Hey, teacher, leave them ‘six-seven’ kids alone | Letters

Alexsandro Pinzon thinks playfulness and shared silliness are essential parts of human interaction and growth. Plus letters from Mike Hine, Torran Turner and Ted WatsonI respectfully disagree with the suggestion that the use of “six-seven” represents a decline in logic or understanding among pupils (Letters, 29 December). From a developmental perspective, this kind of behaviour is a normal and even healthy part of growing up. Children and young people often adopt shared phrases, jokes or nonsensical trends as a way of belonging to a group. The meaning is not always the point; participation is.As a teacher, understanding and acknowledging this behaviour helps me connect with pupils’ lived realities. When students feel seen and understood – rather than dismissed for engaging in harmless trends – trust is built. That sense of connection plays a crucial role in the learning process: pupils are more likely to engage, take risks and respond positively to guidance when they feel their world is recognised within the classroom. Continue reading...