There are many ways how to create a positive verbal classroom for children. For this assignment I choose the age group pre – k (4 to 5 years old). A positive verbal environment is one, in which children feel valued and appreciated. Adults create a positive verbal environment by interacting with children in ways that make the children feel valued and special. .
It is very important that a teacher knows and respects each child as an individual. I personally would greet each child every day and address him her by their name. Another big factor is to meet children with smiles, warm eye contact and supportive touches. Knowing the interests of each child can help me thinking of conversation openers and suggesting opportunities for participation in classroom activities. I would also use the children's interest as a basis for conversation and consider their interest when planning activities, centers, projects, themes and materials such as books. Showing interest in children and their activities can be from big importance as well. Me, being the teacher in the classroom, I would be actively engaged with the kids and I would be with them on their level, kneeling, squatting or sitting, so that my eyes are leveled with the children's eyes. When giving directions or guidance, I would move near the child rather can call out or yelling across a room. Another strategy that shows children that I am interested is using behavior reflections that describe some aspect of a child's behavior. These statements are directed to the child. Behavior reflections use only nonjudgmental vocabulary as opposed to judgments, whether positive or negative. I could also support creativity by making encouraging statements and reflections, such as "You are really working hard." Listens actively to children. Children feel valued when teachers' pay attention to what they are saying. In positive verbal environments, teachers are patient and polite when speaking to the children, parents, and each other.