Learning accompanied with playing and relaxation keeps kids fresh and attentive. When learning is boring, they lose focus. Their brains are not programmed to study continuously and seriously. How can they study and have fun at the same time? Take breaks. Whether it is about counting, drawing, or spelling, take some time off and let kids dance, sing, tell stories or entertain themselves in any way possible. They can study for one hour or 30 minutes, then take a break for about 15 minutes. This helps refresh the brain and they are able to grasp what is being taught. When kids are bored they get sleepy. Take learning outside. Let learning take place in different spaces. One day in the classroom, the next, in the field or playground, or even under a tree shade. The fresh air keeps them active. Allow children to participate in what you are teaching. Don’t leave any child behind. When kids are given a chance to participate, they become more composed, thus develop self-esteem. Take a moment and ask kids to run, give gifts to those that reach the suggested place first. This will keep them interested in sports. Make learning practical. It is more interesting putting what you teach in practice. For instance; if the topic is about counting, kids shouldn’t stop at writing numbers in their books, rather, counting different things like books, pens, pencils, and much more. That’s how they will attach value to what they are taught. Pay attention to children’s interests. Give chance to them to tell you their hobbies and interests. Call them out to show their classmates what they are good at. It could be singing, dancing, reading, playing an instrument, or drawing. Whatever their interest is, support and appreciate them. It grooms talent, and is relaxing at the same time. Create time for interactions. Teach kids about the importance of making friends. Spare about 10 minutes for them to talk to friends. Put learning and spelling into singing. Kids learn fast if they sing as they spell. Give them fun ways to spell words; it won’t be easy for them to forget the songs. Give class assignments. Ask kids to draw anything, it could be an animal, a car, tree or house and ask them to use their favourite colours. You can also engage kids in storytelling—about their homes, the activities they like, their favourite food, what they want to be in the future, and so on. This could happen during a short break but it will help the teacher know more about the kids they’re teaching. editor@newtimesrwanda.com
