Building Connections with Your Students

By Loy Dakwa | July 8, 2024

As a new teacher, establishing your authority in the classroom is essential, but equally important is showing your students that you are approachable and relatable. Students learn better when they feel connected to their teachers as real people, not just distant authority figures. Here’s how you can share personal aspects of your life appropriately to build those vital connections.

1. Share Your Background and Culture

Tell your story: Share where you grew up, where you went to school, and your journey to becoming a teacher. Highlight experiences that shaped who you are.
Celebrate your culture: Bring elements of your culture into the classroom. Share stories, traditions, or even holidays you celebrate. This not only humanizes you but also enriches the students’ cultural awareness.

2. Introduce Your Family Life

Share family anecdotes: Without delving too deeply into personal details, share funny or interesting stories about your family. This could be about your parents, siblings, spouse, or even your pets.
Use photos sparingly::Consider having a few photos on your desk or classroom wall. Pictures of your family or pets can be great conversation starters and help students feel more connected to you.

3. Discuss Your Hobbies and Interests

Talk about your hobbies: Whether you love reading, hiking, playing an instrument, or painting, let your students know. You can even incorporate these interests into your lessons.
Connect through common interests: If you find that some students share your interests, engage them in conversations about those topics. It shows that you value their individuality and builds a stronger connection.

4. Be Open About Your Challenges

Share age-appropriate struggles: Talk about challenges you faced as a student, like struggling with a particular subject or dealing with peer pressure. Ensure the stories are appropriate and relevant to their age group.
Model resilience: Spend a few minutes each evening writing in a journal. Reflecting on your day and expressing gratitude can improve your mental well-being.
Creative hobbies: Explain how you overcame these challenges. This not only humanizes you but also provides a valuable lesson in perseverance and problem-solving.

5. Maintain Boundaries

Be selective: Share enough to be relatable, but avoid oversharing or discussing deeply personal issues that could blur the professional line.
Stay professional: Spend a few minutes each evening writing in a journal. Reflecting on your day and expressing gratitude can improve your mental well-being.
Creative hobbies: Always keep your language and demeanor professional. Remember, you are a role model, and maintaining respect is crucial.

Conclusion

By sharing appropriate aspects of your personal life, you can transform from a stuffy authoritarian into a relatable, approachable figure in your students’ eyes. This approach fosters a more positive and engaging classroom environment, where students feel comfortable and motivated to learn. Remember, your goal is to show them that you are human too, and that connection can significantly enhance their educational experience. So, open up, share your story, and watch your relationships with your students flourish.