Connect First: Promoting Active Student Engagement

In this episode, Heather and Lathryelle explore High Leverage Practice #18, focusing on strategies to promote active student engagement. They emphasize the importance of building genuine connections with students by understanding their personalities, preferences, and interests, and meeting them where they are. Engagement is framed as a reciprocal relationship rooted in trust, respect, and fun, which supports both academic and social development. The conversation highlights how practitioners can creatively adapt lessons, incorporate play, and balance challenging tasks with enjoyable activities to maintain motivation. Lathryelle also discusses guiding fellow educators to recognize student cues, adjust strategies, and foster a dynamic classroom environment. The episode underscores that meaningful engagement goes beyond task completion—it’s about connection, observation, and cultivating an enjoyable, inclusive learning experience for every student. Listeners will gain practical insights for creating classrooms where students feel seen, valued, and motivated to participate.Explore More with Us inside The TLC Network!Learn more in this episode’s show notes and join a vibrant community of behavior-focused school professionals committed to their professional growth.Join Our NewsletterStay updated with our latest episodes and receive exclusive content every week. Sign up now!Follow Us on Social MediaConnect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for weekly updates and behind-the-scenes content. Tag us @thresholdlearningtlc to engage with us across all platforms!Subscribe to Our PodcastEnjoyed today’s episode? Share it with friends and never miss an episode on your favorite platform: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!Support Our MissionLove what you hear? Support our efforts to empower local schools to support complex youth. Visit TLC Nonprofit to learn more.Send Us Your FeedbackHave questions or ideas for future episodes? Reach out to us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you!