Our Teacher’s Role: Observer and Guide

The next article in this series takes a closer look at how a teacher’s observations are one of our most powerful tools. [Click here for the first, introductory article.]

Our Teacher’s Role: Observer and Guide
A teacher’s primary role in a classroom is a guide, but perhaps even more significant is the teacher’s role as observer. Step into the shoes of a child, and you will see little humans trying to make sense of the world, primarily by watching, listening, and repetition of things they think are “the right way” to do something.

How It Works

• Teachers are gathering information on each child, getting to know them well

• Assessments through observation are the best gauge of a child’s progress

• Teachers develop personalized lesson plans for each child based on their strengths and needs

• When children feel seen, heard, and understood, it deepens the connection between teacher and child

“Our teachers find some of the richest teaching moments are situational experiences, by guiding children to discover the correct way to complete a task or approach a skill when they’re actively involved in the task,” according to Kristina Satchell, FPPK’s Director. “This approach works best when teachers step back, watch the dynamics in the room, and step in for teaching moments as they occur in real time.”

First Presbyterian Preschool and Kindergarten is a child-centered, family-driven school located on the beautiful grounds of the First Presbyterian Church in Englewood, New Jersey. Our nurturing program serves children 2 to kindergarten age and is non-sectarian, meaning we do not provide religious instruction.