JustAGuyinHK

The students came into the classroom as expected. They lined up outside the class and marched in groups except him. He ran in as fast as he could and started spinning around. I wasn't bothered, but the other teacher was trying to 'control him.' It was no use. I let him do as he pleased but gently tried to ask him if he would want to sit down and relax a bit. He grunted and let him be.

I am an English Teacher, and most of my lessons are taught by a local Chinese Teacher. I have been doing this for several years and know the ebbs and flows of how to teach here in Hong Kong. I will do everything in some classes while the local teacher will manage the class. In rare classes, we co-teach and finish each other's sentences. Either way, the needs of the students are met. When there is an SEN student, I tend to be more understanding with my background as an SEN student and my experiences working with students with challenges.

It was the first time it didn't work, and I was at a loss. The student didn't understand the need to sit still. The student didn't understand the importance of not bothering others. The other students were getting annoyed as the student would talk, touch and bother the other students. The local teacher tried to control. I tried to control a bit until I saw how all our energy was going to this boy instead of the class. The class's needs were not being met. It was not helpful.

I asked for help and was given suggestions, such as building a relationship outside the class. I am already doing that. Maybe I could use a reward system, which is already being used. We could place him in an area where he won't be a bother – it has already been done.

In previous schools, students with significant issues would be supported by a family member in the classroom. I have had mothers, aunts, and grandparents sit with students to help soothe their transition into school. Over time, the students would get better and start learning. I could see progress, and it was a wonderful thing. My fear is I won’t see it with this student.

A suggestion is to ignore the child. That hurts the most as it goes against everything about me.

I don’t know what to do and feel frustrated.