Job Discussion Forums

[anto_funnfunn]

Hey y'all:

I'm about to have my first day teaching kindergarten and younger, what's it like teaching kids who can't speak much english...do you have any [uplifting stories to calm newbie jitters?
and for those with Aeon amity: is it mostly "babysitting" like some posts have implied?

-much appreciated,

Anto.

[JimDunlop2]

Don't sweat it! Kids are just like little people!!! (joke)....

But no, seriously.... If you come prepared with fun stuff for the class, it'll be a piece of cake and the kids will love you. At our Eikawa, kids that young usually come to class with their moms, and there is a Japanese teacher present as well, but even if you don't, you can still do it well enough.

Songs: especially with lots of actions.... Head, shoulders, knees & toes is a basic staple of their diet... So is "If you're happy and you know it."

Also, games, stories, flashcards, a ball, etc..etc... Whatever you decide to do with them, make it fun! For the first day, keep games & activities fairly simple... The kids are just getting used to a new teacher... Deciphering complicated instructions will be the last thing on their mind.

Coloring: killer! Definitely useful to have some coloring sheets with you.... Calms kids down and is fun too.

If you don't know ANY Japanese, you may wish to consider learning a few basis phrases, or bringing in a phrase sheet.... One of the Japanese staff or a veteran teacher can set you up with that..

Kids are kids... no matter if you speak their language or not.... As far as the babysitting comments go.... I don't think you have to be with AEON to feel like a babysitter.... I think you're a babysitter almost anywhere unless it's a public school or a cram school.... But think of yourself as the next Mr. Rogers (or Ms. Rogers)??? And this is YOUR neighbourhood! And like I said before... you'll do fine!!!