If one of your students told you that none of the other students liked them, what would you say?

Sample Answer: I would say, “That can be really tough, but did you know that everyone feels as if they don’t fit in at some point in their lives, even adults, including me.  And there are other kids in this very classroom who are going through the same thing.  I know it feels like the end of the world, but this feeling won't last forever. If you ever need to talk, I’m here for you.”  I think that as a teacher, the role that can be taken is to coach and reassure the child. Children who feel like they don’t fit in feel unsafe and vulnerable, and they are often prone to teasing or bullying.  I would make a special effort to include the child in group activities with other students, and to foster group activities whenever possible, fitting the activity to the grade level.

Even the act of positioning the children’s desks so as to encourage interaction between a group of girls or a group of boys can help a child to fit in.  There are lots of ways a teacher can promote friendship among students.

Tip: When hiring an effective teacher, interviewers are looking for teachers who can handle and overcome this all-too-common problem.  Showing that you have thought about this potential issue positions you as a nurturing and caring educator!