The Invisible Work Making Progress Visible.
Recall that sentimental vibe towards a teacher who really ‘got’ you. The younger version of yourself felt highly justified that ‘Mr White really is an awesome teacher’. The how and why wasn’t so easily described, but that is the essence of a good educator.
Looking back reminds adults that their favourite teachers likely spent energy to embed an emotionally safe space surrounding various classroom relationships. This energy is what captures Relational Pedagogy (RP). It can sound like a mouthful, but it is something everyone (one hopes) has experienced at times throughout their education.
The prioritisation of a genuine connection between educator and student can, and should, also be extended to the relationship between school and home. Starting the new school year is an especially pertinent time to slow down and prioritise these meaningful interactions. Such relationships can secure young people’s independent drive (child agency) which in turn, launches developmental outcomes to the top shelf.
So, what does RP matter to you? And how do you find it?
For Teachers
Establish a tone with students that shows you know their personality
Provide opportunities for reciprocal dialogue about reading with families
Value the long game by securing a foundation for each individual student
For Parents & Caregivers
Connect the child’s reading material to personal family experiences
Find out what the child likes about their teacher
Make sure your child knows you have a connection to their classroom educators
No matter your role, use that invisible magic to visibly boost a kiddo’s reading. These simple ideas can nurture exchanges which propel children towards opening their own doors to new knowledge, skills and opportunities.
Want to read more on Relational Pedagogy?
Article Lucas, Freya, published February 5th, 2025, https://thesector.com.au/2025/02/05/the-new-year-is-an-ideal-time-for-focusing-on-relational-pedagogy-acecqa-says/
Summary Relational Pedagogy, Melbourne School of Design, accessed February 14th 2025, https://msd.unimelb.edu.au/belt/quality/pedagogy/inclusive-teaching/inclusivity-in-tl/relate
Research Paper Andrews, R., & Van Bergen, P. (2022). Relational pedagogies. In H. Montgomery (Ed.), Oxford bibliographies: childhood studies (Oxford Bibliographies). Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/OBO/9780199791231-0246
