Know Your Why and Effectively Communicate It to Anxious Students
Anxiety can manifest in students in a variety of ways. One way this happens is when teachers are inconsistent or lack clear expectations; it can make students feel anxious and uncertain. This can lead to students feeling lost and confused, which can make it difficult for them to learn. Educators can help students with anxiety by making it clear that they want to help.
One of the most important things that educators can do to support students with anxiety is to know their why. Why do you want to help these students? What motivates you to make a difference in their lives? When you know your why, it will give you the strength and determination to persevere even when things get tough.
Once you know your why, it is important to effectively communicate it to anxious students. Let them know that you understand what they are going through and that you are there to help. Let them know that you believe in them and that you know they can overcome their anxiety.
There are a number of ways to effectively communicate with anxious students. Here are a few tips:
- Be patient and understanding. Anxiety can be a very debilitating condition, and it is important to be patient with students who are struggling. Let them know that you are there for them and that you will not judge them.
- Use positive language. Avoid using language that is negative or judgmental. Instead, focus on using positive language that will help students to feel better about themselves.
- Be specific. When you are talking to students about anxiety, be specific about what you are talking about. Avoid using general terms like "stressed" or "worried." Instead, talk about the specific symptoms that students are experiencing.
- Be supportive. Let students know that you are there to support them. Offer to help them find resources or to connect them with other students who are struggling with anxiety.
By following these tips and more in Anxious: How to Advocate for Students with Anxiety, Because What If It Turns Out Right?, you can effectively communicate with anxious students and help them to feel better about themselves and their ability to succeed.
Here are some additional tips for effectively communicating with anxious students:
- Listen actively. When students are talking to you about their anxiety, listen actively and without judgment. Let them know that you are there to listen and to help.
- Validate their feelings. Let students know that it is okay to feel anxious. Validate their feelings and let them know that you understand what they are going through.
- Offer hope. Let students know that there is hope for the future. Encourage them to seek help and to believe in themselves.
By following these tips, you can create a safe and supportive environment for anxious students.
