Communication is Key

Almost everyone has fond memories of show and tell. We had our very first kindergarten show and tell this week and it was a hit. I’ve seen a lot of show and tells in my years of teaching and my favorites are always the ones that let me know a little more about my students. Family pictures, treasured collections, finds from nature, and family pets are just a few of the items we saw this month. The students are excited because they think they are getting a break from their work and they are getting to bring things to school that they normally wouldn’t be allowed to have. But I am excited because through a year’s worth of show and tells I see how much my students are growing in their ability to communicate to an audience. While some children are naturally gifted speakers most tend to get off topic easily or speak too quickly or quietly to hold the interest of their peers. During the first few months I ask them questions to get them to talk meaningfully about their items. Asking these same questions over and over again helps them to know the important information we need to hear. We practice speaking clearly and making eye contact with our audience. The rest of the class has a job too! They must learn to become a good listener. Good communication skills are needed in every aspect of life and Show and Tell is just one of the ways a kindergarten student can learn them!