Bring the activity to a thoughtful close.

Bring the activity to a thoughtful close.

Working with children brings many small decisions into the day. You might be helping with an activity, leading a group, or planning with a team. Consider the children’s ages, interests, and access needs before choosing an approach. Give their questions a place in the plan, and follow your program’s procedures.

Consult4Kids offers The Kids’ Program Toolkit as a free download, plus a free call.

Look at the first action children need to take. Can you state it clearly and show what it means? Check that the materials are ready and that the group can see or access the explanation. A long set of directions may contain several different tasks, so decide what needs to happen first.

Invite children to explain the starting step in their own way rather than relying only on a yes when you ask if they understand. Offer an appropriate demonstration if it helps. Keep the pace and language suited to the group. Once they begin, observe where questions arise. You may need to clarify a word, show a tool, or adjust the way the task is presented. Use that information when you plan again.

Check the approach with the adults responsible for the group. Explain what you observed and ask what fits the program plan. Keep your support suited to the child and the task, with room to adjust when needed.

Picture asking what the group would like to try again. Consider how this would look in your own setting. Which part fits, and which part needs more thought? Keep a brief note of what you want to ask. You can return to that note when you have time to think it through.

Start with the free download, or bring your questions to a free call. Choose the next step that fits what you want to explore. Download the guide or choose a free call: https://earningenterprises.com/lp.php?p=C4K