Title: “Discussing ‘Kids These Days’ by Jody Carrington – School Story Podcast Transcript”
Transcript:
Spencer Campbell: Welcome to School Story, where we delve into the heart of educational experiences. Today, we discuss “Kids These Days” by Jody Carrington, a book about reaching seemingly unreachable kids and addressing the problems they face.
Stewart Hudnall: Carrington, a child psychologist, writes for educators, administrators, and anyone involved in children’s lives. Her book offers insights into supporting kids through understanding and connection.
Spencer Campbell: I rate this book five stars for its game-changing insights. It not only influenced my professional interactions but also changed how I engage with my own children.
Stewart Hudnall: Agreed. It’s a five-star book. Let’s talk about three actionable items from the book: making eye contact and greeting every student, checking in on students’ emotional states daily, and spending unstructured time with each child.
Spencer Campbell: The book emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation and how adults often expect kids to manage emotions without guidance. It advocates for partnership in helping kids navigate their feelings.
Stewart Hudnall: Carrington points out that it’s not the kids who are the problem, but rather the disconnection between generations. She stresses the importance of secure relationships and understanding the background of each child.
Spencer Campbell: One key aspect is the ‘FEEL’ method: Feed them, show genuine interest, Eye contact and say their name, Leave them never, and Get Down on their level. This approach helps in building rapport and understanding students.
Stewart Hudnall: Another important concept is the Circle of Security, which highlights the need for adults to be a secure base and safe haven for kids. It’s about staying connected and being there for them, even when they push you away.
Spencer Campbell: The book also addresses the challenge of handling conflicts and managing time effectively. It suggests time-blocking and being intentional with meetings to ensure efficiency and connection.
Stewart Hudnall: The final chapter suggests that kids aren’t the main worry; it’s the adults around them. If adults aren’t okay, kids won’t be either. It’s about creating a culture of connection in schools and homes.
Spencer Campbell: In conclusion, “Kids These Days” offers profound insights into dealing with children’s emotional needs and the importance of adult guidance and support. It’s a must-read for anyone involved with kids.
Stewart Hudnall: Next time, we’ll discuss “Think Again” by Adam Grant, which explores the concept of rewiring our minds for different perspectives. Thanks for joining us, and remember to keep reading and exploring.