Over the years, many catechists have commented to me that they admire those who teach junior high and high school and that they opted for the “easier” age group of pre-K and primary grades. I’ve always turned it right back around on them and expressed my admiration for anyone who can teach the youngest among us! It is a gift that I never felt I had, which is why I have always gravitated toward teaching older children, and I stand in awe of those who engage young children and keep their attention. In my mind, there is nothing easy about it!
There are unique skills and strategies that go into working with various age groups, and the same is true of working with younger children. I fielded a question about this very topic during a webinar to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Catechist’s Journey. Here’s how I responded; I hope it’s helpful!
Enjoyed listening to the ideas for learning. I agree that changing the environment in which a specific lesson is taught encourages students to feel more engaged and remember context better.
Thanks Jo Ann…our learning space “speaks” loudly (for better or worse!)
My youngest has ADHD and is now an adult. I started teaching 3 year olds and now teach all primary grades (Pre-K through 5th grade all at the same time-it is a small class). We have to change activities often for all the grades. One thing the kids all like- all the mixed ages- is me singing (silly but they like to giggle at me) and doing a hands on project that all of them can enjoy. Something for the bulletin board or such things. Over the holiday break, they are each making a felt quilt square showing all the things important to them and their families. Then I sew them together and we get to display it for all to see. We had lots of crosses on last year’s “quilt”, which I was glad to see. They also like to make felt banners celebrating their lesson – baptism, etc.
Thanks for sharing your great ideas, Bobbi! I love that you sing to your kids and the quilt idea is awesome!