Skilled facilitators can ensure that every child participates fully, even the shy and disengaged. Here are a few suggestions:
Rephrase your questions several times to ensure everyone understands.
Use clear language that children understand; avoid jargon.
Take responsibility for clear communication (e.g. ask “Did I say that clearly?” rather than “Did you understand?”).
Ask open questions that cannot be answered with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ (e.g. not “Did you enjoy that activity?” but “How did you feel about that activity?”).
Establish ground rules for discussion (e.g. no interrupting but raising hands to speak).
Draw out silent children, asking them to report or share experiences, but never put pressure on a child to participate.
Create different roles for group work to ensure equal involvement (e.g. timekeeper, materials manager, reporter, scribe).
Emphasise that every child has something to contribute to the activity.
Summarise regularly or ask children to do this.
Explain an activity clearly before beginning so that children know what to expect.
Connect present activity to previous and future activities.
Do not expose any child to ridicule, embarrassment or repercussions at home.
When possible, seek the support of other facilitators, thus increasing the chance for children to connect with facilitators and be exposed to different teaching and learning styles.
Acknowledge that no facilitator can control everything that happens or be aware of every child at every moment. Just be attentive without being over-concerned.
