Relationship

I just spontaneously recorded a 33-minute Podcast without a single written word in front of me on the subject of relationship in education. Some good stories and worthy thoughts in there that deserve some airing here, but too much work at the moment. The gist of it is that amidst all the difficult details of mastering the craft of teaching, none is more important than the relationship between you and your students. No “perfect lesson” can reach them if not delivered with a wink and a nod and a smile that lets each child know— “I see you. I like you. I admire you. Thanks for being here with me.”

 

This was the punch line of my Children’s Demonstration at the Orff Conference, the feeling I had yesterday singing Holiday Songs with 2^nd and 3^rd graders in a local school, the delight I had today jamming with Middle School students I’ve been helping out on the killer grooves of Take Five and Oye Como Va. From kids I had first met, to kids I sing with just 3 or 4 times a year, to kids I know better working with them 10 to 15 times during the year, the ground we all walk—and dance on— is the ground of loving relationship. One that’s already in motion before anyone walks in the door because of the simple fact that I love kids— their energy, their curiosity, their quirkiness, their freedom of expression. The table is set before the meal is served and the love feast proceeds from the first morsel to the last spoonful of dessert. 

 

That’s all I’ll say for now. Meanwhile, check out the Podcast next Monday.