Put a pause between the question and your answer.

Put a pause between the question and your answer.

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.

Choose a decision the child can genuinely make. The options should fit the task, available materials, and program rules. Explain the boundary in plain words so the choice is clear. For example, a child may be able to choose a suitable way to respond while the topic stays the same.

Allow time to consider the options, and check whether each is accessible to the children involved. Do not present an unavailable option simply to make the activity sound flexible. Once a choice is made, explain the next action and the support available. Later, ask what the child noticed about that approach. Use the response as one piece of information when planning future opportunities for participation.

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.

Imagine allowing time for a child to finish thinking. Take a moment to look at the details you have gathered. Separate what is clear from what still needs an answer. Then choose the next question you want to explore. Keep the plan within the time and responsibilities you actually have.

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