Hey Reader!

Remember that sweet little child who quietly watched everything during the first few weeks of school?

She’s talking. A LOT.

And the little boy who carefully followed every direction in September? He has discovered that making his friends laugh is really fun.

The child who seemed easygoing? Suddenly has an opinion about everything and seems to be digging in his heels more often!

Welcome to October!

As children become comfortable with their teachers, friends, and routines, we often see more of their personalities. That's a good thing! They are beginning to feel safe enough to be themselves.

But sometimes “being themselves” means testing boundaries, seeking attention, or showing us some very strong opinions.

So what can we do?

Look for the strength underneath the behavior. It’s going to require some time to pause and reflect.

Instead of only thinking, “How do I stop this behavior?” try asking, “What is this child showing me?”

That silly child may have a wonderful sense of humor.
The child who always wants to be first or direct her friends’ play may have strong leadership skills.
The child who asks “Why?” 47 times may be incredibly curious.

We definitely can’t just ignore challenging behavior. But we can look for the strength underneath it and find appropriate ways to use that strength WHILE also staying consistent with our boundaries and expectations.

Give big personalities a positive outlet.

If your class comedian loves making everyone laugh, give them a chance to be the “daily joke teller” or lead a silly movement song.

If your little leader is always telling others what to do, give them a classroom job.

If your curious child has endless questions, keep a simple “I Wonder” list and explore a few questions together.

Sometimes children need to learn when and where their strengths are appropriate—not that those strengths are bad.

Connect before you correct.

When a child is testing a boundary, get close, make eye contact, and use a calm, simple statement.

· “Blocks are for building. You may build with them or help me put them away.”

· “You really want to be the leader. Today it's Maya's turn. You can be my helper.”

You don't need a long lecture. Calm, consistent responses teach children that boundaries are still there—even when their personalities are getting bigger.

And remember: You are getting to know the real child.

September is often about learning names, routines, and basic expectations.

October gives us a chance to learn more about the tiny human beings – the people - in our classroom.

Who is the storyteller?
Who is the encourager?
Who is the problem-solver?
Who needs to move?
Who notices every tiny detail?

Those discoveries are part of the joy of teaching.

God made each child uniquely—and part of our work is helping them learn how to use those gifts well.

So when the personalities start coming out this month, take a breath. You may be seeing something pretty wonderful underneath all that silliness, stubbornness, curiosity, and energy. Take a moment at the end of the day and reflect:

· Which personality traits am I actually seeing in these children who test me?

· Which children are still “in their shell” and how can help them get fully comfortable too?

We’d love to hear from you! What are your biggest challenges right now? Reply here and let us know!

Cheering you on this week!

-Your ECCN team

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