Teaching is about giving people space to be themselves. Our students of age can heal in this space. They can grieve, be anger, laugh, experience, really they must be able to experience whatever is needed in that moment. Let it be about them. Hear them. See them.
They are safe in this space that you cultivate. They are accepted, that means setting the tone with both your words and actions. People must learn that it will be their own creativity that heal their own pain. You can’t heal them. But they can be encouraged by your words and even silent support. You can teach them how to use their own creative energy and faith in God as they know God to heal-by taking the journey towards healing yourself.
See, I see you and I hear you my fellow teachers. The difficulties you help others work through are the same ones you may also struggle with. This makes you authentic.
When a student is difficult remember their behavior indicates they need the class more than most. Say to silently to yourself about this student “You have a beautiful soul, I respect you. I understand you.” This will depersonalize their behavior from the human being that is calling out. Upon doing so, you will intuitively find a solution to dealing with them in a way that honors your self respect, their respect, and the other students in the class.
And just so you know. You matter. Walk in with your head up high, smiling with the love and joy that radiates within. You have the grace to turn everyone of your life lessons into a lesson for your students. There is nothing that you go through that is wasted. The bigger the obstacle, abuse, pain, the greater the lesson.