“DING ANAK ngeni aliwa la kumpara iniang ikayu ding magaral. Asno kasias buntuk.”
These are the exact words of my elementary teacher when I had a chance to converse with him in one of the division-based activities I attended. With my experiences as a public elementary teacher, I share the same sentiments with my former adviser.
Maybe one of the reasons is that learners nowadays are exposed to social media where they can download and see anything from good influences to bad. Adding the afternoon and night shows in tv where the common themes are of cruelty, negative behaviors and revenge.
Another common reason is that most children are left alone at home with only house helpers because both parents are out working to provide for their needs. Unlike before where the fathers are the only one working for the family and the mothers stay twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week at home where they got all the time to guide and supervise their children.
I can still recall when I was young, there was a strict time to follow for watching, playing and studying. That I can only play or watch tv after having my advance reading for tomorrow’s lessons, finished my assignments or completed the household chores assigned to me. Life then was so simple but very few children turn into delinquents.
Behavior problems at school are common and they interfere with lessons and disturb other learners. Being aggressive and inattentive are not helpful.
Also, learners nowadays are more expressive with their thoughts and ideas. These should not hinder learning and as teachers, we have to deal with them appropriately. Everything is possible even with the most difficult and stubborn learners.
As teachers, we just need to listen and understand the types of learners we have. Tap their potentials. Make them feel they are important and worthy.
Remember, we do not teach only English, Math, Science and the like but we teach human beings. Human beings who are capable of doing great things when given the right opportunities. Human beings with dreams and aspirations.
We have to extract out from them their best attributes and they will not only be our learners but likewise our partners in achieving our goals.
Prayers, perseverance, patience, understanding, commitment and dedication are no important unless coupled with trust and confidence. These young minds look up to us. Give them all the love, care, trust, and opportunities that they deserve today and we will reap recognition in the future.
BIANCA F. DIMABUYU
SPED Teacher I
Angeles Elementary School
