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Brite/Brief Article

This was for an assignment that is called a "brite" or a "brief" and is considered the lighter side of news. Many self-help and tips-and-tricks articles fall under this category.

Meeting the Challenge of Working with Kids

At home and in the classroom, children with special needs can be a challenge. It is important to remember that you are shaping the future minds and psyches of tomorrow’s adults. There are some things to remember when working with children of all types, whether they have special needs or they just need some attention.

Giving frequent, early, positive feedback allows children to know how they are doing.
Assign tasks that are neither too easy nor too difficult, know the child’s range of difficulty.
Find a way to make the material relate back to the student, show them the real world value or relevance of a lesson or project.
Create an open and positive atmosphere. Children should never feel ridiculed for asking a question or offering an incorrect answer.
Help children feel that they are valued members of the home or learning community.
Ask children to analyze what makes their tasks or classes more or less motivating, have them grade you.
Be enthusiastic and be understanding. The task may not be what the child enjoys, but with the right attitude, it can be made to be more bearable.
Be specific when giving negative feedback, let them know where they need to improve and why they need to improve.
Never be demeaning and avoid offhand remarks that may make children feel inadequate.
Help children work through problems, giving them the answers takes away opportunities for them to exercise their problem solving skills.
Remember that play is an important part of learning. Playing teaches children about how things work. Whether its how water runs through dirt to make a river or about relationships and how to handle situations positively. Play is necessary for the emotional and educational development.
Respect the children and what they have to say. Sometimes as adults, we forget that children can offer valuable insight and information, giving them the chance to express themselves teaches them to communicate positively and lowers the frustration levels which can result in tantrums.