After-school leaders and teachers have a hard job! They are working with elementary-age children who are tired and ready to let go, and yet they have to help those students learn, focus, and behave. How do they engage these students? Here are some tricks\u2026<\/p>\n
Have Fun:<\/strong> This may seem basic, but it is often overlooked. The more enjoyable the experience is for kids, the more likely they\u2019ll be fully engaged and agreeable to learning and behaving. In most cases, students already regard after-school programs as a more relaxed environment than the school day, so don\u2019t fight it. Instead, lean into it and include some silliness and levity in all programs, especially those with an academic focus.<\/p>\n Movement Breaks:<\/strong> Incorporate short movement throughout the afternoon. Those little bodies have been sitting still far more than they are meant to do. This behavior is frequently manifested as restlessness, yet it can also exhibit as a deficiency in self-control, challenges with emotional regulation, and difficulties in maintaining focus. Simple exercises, stretches, or quick physical activity can help re-energize their bodies and minds.<\/p>\n Hands-On Activities:<\/strong> Introduce hands-on activities that involve manipulation or interaction. Whether it’s an experiment, a game, building robots, or doing a craft, engaging kids in tangible tasks can help keep their minds active and alleviate tiredness. A bit of a challenge is better than something easy to keep focus and engagement. However, frustration tolerance can be rather low during this part of the day so avoid tasks that might be especially challenging.<\/p>\n Multi-Sensory Learning:<\/strong> Appeal to multiple senses during the lesson. Use visuals, props, or interactive materials to make the learning experience more sensory-rich. This approach can help capture students\u2019 attention and make the content more memorable. Every child learns differently, but they all learn less efficiently when they are tired. It\u2019s necessary to deliver lessons in many forms to cover all those differences to compensate for this slow-down.<\/p>\n