Teens, you either get them or you dont.
Being an educator I want to share some of the things that I believed helped me to established a functional relationship with my teen students.
Know their names!
They feel respected and ultimately reciprocate that respect back to you when you take the time to learn who they are. Yes it is hard, being a public HS teacher for math, one year I had 177 students, I know yikes! However I was able to use syllabus week (usually 1st week of school) to have them to create name tents, decorate and give me the correct pronunciation. Everyday when they entered the classroom I would greet them by their name. Usually it takes me 2 weeks to learn them all. By going through this it humbles me to understand how it feels like when I dont “get” something quickly and the feelings that come with asking for help. The students seeing me try models to them that they need to try to. We are all learning together.
Get to Know Me Activity
I bring it back to elementary school and actually pass out an get to know me activity that helps me to see the mindset and goals of the students I have. This will allow me to understand the classroom culture and dynamic that will form and prep me with how I should address it.
Show Up to the School activities!
This is one of those cliche sayings where you probably already responded by saying “I know, I know” however I experienced a new level of respect and collaboration when students saw that I went to the events, and games (even the away ones). I became more apart of the school community as opposed to the satellite teacher who doesn’t exist outside their classroom. Also you will be able to see what they prioritize and maybe this will address and behavior or engagement level they have in your class.
Be a passionate and sincere teacher!
If you don’t feel comfortable socializing, basically teach the content. There were often times classes I couldn’t connect with on a more relaxed level however I found that students appreciate my passion for teaching the subjects and willingness to help them understand. Its ok if you dont connect with the classroom culture or understand all the personalities that walk through your door; if your love for teaching and helping students is the only thing they see about you than that is more than enough.
Summary
Overall teens can be intimidating and uncomfortable if you never worked with them before; however that doesnt mean you arent cut out to teach them. Teens need to see positive role models in their community because you never know what perspective or opportunity you bring into their life just by being present.
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