"Teacher, let me help you understand me. . . "

Children's needs are very basic.  When it comes down to it, all they really ask for is to be loved, listened to, and cared for.  As children become students, their needs within the classroom are similar to those in their personal lives, but more centered on their school environment. The text gives a clear lay out of what these needs entail.  If a child were able to verbalize these things, it might sound something like this:

Dear Teacher, 

I know I may be small, but there are a few things that I, too, feel that I deserve.  First of all, I need clear affirmations that I am going to be okay while in your classroom.  I want to know that I am safe, and that you will take care of me as you would your own children.  I want to feel that it matters to you if I succeed or fail, and I would hope that you would do all you could to help me along the way.  I want to feel that you believe in me; that you truly see my potential, as well as all my strengths I currently possess.

Another thing that is important to me is feeling wanted and needed.  There are many contributions to the class that I would like to make, I just hope you are willing to listen and allow me to do so.  I would hate to think that whether I am present or not, it really doesn't matter.

Along with that, I desire to have a sense of power.  Not the kind of power that controls others. The power that helps me feel in control of myself and my environment.  There are so many things I am learning on a daily basis.  I want to know that the concepts you are teaching me, the long hours I am spending at school each day and the homework I am completing each night all have a significant purpose and reason in my life.  

Similar to power, I also yearn for an understanding of purpose to this all.  I want to know the "why's" of everything. Once I understand that these things apply to me, I feel more inclined and desire to continue learning.  I am in the process of growing, after all, and want to make sure I am involved in the most valuable and important things to help me be the person I desire to become someday.

Last of all, I want to be challenged.  I do not want to feel that I am doing the exact same things, day after day.  Give me some variety, please.  Give me different angles and perspectives to view a specific concept.  I cannot grow and thrive if I am not given the opportunities to share my abilities, find ways to exercise my strengths, and learn of things I had no idea I could do.  

Teacher, please give me a chance.  I am worth it.

Love, 

Your student

(Ideas and focus based upon chapter 2)