It’s great when you initiate conversation/interviews, but what about when your students want to come to you? We recommend holding regular office hours. You can hold them early before school starts or in the late afternoon – either way, be available.
Office hours might be more traditional for higher-level students, so if you’re teaching younger learners, let them know they can always come to you during recess or lunch. You’ll be surprised at how many students take advantage of the “open-door policy.” Whether they want to ask you specific questions about an assignment, want to ask about your interests, or simply need a safe haven for five or ten minutes, be there for your students!
Again, if you’re strictly teaching online, have a virtual sign-up sheet available. It’s even better if you can make it so their names remain anonymous because let’s be honest, no student likes admitting they need to chat with the teacher (which we don’t understand; teachers are the best!).