Mar 16, 2011 by Yolanda Fontanez-Coleman | Understanding New Concepts
Have you ever asked yourself will it ever finally click? I’ve worked with kids long enough to know that, yes it will “click” for them…eventually. Kids develop and evolve at their own pace and sometimes different skills take longer to learn than others. It can be frustrating for me as a tutor but I can only imagine my student’s frustration!
Well, today I saw that frustration in one of my student’s eyes and boy did it break my heart! I was working with a small group on a particular math concept. I had reviewed this skill a few times with the group and had tried many different ways of teaching it; manipulatives, games, peer work activities, I even made-up a catchy song. However it was still not clicking for this student. At one point he looked at me and said “ I just can’t get this !” The words were powerful and heart wrenching, however the defeated look in his eyes was even more powerful. I looked at him and said, “maybe not today, but I promise you will get this… I know you are doing your best and I will help you get there!” He gave me the biggest smile and said, “thank you!”
I came home after our session frustrated, but filled with such determination! I thought – I will do my best to help this young student get this concept. I will push myself to find the strategy that will help it all click for him. I know it takes time. I am a patient tutor. I know what it takes, however the pain and frustration this kid feels only fuels my motivation to do my best to help him. I look forward to the day when I see it “click” for him!