5. Have a toy or game with you at all times.
This is especially great for those shy kids. It’s amazing what a Gumby or Pokey bendable toy will do. (Yes, two of my favorites that work great because most kids today don’t know who they are!) Or how a quick game of Jacks can warm up a conversation. (That’s another old-school game that’s novel for today’s kids, can be played in about 30 seconds, and is easy to carry.)
6. Ask about their week.
If you know children and some things they’re involved with (soccer, dance, etc.), then ask about it. If you don’t know them, ask them what their favorite thing was that they did this week. You’ll quickly learn what’s important to them, and talking about that topic is exactly how you’ll break the ice.
7. Ask them to help you.
I’ve rarely met a kid who didn’t want to help me do something in the classroom. Help me set up, monitor an activity station, or carry something. You get the idea. When kids feel needed and wanted, the ice gets broken very quickly.
What other tips do you recommend for connecting with kids?
