They'll remember how you made them feel.
In this episode
Jane Newman talks with Christine Duffield about the power of relationships in education and the lasting impact adults can have on young people.
They explore:
The foundation of influence: Why building a relationship is essential if we want to influence someone.
Getting to know teenagers: How asking questions, remembering details and taking an interest in what matters to young people can build genuine connection.
Looking beyond behaviour: Why connection can be more effective than constantly correcting, directing or commanding students.
Creating a sense of safety: How young people open up when they feel that someone genuinely cares about who they are.
The cost of constant busyness: How competing demands, meetings and administrative tasks can leave less time for the relationships that support learning.
Relationships between colleagues: Why connection among staff matters just as much as connection with students.
The teachers we remember: Why the educators who made us feel seen and valued often leave the strongest impression.
Making time to connect: How investing in relationships early can help create a stronger classroom community and make later conversations about behaviour easier.
About Christine Duffield
Christine is a retired educator with 45 years of teaching experience, including extensive work with high school students. Her approach is grounded in the importance of relationships, genuine interest and understanding the person beyond the behaviour.