Instead, treat them as somebody you respect.

Try forming a relationship with them. Ask them questions, be genuinely interested in what they have to say, and give them plenty of time to speak.

Try holding a themed morning meeting with your students. On Monday, the kids could write in their weekend journals, and the students could ask each other questions or share comments. Tuesday might be a feelings check-in day, while Wednesday could revolve around a "Would You Rather" question. Thursday can have a "Think About It Thursday" question, and Friday could involve a riddle.

Kids are new to the world so everything is interesting and exciting to them. Sometimes it can be fun to listen to them talk about things they're experiencing for the first time. If you really need them to be quiet, try giving them a quiet game to play or activity to do, or read them a story.

Answer when your baby makes sounds. Read to your child beginning at birth, and ask questions and engage them about what you're reading. Help to develop your toddler's language by talking with her and adding words. Encourage your child to tell you her name and age. Teach your child simple songs like “Itsy Bitsy Spider”, or other cultural childhood rhymes.