Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

How should a teacher respond to signs of distress in a child during group activities?

1. Ignore the behavior to prevent embarrassment

2. Address the child privately after the activity

3. Encourage the child to express feelings openly in the group

4. Redirect the child to another activity immediately

The correct answer is: Address the child privately after the activity

Addressing the child privately after the activity is a thoughtful approach to responding to signs of distress. This strategy allows the child to feel safe and less exposed, which can be crucial for their emotional well-being. By waiting until after the group activity, the teacher minimizes the risk of further embarrassment or anxiety. It also emphasizes the importance of individual attention, showing the child that their feelings are valid and worthy of discussion in a setting that feels secure. In addition, this method provides an opportunity for the teacher to engage in a more in-depth conversation. It allows the teacher to ask open-ended questions, listen actively to the child's concerns, and collaboratively explore solutions. This can help the child feel more understood and supported, fostering a stronger teacher-student relationship and promoting social-emotional development. The other options might not address the child's needs effectively. Ignoring the behavior could lead to the child feeling dismissed or unnoticed, while encouraging expression in the group setting might put the child on the spot and exacerbate their distress. Redirecting to another activity may distract temporarily but doesn't address the underlying feelings, potentially leading to unresolved issues.