A new year is the best time to reset and refresh your habits. When it comes to mentoring, it’s important to consider resetting as well. There is no better time to think of some new habits to incorporate or old habits that need to change!
Let’s dive into these tangible ideas to reset your mentoring hour.
Make Sure that Your Student Has a “Choice Moment”
Students are given directions all day long. They often lack personal choice in the classroom. It’s important that they follow their teacher’s guidance, but by the time they get to the mentoring hour, they likely desire the ability to make a choice. This is your reminder to give them that choice!
Here are a few ways that students can lead your time together:
- Choosing a game
- Selecting a book
- Determining inside or outside (if your program allows for outside time)
- Picking where to sit
Choice gives students ownership and reinforces that their voice matters.
End with a “High Point”
After spending an hour together, reflect on that time and share a highlight. Close every session by naming something positive:
- “What was your favorite part of today?”
- “What made you smile this hour?”
- “What’s one thing you want to do again next time?”
Ending on a positive note leaves students feeling seen and valued long after you leave. It also creates a simple recap that your student can repeat to friends, teachers, and family members if they ask about mentoring.
Consider Conversation Cards
If you’ve noticed yourself getting into a rut when it comes to conversation with your student, consider creating a jar or stack of cards with age-appropriate prompts:
- “If you could learn any skill, what would it be?”
- “What’s something you’re really good at?”
- “Who is someone you admire?”
- “What are you enjoying the most about school?”
This keeps the conversation fresh and helps move beyond surface-level talk. Take a look at the conversation cards activity in the portal!
Notice the Growth
Throughout this year, make sure that you are recognizing the growth that is apparent within your student. If you notice it, speak it out loud to them!
- “Do you remember when this was hard for you?”
- “I’ve noticed how much more confident you are.”
- “You’ve really grown in this area.”
- “Last year you weren’t sure how to do that and this year you are!”
Students often don’t recognize their own progress. As a mentor, you get to help name that progress.
Add Movement into the Hour
Are there little ways to incorporate movement into your time together? If your school allows, not every session needs to be seated the whole time.
- Walk the hallway
- Do a short stretch
- Play a standing game
- Utilize the gym (if available)
Movement can help regulate emotions and keep students engaged, especially during a long school day with little movement.
Introduce a Gratitude Habit
A great new habit to include in the mentoring hour is practicing gratitude. There is so much to be thankful for!
- Share one place you’re thankful for
- Name one person who helped you recently
- State one or two positive things that happened at school today
Gratitude builds emotional awareness and encourages positive reflection on a regular basis. Check out the gratitude resources in the mentor portal.
Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing
What is the most powerful habit to keep up this year? Consistency. Make it a priority to show up on time each week, excited to invest in your student!
New habits are great, but the most life-changing habit is simply showing up.
Learn More About Kids Hope USA
If you are not familiar with Kids Hope USA and the mentoring program, this is a great opportunity to get to know us more! Visit our website, connect with us on social media, and contact us to learn how to get involved.