Ive just started cadet teaching in a first grade class how do I get the kids to feel comfortable around me?

Question

Im so excited about this but Im also really nervous. Im so worried the kids will ask me a question, and I wont know the anwser, or Ill tell them the wrong anwser. like today when the kids were studing leaves and one of the kids asked me why there was a whole in her leaf. I told her a worm ate through it, because thats what worms eat. WORMS! I meant catapillar, and I told her a second later, I meant a catapillar, but Im sure she wont be asking me a question anytime soon. lol and when the teacher was tryin to get everyones attention, but they were looking at a butterfly, I tried to be like "hey guys, lets go over and hear what mrs.arthurs saying." but they ignored me. I dont want to be weak so they dont respect me, but Im not good at being in charge or anything like that. I feel so incompetent, and I know theyre just 1st graders... I shouldnt be so worried.

I thought I should add

cadet teaching- I go over to the elementary school for an hour and a half every day instead of having a seventh hour class at my high school

Answer 1

Hi..

Relax....kids admire grown ups..they want to be the teacher and your best friend. They want to show you how smart they are...so if you feel uncomfortable answering their questions...why don't you see what they know first..let them brainstorm for a minute while you get a chance to think..without being caught off guard...(i.e how do you think that lead got a hole in it? they may say the wind, a bird, they will tell you what they think....) and then you can say...well maybe a caterpillar or a worm ate an aphid or a bug off of it...read the very hungry caterpillar..etc... just go with the flow....but relax and have fun...

the most important thing is..be consistent....be fair....and be patient....kids have only been in the world for a few years...stop and think about that...how much they are cramming their little brains with trying to figure out this big complex world. ...be friendly and inviting....ask them about themselves (family, pets, what do they like to do, etc) then talk about the things you have in common...I like that on my icecream also, etc. Once they get to know you a little bit..they will be coming to tell you all sorts of things to see if you like them as well..

The most important thing to remember..if the children are having fun..it makes your job easier and they are actually learning. They learn thru their play (their work)..

Answer 2

well, when you want the kids to listen to you, than speak in a firm voice, so the kids know whos in carge. But to keep the kids from thinking you are mean because of your voice, think off a fun, educational, and relevent activity for them to do. You also need have self confidence, and if you have any questions, than you should talk to the teacher and ask for advice

Answer 3

Don't be an f'n p$%ssy! Tell them do drop and give you 20. Then, take 5 fastest ones, and throw them around like rag dolls, screaming "I MEANT 20 DOLLARS U LITTLE MO$#ER FU*&ERS!" It won't help them feel comfortable around you, but it will help you forget you have no idea wot the f#%k you are talking about.

P.S. Some of the most influential/possitive/memorable people i've encountered in my life couldn't have given a flying f@#k if i was comfortable.

Answer 4

Easy! Kool-Aide & Cookies!
Don't be so self-conscientious! You aren't 6 anymore! You're in charge so take charge & quit acting like a 6 year old!
[woims...jeesh]

Answer 5

ide try to do sumthign they think is cool maybe catch there attention and let them like you at the same time

Answer 6

You be yourself! Dont yell at them! TREAT them like they are your own kids! THey will love you! Thanks for teaching our KIDS! GOD BLESS YOU!