ABSTRACT
A great place to start learning is by creating a classroom community in which students feel welcome and ready to learn. In order for students to feel like they can share their worries and struggles in the classroom, a teacher must create that environment for learning. Teachers often feel that when they are presented with an issue in the classroom, it is their job to conquer it alone, but this need not be the case. Teachers are not counselors, but they do have a responsibility to get to know their students. Until a child feels that the classroom is a safe environment in which to explore new concepts and new ideas, real learning cannot take place. When it comes to addressing the social and emotional needs of learners, there truly is a curriculum connection.
