A learner’s behaviour is only a part of who they are. A child may be known as “the disruptive one”, “the difficult one” or “the one who never listens”. Once these labels take hold, it becomes easy to notice only the behaviour and overlook the child’s strengths, needs and potential.
We should correct inappropriate behaviour where necessary, but we should also be careful not to allow these labels to become a child’s identity.
In the Classroom
• Separate the behaviour from the child.
• Avoid labels such as “lazy”, “naughty” or “difficult”.
• Look for opportunities to notice and praise positive behaviour.
• Give the child opportunities to reset after a difficult moment.
A man was brought before the Prophet ﷺ for drinking alcohol. When one of the Companions cursed him, the Prophet ﷺ said: “Do not curse him, for by Allah, I know that he loves Allah and His Messenger.” (Bukhari)
The Prophet ﷺ did not ignore the wrongdoing, but he didn’t allow the person to be defined by it.
As educators, we too should correct behaviour where necessary, while continuing to recognise the good within the learner.
An Nasihah Publications