How to Teach with 52 Essential Card Series
💡 Download the visual tip sheet below.
Keep an Open Mind
Create a safe space by leaving your assumptions and judgments at the door.
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Be Present
Refrain from checking your phone/devices.
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Be Respectful
Use a welcoming tone of voice. Pay attention to your choice of words and your nonverbal body language.
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Role Model
Demonstrate how to respond to a prompt. Role modeling is sharing your thoughts and demonstrating through your behaviors.
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Don't Pressure Kids
Follow their lead. Skip a card if needed or set it aside and try later.
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WAIT
Be okay with silence. These cards require time for children to think, process, and brainstorm. Avoid interrupting/redirecting the response before someone finishes responding.
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Offer Suggestions without Discounting Responses
Frame your suggestions to encourage children to expand on their responses without feeling like they are wrong or inadequate. Say:
"I wonder ________." or "Thanks for sharing your response, I never thought of it like that! What if you _________?"
Recognize there are multiple "right answers"
The 52 Essential cards empower children and adults to understand that life is not a multiple-choice test. There are multiple ways to respond to a prompt based on a person's skills, experiences, and development.
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Paraphrase What You're Hearing
From time to time, paraphrasing your child/student's response will help prevent misunderstandings. Ask clarifying questions.
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Acknowledge the Other Person's Feelings and Reality
A child's feelings and perspectives are their reality, even if you disagree.
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Recognize Progress
Praise your child/student when they answer challenging questions and when they take time to think through the answers to their responses. Point out their developing strengths and application of new skills.
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Keep the Door Open
Have a conversation about how these discussions don't need to end when you put the cards away. Encourage children/students to continue the discussion or come up with new questions.