Ever felt like the traditional classroom setting is stifling your teaching passion? Meet Michelle Flora, a former kindergarten through second-grade teacher who found a new calling after 32 years in education. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of stepping outside the traditional classroom, and as tutors, we can glean invaluable insights from her journey. Michelle’s transition to working with visually impaired preschoolers not only reignited her passion but also allowed her to make a profound impact on families and children. Her story challenges us to think about how we can foster **number sense and a Growth Mindset in our students, even beyond conventional methods.
The Power of Personal Connection
One of Michelle’s standout strategies was building personal connections with her students. She greeted each child daily with a choice of a hug or handshake, tailoring her approach to their comfort level. This simple act of humanizing the teacher-student relationship can be a game-changer in tutoring. By showing genuine interest in your students’ lives and emotions, you not only boost their confidence but also create a safe space for learning. It’s these personal connections that lay the groundwork for developing essential skills like **number sense**, allowing students to feel supported as they navigate challenging concepts.
2. Flexibility in Teaching: Her transition to working with visually impaired children highlights the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet diverse needs. This flexibility can enhance the development of a growth mindset in students, encouraging them to embrace challenges.
3. Advocacy and Support: As an advocate for her students and their families, Michelle’s role extended beyond teaching. Tutors can also serve as advocates, helping students navigate their educational journeys and supporting their families.
From Classroom to Community: The Impact of a Growth Mindset
Michelle’s move to a nonprofit organization focusing on visually impaired preschoolers was driven by a desire to align her teaching philosophy with her actions. This shift underscores the importance of a **growth mindset** in education. By believing in the potential for growth and change, both in ourselves and our students, we can push the boundaries of what’s possible. Tutors can inspire this mindset by setting challenging yet achievable goals and celebrating every step of progress, reinforcing the idea that abilities can be developed over time.
Balancing Passion and Practicality
The administrative burden in traditional education often detracts from the joy of teaching. Michelle’s experience highlights the need for tutors to find a balance between passion and practicality. By focusing on what truly matters—connecting with students and fostering their growth—we can maintain our enthusiasm and effectiveness. This balance is crucial for nurturing **number sense**, as it allows us to tailor our approach to each student’s needs without getting bogged down by unnecessary tasks.
I always tried to have that personal connection with the class and with the students when I was teaching.
Embracing Neuroplasticity and Change
Michelle’s journey is a powerful reminder of the brain’s ability to adapt and grow, a concept known as neuroplasticity. This principle is vital for tutors to embrace, as it challenges the notion that learning disabilities are fixed. By understanding that brains can change and grow throughout a lifetime, we can encourage our students to view challenges as opportunities for development. This perspective is essential for fostering a **growth mindset**, helping students to see their potential for improvement and success.
I knew all those things added together told me you’d have to do something different now.
Empowering Students and Families
Michelle’s work with visually impaired children and their families showcases the profound impact tutors can have beyond the classroom. By advocating for students and supporting their families, we can help them navigate the educational system and achieve their goals. This holistic approach not only enhances learning outcomes but also builds a supportive community around each student. As tutors, we can empower our students by teaching them essential skills like **number sense** and fostering a **growth mindset**, ensuring they feel equipped to tackle any challenge.
The villain in this story is the belief that our roles as educators are confined to the classroom and that learning disabilities are insurmountable barriers. By embracing the lessons from Michelle’s journey, we can break free from these limitations and truly transform the lives of our students. Join the Learning Success affiliate program to enhance your tutoring services and boost your income while helping your students overcome learning challenges.
Author: Laura Lurns
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