Every quarter, my daughter Coco (13) has the chance to earn a “Free Pass” in any subject. The pass simply gets her out of doing any regular assignment. She is only allowed to earn one per subject, per quarter.
How does she earn them? By teaching a lesson in that subject to her six year old sister, Soleil. She actually enjoys teaching and the girls play “school” quite often. I thought this was a nice way to reward her, and also build on the teaching skills she possesses.
It could also be used to encourage a reluctant learner. It has been my experience that kids really start to “get” something when they teach it to someone else. For that matter, so do I!
I used a simple word document to print the passes, but you could easily write them by hand on index cards, or fancy them up. Coco gets the pass, and then she chooses when to use it on any average assignment.
You can print a simple version here: Free pass
Here are some tips I gave Coco:
- You can choose a lesson you are learning, or one from one of her books. Or just something you’d like to teach!
- Keep it age-appropriate.
- Have a plan! Spend a little time preparing!
- Make it interesting and fun!
- No need to be fancy…keep it simple!
- If you need help with ideas, just ask.
Different students might need more information, depending on their interest in teaching. I try to be hands-off during this time unless Coco asks for help. During the lesson, I usually watch and participate as a student if it is needed.
This has not only improved Coco’s teaching skills, it has increased her confidence and Soleil has had lots of fun with it. We’ve all learned new things, too!
Do you get your older kids in on the teaching?
Angela can be found writing at Homegrown Mom.
This post is linked to Works for Me Wednesday.
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Great idea, for the coupon. My 11 year old loves teaching his younger siblings.
.-= Brenda´s last blog ..Letter from a Reader =-.
I am one proud Mama as my son takes the initiative to teach his sister on occasion. I never ask it of him. All that I have ever asked is that we encourage her, especially when she is dealing with something that is really challenging her. It makes him feel important to help her out or share something with her that helps her grasp something better. It is an amazing thing to see!