A09: Meeting the needs of children in the classroom

A09 Meeting the needs of children in the classroom
Stacey Kemp

This workshop introduces the idea of ‘First Hour Needs’ and presents research done by the presenter, which led to the development of a chart to use in the classroom to help with some of those more difficult behaviour issues.

Target group: K – 7

I missed a few mins of the intro due to my other session being cancelled.  I gather that “first hour needs” means the first hour of class, or sometimes before class.

The needs are mostly social and psychological: acknowledgement, encouragement, communication, socialization, touch, humour, structure.  Physical activity, relaxation, and nutrition are also needs.

I was confused at some of the categorical boundaries, like the quibble of a difference between acknowledgement and encouragement, or communication and the catch-all socialization.  These categories came from someone elses’ work, which eventually were ‘tested’ and became what I think was Kemp’s Masters’ thesis, but were a little less specific than I would have liked.

Aside from this, the content of the seminar was interesting for teachers looking for tips on managing troubled students.  One of Kemp’s students kept goldfish in the classroom to have something to do first thing in the morning to tame chronic acting out.  I have heard other teachers echo this, where assigning students tasks of ‘responsibility’ help to combat bad behaviour and disinterest. I think this would work for high school too, with some modifications. Any ideas?

Kemp emphasizes making a plan with all stakeholders if you are dealing with difficult students.

The sheet notes : “how it may look” and “what you can do”, though I think some of the classroom management ideas are fairly standard (“award systems”, “give students choices”), and some be fun for high school students too.

Overall a good boost of confidence in dealing with tough cases. You can reach those extra students if you put your mind to it—first hour of the day.

These pearl of wisdom are brought to you by: A09 Meeting the needs of children in the classroom 
Stacey Kemp