I have a first grade student who is so shy that I am always careful to keep her at ease when I am approaching or talking to her.
I use the knowledge that I have obtained from psychology classes, research, experience, and the student’s actions to present school (learning) as a positive endeavor.
So, at the beginning of the school year I stood away from this student when I notice that there is a problem and softly asked the student to come to my desk. As this student moves toward the desk I busy myself with other matters, because I do not want the student to look at me as someone who is waiting (causing them to hurry to my side rushing and being upset when they arrive). I greet the students with a smile and whisper as I speak. I will explain the task that is causing the problem and then stop talking to wait for the student to show me that they understand the task and/or ask a question.
This is a student who wants to please and feels sad (shuts down) when they interpret my actions as negative. But, because of our quite positive conversations and waiting time that happened behind the scenes this students is now confident enough to ask a question in front of the class and/or come to me with questions. This student also comes to me in order to show off work that has been completed correctly.
Positive behavior toward students can be defined as a step back and whisper.
I completely agree that it is esential to develop positive relationships with all students. This bond is especially important with shy, sensitive students who may internalize any perception of negativity or frustration on the teacher's end. I have lunch bunch with my students every Thursday. I draw two students names out of a jar, and give my undivided attention to them for the entire lunch period. This gives me a chance to know them as individuals and show that I care.
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