Teaching whole body listening is an essential skill for kids to learn, especially in a classroom setting. Whole body listening is not just about hearing with your ears, but also about paying attention with your eyes, body, and brain. When kids practice whole body listening, they can better understand and follow instructions, participate in class discussions, and develop stronger relationships with their peers and teachers. In this article, we will explore six ways to teach whole body listening with free printables to help make the learning process fun and engaging.
What is Whole Body Listening?
Whole body listening is the ability to use all of your senses to focus on the speaker and understand the message being conveyed. It involves maintaining eye contact, facing the speaker, keeping your body still and calm, and avoiding distractions. When kids practice whole body listening, they can better absorb information, ask clarifying questions, and show respect for the speaker.
Why is Whole Body Listening Important?
Whole body listening is essential for kids to learn because it helps them develop better communication skills, build stronger relationships, and achieve academic success. When kids practice whole body listening, they can:
- Better understand instructions and follow directions
- Participate more effectively in class discussions and group work
- Develop stronger relationships with their peers and teachers
- Improve their focus and attention span
- Reduce distractions and minimize misbehavior
6 Ways to Teach Whole Body Listening with Free Printables
Here are six ways to teach whole body listening with free printables:
1. Create a Whole Body Listening Poster
Create a poster that illustrates the different components of whole body listening, such as maintaining eye contact, facing the speaker, and keeping your body still. You can use free printables like the one below to create a visual reminder for your kids.
2. Practice Whole Body Listening with Role-Playing
Role-playing is an effective way to teach whole body listening. Create scenarios where kids have to practice whole body listening, such as listening to a teacher give instructions or participating in a class discussion. You can use free printables like role-playing cards or scenario sheets to guide the activity.
3. Create a Whole Body Listening Chart
Create a chart that outlines the different components of whole body listening. Kids can use this chart to self-assess their listening skills and track their progress over time. You can use free printables like the one below to create a chart.
4. Teach Whole Body Listening with Music and Movement
Teach whole body listening through music and movement activities. For example, you can play a song and ask kids to freeze in place when the music stops. This activity helps kids practice self-control and focus. You can use free printables like the one below to create a music and movement activity.
5. Create a Whole Body Listening Story
Create a story that illustrates the importance of whole body listening. Kids can read the story and reflect on how the characters in the story practiced whole body listening. You can use free printables like the one below to create a story.
6. Practice Whole Body Listening with Games
Practice whole body listening with games that require kids to focus and follow instructions. For example, you can play a game of "Simon Says" or "Red Light, Green Light". These games help kids practice self-control and focus. You can use free printables like the one below to create a game.
Conclusion
Teaching whole body listening is an essential skill for kids to learn. By using the six methods outlined above, you can help your kids develop better communication skills, build stronger relationships, and achieve academic success. Remember to make the learning process fun and engaging by using free printables and incorporating games and activities into your lessons.
What is whole body listening?
+Whole body listening is the ability to use all of your senses to focus on the speaker and understand the message being conveyed.
Why is whole body listening important?
+Whole body listening is essential for kids to learn because it helps them develop better communication skills, build stronger relationships, and achieve academic success.
How can I teach whole body listening to my kids?
+You can teach whole body listening by creating a whole body listening poster, practicing whole body listening with role-playing, creating a whole body listening chart, teaching whole body listening with music and movement, creating a whole body listening story, and practicing whole body listening with games.