unengaged OR NOT PARTICIPATINg
Why is this a challenge and how can you help?
Students may become unengaged when something is challenging or not interesting to them. There are so many ways to hook or engage a student. Creating challenges that are achievable help the student feel more excited. Making something more fun by incorporating a game, adding a whiteboard table to help the student want to write, or honing in on a student’s area of interest can gain their focus and enthusiasm. If a student seems uninterested they could be feeling shame surrounding their performance. It is important to give the student breaks to reconnect with themselves and the material. It is also important to develop a connection with the student so they feel understood and valued as a person. In addition, consider factors outside of the classroom that could be affecting a student - major life change at home, loss/grief, hunger, etc.
Tips
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Play - Integrate play, humor, games to hook the student and get them excited about a task or subject area.
Interest - Hone in on personal interests (sports, dinosaurs, music, whatever it may be) to help engage the student.
Novelty - Find something new to entice interest.
a new pencil or writing instrument
a new notebook
an environment shift
Connection - Involve a special teacher, someone the student trusts and knows well to motivate and encourage.
Hurry up! - Create manageable deadlines. Use a step-by-step flow chart and a timer.
Is the child disengaged because they are hungry? A snack could also help.
Are they having a struggle with something at home? Try to find a time to connect with the student one-on-one.