One of the most popular sections of The First Five, for both teachers and students, is Quick Connects. They’re incredibly user-friendly and packed with visuals our students actually want to engage with. And once students are engaged, we’ve already set the stage for the learning that follows.
Quick Connects create opportunities for nonverbal participation, which helps students feel included without having to step outside their comfort zone. Think pointing to a picture, choosing a corner, or holding up a number. No pressure. No spotlight.
That’s where the real potential lies, especially for our language learners, our introverts, and honestly, the students who just aren’t quite engaged yet. Maybe their attention is still buffering.
Quick Connects allow students to participate at their own pace. And while they’re making a choice or spotting a match, something powerful is happening. They’re noticing, “Other people chose what I chose,” or “Not everyone sees it the same way I do.”
That’s empathy. That’s perspective-taking. Those are essential skills students need opportunities to learn and practice every day.
Don’t let the word “quick” fool you. Quick Connects may be brief, but the impact can be lasting. This might just be your go-to morning move for making connection feel effortless and meaningful.
-Mr. Brian & The Edtomorrow Team