Observing Communication

For this blog assignment, I chose to observe our new kindergarten teacher.  She had taken her class to the restrooms for a quick bathroom break. She had some boys that were not following the procedures for the hallway.  I observed her getting down at their level, asking them to tell her what it was they were suppose to be doing, and explaning to them why it is important to follow procedures.  During this time, she maintained a very calm and pleasant voice, she also was very direct with her responses.   I think this helped the children understand why it was important to do the right thing.  Because she was using a calm voice, the boys did not act fearful of her. 
When I use to work in daycare and kindergarten, I would also get at the child's level.  I think it is important to make eye contact with them when you are talking.  Sometimes though, I would get a little louder than I should and I think that this may have scared some kids. When dealing with young children, we need to make sure we explain why we don't want them to do something instead of just telling them not to do it. I liked how she held the kids accountable by asking them what they were suppose to be doing instead of just telling them.
I think for the most part I am a good communicator with young children.  One area I would like to strengthen on is rushing.  Since there is so much that has to be taught in a day's time, I rush kids to tell me things or I may just give quick, short blurts as answeres.  I need to slow sown and really show the kids that I am interested in what they have to say.