Dealing With Students' Feelings or Problems

Check out the article HERE!

As mentioned in a post last week, having a student who is emotionally impaired has opened my eyes even more to student's emotions and feelings. While reading this article I not only learned the difference between "non-supportive" and "supportive" response, but examples of each as well. The linked handout (found here) by Dr. Bluestein was very insightful. However, while reading through the examples of responses I find that I give both non-supportive and supportive responses. This was alarming to me, as the article states that "non-supportive responses can block communication and create mistrust" which is definitely something I am not meaning to do. The list of supportive responses seem much more general and simple; almost leaving the situation open-ended for the child to solve on their own terms (or to seek help).

After reading the list of example, I am going to print the list of supportive responses to keep in my classroom. I hope to become more conscience of the responses I give to students who are emotionally charged in order to keep communication open and have a sense of trust.