Ten Hats of Effective Sunday School Teachers

Effective Sunday school teachers must be prepared to wear many hats! Here are ten that should be part of every teacher's wardrobe. Try a few of these on for size and evaluate just how well you are doing in the following roles!

• Learner— spends time in careful lesson preparation and has an eager attitude toward acquiring deeper Biblical knowledge on a personal level.
  
• Gatekeeper —makes sure that everyone has an opportunity to participate and that no one student monopolizes the conversation or activity.
  
• Encourager —offers words of praise, support, and friendship to those in attendance; creates a non-threatening atmosphere so that each student feels comfortable taking part in the class.
  
• Reflector —summarizes the feelings, findings, ideas, and reactions of the group.
  
• Listener —pays careful attention to what the students are saying and responds appropriately, letting them know that their insights and observations are an important part of each class session.
  
• Clarifier — explains lesson content that may be unfamiliar to the students, and strives to make each lesson applicable to daily life. Asks questions to make sure group members understand the concepts being presented.
  
• Follower —allows the group to make decisions and offer ideas.
  
• Standard setter —provides a consistent role model in all aspects of Christian conduct; is supportive and enthusiastic about the doctrines and guidelines established in God's Word.
  
• Mediator — brings perspective and resolves differences of opinion between class members and helps the participants move toward mutual understanding and respect.
  
• Tension reducer — reminds members of class guidelines that keep the group functioning at its best; applies good humor and a smile to stressful situations.