How to Relate to Kids

Teachers and parents seem to have a knack for talking to kids and relating to them. It is not a gift that you are born with, though it does seem to come easier to some. You can relate to kids by following some guidelines and easing up on your anxiety about it.

Instructions

1. Put yourself on their level. Use their first name, and look them in the eye. Kids will respond to adults that treat them as humans, and relate to them the same way.

2. Be succinct. Give instructions simply and briefly. Allow them to ask questions and give them room to try and fail and then try again. You can relate to kids by not coddling them or attempting to shield them from disappointment.

3. Use positive feedback. Working with children can be very rewarding for both parties. Give criticism on a positive note. Talking down to kids, and only pointing out their flaws, will not help you relate to kids, it only alienates them.

4. Listen to them. Adults have a tendency to feel as though they know more than kids do. Listen to kids and you may learn more than you teach. Keeping these lines open the relationship between you and the child will grow.

5. Be kind. Don't throw manners out the window just because you are dealing with a child. "Please" and "thank you" go a long way. You relate to kids just as you relate to other adults, and you will win them over with kindness.