EducationWorld is pleased to present this professional development resource shared by Dr. Jane Bluestein, an expert in relationship-building, positive school climate and effective instruction. Like boundaries, choices are motivational tools that encourage young people's cooperation through empowerment. Choices build responsibility and commitment, communicate the teacher's respect for students' needs and preferences and can encourage students to perform a particular behavior.
"My students love it! It really challenges them to master the concepts. I told one of my students to change to another topic so she could practice for the upcoming tests, and she said, 'No, wait! I want to get to 100% first!' I have never seen her more motivated to succeed!"
It can be heartbreaking if your child doesn't get invited to a classmate's birthday party, isn't chosen for the lead role in the play, or sits alone at recess. Though it's not easy being left out, how you help them deal with it can make all the difference in the world.