Former Teacher and YA and MG Author on Handling The Age Group

by Beverly Stowe McClure, @beverlymcclure

Writer and former teacher Beverly Stowe McClure with reminders on dealing with kids during these tough times: 

This is a great subject, and I am delighted to share my thoughts with you and would enjoy hearing yours, as well. Remember, these are my thoughts, not facts on dealing with children and teens. Many years ago, I was a teacher. I know lots of things have changed since then, but some things are still the same. The students. Well, they’ve changed in some ways, too, but they still need guidance through those tough school years, even if they believe they know everything.

I did not teach in High School or Middle School, but my students, from second grade to third to fifth, taught me as much as I taught them, perhaps more in some ways. I learned to be patient. How did that happen when the little trouble-maker in the class always questioned me about something? Instead of insisting I was right, I listened to his/her idea or suggestion and gave it some thought. If it wouldn’t work, I explained why, but thanked him/her for the suggestion. Build up a child’s or teen’s self-confidence, and they’ll do better in school.

Fifth grade was my favorite. The children are more independent and also think they know more than anyone else, which they may very well be correct. Patience, again, gives them the self-confidence they need. Be honest. Talk with the students to help them understand what they’re doing is wrong, if it is. When a kid needs a kind word, complement him/her for something they’ve done. Kind words. Sincere words. Honest words. They can tell when you’re not being truthful.

Children and teens need encouragement. So do parents and teachers. Work together. Sometimes, more help is needed for a student that’s having problems. Time to talk to the parents, if they haven’t already. Work together. Our children, no matter their age, are priceless. Take care of them. They’ll be the parents and teachers someday.

Thanks for these tips, Beverly, for working together with kids, especially during these tough days. My own children are grown now, but I remember “patience” being one of the most challenging aspects…and the most-needed! Readers, do you have tips for dealing with kids or developing patience? 

Most of the time you’ll find Beverly Stowe McClure at the computer, writing stories young voices whisper in her ears, everything from contemporary to historical to sport and ghostly tales. Several of her novels have won awards, such as the Children’s Literary Classics, Next Generation Indie Awards, Eric Hoffer Awards, Purple Dragonfly, and others.

When she’s not writing she’s snapping pictures of wildlife and sunsets. She also has stories published in three Chicken Soup For The Soul Anthologies. A former school teacher, Beverly is a long-time member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She also teaches a women’s Sunday school class at her church. And she’s working on starting a Newsletter to keep fans updated with her work.

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