“That's Not Fair!”

Ah, yes, that familiar mantra that we all have heard, and if we are brave enough to admit, have had those three little words pass our lips, as well.

Whether one student was given a red pencil and the other a blue, or the hand sanitizer was given to the first child in line, rather than the third from the end, it is not surprising to hear the well-practiced, well-orchestrated chorus of “ That's not fair!” We expect it, we chuckle about it, but I have learned a very valuable lesson from it.

One of my clever professors shared a video workshop that was hosted by an extremely intelligent, insightful, and compassionate educator. He discussed the whole, “That's not fair!” phenomenon and imparted an enlightening perspective that I have since adopted. 

The true meaning of “not being fair,” is when we treat every person the same. We are individuals, and specifically related to our classrooms and our kids, they are the epitome of individuality. Each and every child has special needs that can only be accommodated by treating each child accordingly, meaning adjusting lesson plans, physical and emotional classroom dynamics, and oral and written levels of instructions to meet specific needs.

So, take the time to explain this concept to your age-appropriate group. I have found that this not only raises the self-esteem in those students with special needs, but also elevates the overall theme and reinforcement of the life skill of compassion.  

Time Management

Using a timer is an effective tool for teaching your child and/or student time management skills. However, it is ineffective if the student is, for instance, a struggling reader and is challenged by difficult vocabulary and is already experiencing frustration. If this particular child has not yet completed the assigned task at the time allotted, where is the teaching in just resetting the timer?

Let's provide the appropriate balance of quantity and quality in order for all children to be successful.