I have just returned from a trip to Thailand to conduct a seminar for about 120 teachers from international schools in Bangkok. One of the things that was discussed at the seminar was what could be done to create a safe environment to encourage thinking. We discussed a whole lot of things we could do but I forgot to mention something that I work hard at doing whenever I conduct a seminar or workshop, that is, I make a point to always smile. Remember that old song that was written with music by none other than the great Charlie Chaplin himself?

Smile though your heart is aching; Smile even though it’s breaking…

(Lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons. Music written by Charlie Chaplin, 1936)

A smile is actually a very important aspect of a teacher’s teaching repertoire. If there is one thing that can make a teacher appear friendly and approachable, it is his smile. Students like all of us feel comfortable when the person in a position of authority is able to smile when they interact. The learning that takes place depends a lot on the student’s perception of his teacher. If it is positive, the student is more likely to want to be more attentive to the teacher. This helps the teacher to  teach. Making a conscious effort should be part of the the teacher’s standard operating procedure. The teacher must tell himself to smile before he enters the classroom and meet his charges. It does not matter what problems the teacher may face. It does not matter what is going on his mind but the moment he enters the class he must smile. The students should not be subjected to the teacher’s mood swings. A consistently kind and pleasant countenance helps the teacher build bridges not only to their students’ hearts but also to their minds.  As the song goes:

Light up your face with gladness, Hide every trace of sadness.

Although a tear may be ever so near,

That’s the time you must keep on trying…If you just smile…