Tips for Keeping Small Kids Active and Happy in ECD Classes

“Even though small kids don’t understand all the words, they do have the ability to sense the emotional environment. They will react to whatever kind of emotion is sent their way”

We have all known about ECD classes. Probably, attended those as toddlers ourselves. Many kids enjoy their time in such classes and many are frightful of even the thought of it! So is there a way to make kids love these classes? Indeed, there is! But before we get into that, let’s understand the meaning and importance of ECD classes.

Early childhood development or ‘ECD’ is termed since the birth of the child to primary school. ECD is responsible for early physical health and nourishment, cognitive development, linguistic development, socio-emotional development, etc. many parents turns to ECD classes so that their kids are not destitute of these.

First few years for small kids are full of discoveries and encounters. This is also a time where the brain develops most rapidly. With the help of ECD classes, a kid’s true potential can be unleashed. In ECD classes caring teachers provide exciting activities for the children, educating them, providing all the necessary services to ensure the right development of the kids. ECD classes help Build sharp minds and a healthy body.

ECD classes provide opportunities and skills to the kids, making it easier for them to achieve their dreams in the future. It’s truly the foundation for a successful future If the kids aren’t active or happy in schools, it might limit their chances at a progressive future. So, here are a few tips to keep small kids active and happy in ECD classes:

1. Determine the root cause of the problem

It is very common for a kid to seem uninterested in the ECD classes. The best way to counteract that is by finding the root cause of misbehaviour in young kids. Once the causes have surfaced, solutions will start unfolding by itself.

2. Give them individual attention

Before anything, you need to recognize individuality. You need to spend time with the kids on a one on one basis to understand their troubles. This will help you understand their interest, likes, dislikes and even more.

3. Be patient

You need to remember that they are only kids! There’s a limit to how much they can absorb and understand.  If you want to make changes in their behavior and make them happier, explain those things one step at a time. Don’t bombard them with your needs.

4. Don’t demoralize them

Instead of discouraging the kids, encourage them towards things they are good at. Many kids might be discouraged and can become unhappy if theirs friends are performing better than them. You would play a very important role in such situations. Don’t let them undermine themselves. You need to make them understand that’s its okay!

5. Let them connect with the kids of their age

It is very important for young kids to spend quality time with children their age. They’ll be happier and more willing to learn if they are in the company of the other kids. You can even help the kids to socialize with each other.

6. Provide as many chances and opportunities as possible

Don’t forget they are only starting to learn and they will make mistakes. Don’t deprive them of opportunities. Let them learn.

7. Keep it fun

Plan activities that are not only educational but are also fun. You don’t want the kids to dread the classes. Instead, merge educational and physical activities. This will not only keep the kids active and happy but will give them valuable educating lessons in the process.

8. Don’t dictate, educate!

Don’t just instruct the kids to do. Teach them. Educate them and tell them the importance of it all. You don’t have to be an authoritative figure around them. Make them feel comfortable.

9. Promote positivity

You should be positive around the children. Positivity and happiness go hand in hand. This can also boost self-confidence in them. Even though small kids don’t understand all the words, they do have the ability to sense the emotional environment. They will react to whatever kind of emotion is sent their way.

10.Never humiliate the kid

Be careful while correcting unwanted behaviour. Take rapid actions. Make sure you don’t do it in front of other kids though.

11. Be appreciative

Appreciate them even for the smallest of achievement. Reward them! This will keep them wanting to learn more.

12. Respect them

We often ask kids to respect elders but we hardly ever show any respect towards them. When the kids are young, they are learning the foundation of being respectful. You need to respect their needs and demands too. This will ensure that they will be more interactive and respectful of the kids around them.

13. Honour their interests

If the kid is inclined towards certain kinds of interest in the classes, consider those too. This will keep the kid interested in attending the ECD classes. Kids will be more participative if they are doing activities that are of interest to them.

14. Set an example

If you are spending a good amount of time with the kids, they its possible they are going to look up to you. Ensure you imbibe good qualities in them. You are probably a role model to them. So, you better practice what you preach!

15. Listen!

Listen to them! Analyse their issues. It’s possible that you might end up finding ways to keep them active and happy simply by talking and listening to them.

These above mentioned tips are going to help you keep the kids in ECD classes’ happy and active leading to a better prospective productive society.