We hear it almost every day.\u00a0 We hear from visiting therapists, parents, bus drivers, even teachers from other schools; \u201cWhy do they work so well for you?!\u201d\u00a0 The answer is very simple, and it piggybacks right off presuming competence, we expect nothing less from those we serve.<\/p>\n
So often we see others assuming those we serve need things done for them.\u00a0 Or they make excuses for needing to do it because it\u2019s actually easier and faster to just do it for them.\u00a0 The problem is, when you\u2019re willing to do it for them, they will take full advantage \u2013 and who wouldn\u2019t?!\u00a0 These expectations don\u2019t have to be something large \u2013 they can be small everyday activities.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s look at something as mundane as carrying a backpack.\u00a0 So often we have new students who start the day off with mom or dad carrying their backpack inside for them and we have to say, \u201cMom, he is perfectly capable of carrying his own backpack.\u201d\u00a0 We see bus drivers who learn to tell teachers the same thing, \u201cThey don\u2019t carry that for him at Henderson Haven!\u201d\u00a0 Why would something so small be so important?\u00a0 Because it\u2019s only where we start.<\/p>\n
We EXPECT good behavior.\u00a0 We EXPECT work to be finished before play time.\u00a0 We EXPECT others to be treated kindly.\u00a0 And more often than not, we get exactly what we expect.\u00a0 And the truth is, everyone gets exactly what they expect.\u00a0 Am I saying we get what we expect 100% of the time?\u00a0 Of course not!\u00a0 And there\u2019s going to be push back, especially when they\u2019ve never experienced that before.\u00a0 But there\u2019s nothing like a proud look on their face once they realize they can meet the expectations others have for them.<\/p>\n
Too many programs, because they don\u2019t presume any competence, have no expectations \u2013 or the wrong ones \u2013 and therefore fall back on the idea that we must train, not teach.\u00a0 We believe this can be detrimental in the long run.\u00a0 Having appropriate expectations has many positive results that continue throughout their lives:<\/p>\n
Building Confidence<\/em><\/p>\n Setting expectations provides children with a framework for achievement. When kids know what is expected of them, they are more likely to feel confident in their abilities to meet those expectations. This boost in self-confidence can have a significant impact on their overall development.<\/p>\n Encouraging Responsibility<\/em><\/p>\n Expectations teach kids responsibility from an early age. When they understand that certain tasks or goals are expected of them, they learn to take responsibility for their actions and decisions. This early exposure to responsibility can help prepare them for adulthood.<\/p>\n Fostering a Growth Mindset<\/em><\/p>\n Having expectations can encourage a growth mindset in children. They come to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as obstacles. When kids are expected to tackle challenging tasks, they learn to persevere, adapt, and develop problem-solving skills.<\/p>\n Setting Goals and Aspirations<\/em><\/p>\n Expectations serve as benchmarks for achievement. They help children set goals and aspirations for themselves. When kids have clear expectations, they are more likely to strive for success, both academically and in other areas of life.<\/p>\n Developing a Strong Work Ethic<\/em><\/p>\n Expectations instill a strong work ethic in children. When kids are expected to complete their schoolwork, chores, or extracurricular activities, they learn the value of hard work and dedication. These qualities are crucial for success in any endeavor.<\/p>\n Improving Academic Performance<\/em><\/p>\n Having academic expectations can significantly impact a child’s performance in school. When parents and teachers set high standards for academic achievement, children are more likely to put in the effort required to excel in their studies. This, in turn, can lead to better grades and a deeper love of learning.<\/p>\n Encouraging Healthy Competition<\/em><\/p>\n Healthy competition can be a powerful motivator for kids. When they have expectations to meet, they often push themselves to outperform their peers. This friendly competition can spur academic and personal growth.<\/p>\n Enhancing Communication Skills<\/em><\/p>\n Expectations also improve communication skills. Children learn to express their thoughts, ideas, and concerns when they are expected to do so. This ability to communicate effectively is essential for building strong relationships and succeeding in various social contexts.<\/p>\n Preparing for the Real World<\/em><\/p>\n Ultimately, setting expectations for children prepares them for the real world. In adulthood, individuals are expected to meet various responsibilities, both personal and professional. By instilling a sense of responsibility and a strong work ethic in children from a young age, we equip them with the tools they need to thrive in the adult world.<\/p>\n It’s clear that having expectations can greatly benefit kids. Expectations provide structure, foster growth, and prepare children for the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood. When set thoughtfully and with consideration for a child’s unique abilities and needs, expectations can be a powerful tool for nurturing well-rounded, confident, and successful individuals.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" We hear it almost every day.\u00a0 We hear from visiting therapists, parents, bus drivers, even teachers from other schools; \u201cWhy do they work so well for you?!\u201d\u00a0 The answer is very simple, and it piggybacks right off presuming competence, we expect nothing less from those we serve. So often we […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":824,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n