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My thanks to all of those who took the time to answer the survey question
in the September edition of the Catholic
Educators News. Because of the large number of responses I
can only provide highlights from these responses. I have listed these
highlights by recurring themes:
Be Prepared and Structured
I would suggest to read, read, READ everything related to the topics
on your subjects for the year....
...have a plan....a beginning, middle, and an end to a lesson. And
then have a back up in case something falls through...
Have a discipline structure in your classroom and let them know it..
Plan for the unexpected ... always have a backup plan for the days
that don't go as planned. Be flexible. Do YOUR homework...Stay on
subject. Constantly hand out praise. Have snacks on hand
Be organized but not rigid. If you feel inspired by the spirit go
with it. Some of my best lessons were only partially planned. Study
scripture and pray.
...always be open for teachable moments.
Make it Intreresting
I would make the class interesting with different ativities. Interact
with the children involve them in different lessons. Play games that
have to do with the theme. Reward them for their efforts. Make them
feel good about themselves. Develop the lessons according to their
age/skills. I give them attendance awards every month...
...be creative - don't just follow the book, per se, but think about
relating to the kids at their level...
Be open to bringing in props!... Read Bible stories.
Once in a while, do what the kids want to do. Make it fun...
Respect and Love the Children
Take a survey of the kids ideas on how they can better learn their
Catholic Faith...
Always remember, even if the children are acting up, that God is
in them. In fact, it really doesn't hurt to remind them of that fact!
...it's the little things and words of kindness and care that make
a difference.
Children are so open and honest, it's a great feeling to share our
faith with them.
Don't be quick to judge. There are lots of kids that have troubles
at home.
Always thank the students for coming and allowing you to share in
this short time in their lives. They could always make the decision
to not come, so it is up to you to make them feel as special as they
are. We are blessed to spend this time with them and see them grow
in their faith.
Be in the room, at the door waiting for your students, letting them
know you are happy to see them and that they are important. Learn
their names; 'Call them by name."
Be a Witness
...teach it like you believe it
Be prepared and ready to share your own faith experiences with the
kids.
Try to remember first of all that you are only one part of the catechetical
enterprise of the Church. Remember too that being comfortable with
your own faith and knowing the content of that faith is important.
Who you are and what you believe is an important part of the message
you will deliver. Finally, remember that you represent the Church.
As such you have a duty to faithfully transmit the authentic teachings
of that Church. It probably does not seem like you have the time but
prayer and reflection are important things to do in your situation.
Pray, prepare, & teach by example.
As a catechist you have to know Christ and make him known.
Believe that you are called to serve Jesus Christ by teaching children
about him and passing on the faith to future generations of Catholics...
Use your own life experiences.
Teach
I always try to focus on the basic principle of treating others as
we would like to be treated.
Take the formation of children seriously. It is NOT a part-time job.
Pray and Count on God
Most importantly, try not to get discouraged. Your touching their
lives even when you don't think you are.
Don't be afraid. Have faith in the Spirit and He will direct you.
...yours is a most challenging vocation, but "with God all things
are possible."
Pray for your classes... Pray with your classes.
Pray for your students by name every day for the rest of your life.
Try to be put yourself in his presence during the week, and HE will
bring all help to you if you need it.
Pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom. Be patient, Trust
in the Lord, Ask for help, and know that you are doing God's work.
Above all you do not expect yourself to be perfect at all times,
there is only one who is and we work for Him.
Pray!!! Pray for yourself before you prepare your lesson, Pray for
the children you teach, Pray before you begin your class, Pray after
you finish the class, etc. God will guide you, if you just ask!!
Give yourself to Him - and be amazed at what He will do through you,
and for you!
Have Fun Teaching
...enjoy what you do and enjoy the children.
...have a good sense of humor, be the authority, have fun teaching.
Make it fun.
Ask for Help
...don't be afraid to ask for help!!
Stay in touch with the parents. Get the parents involved.
Talk to the parents -- find those who are actively living their faith
(either through the Church, working at the parochial school or homeschooling)
and ask their help and advice. Don't overlook this very real resource!
Use your DRE as a resource person.
Contact your Diocesan Media Center or Library and see what resources
and help are available to you from them. Many are affiliated with
NACMP (National Assoc. of Catechetical Media Professionals) who work
together to help Catechists and DRE's to use Media well. Also, if
possible attend a National Conference like NCCL!
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