On September 14, I had the honor of participating in the YES Mentors Training organized by YES Program of Shanghai Roots & Shoots. Although the training lasted only one day, it was highly efficient and practical, opening the door to environmental education in schools for volunteers like us from diverse professional backgrounds but without prior teaching experience.
The training began with interactive comunication games, helping us realize that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about focusing on children’s absorption and interaction. Two Sample Classes”Zero Waste”and “Water Cycle”-—not only showcased how to structure a class but also allowed us to experience the dynamics of teaching in a large-group setting.
Subsequent sessions on the role of a mentor and the sharing of teaching techniques further strengthened our confidence. The most rewarding part was the teaching tips session, which provided "new teachers" with an opportunity to rehearse and experiment boldly.
As a representative of YES Mentors, I also shared my brief teaching experience from the previous semester with everyone. I hope my insights can inspire more YES Mentors to join the volunteer team and share in this joy together.
The entire training was structured, moving from foundational knowledge to demonstration, and finally integrating theory with practice. Each section was interconnected and rich in content. It not only gave us the confidence to teach but also ignited our passion for spreading the seeds of sustainable awareness.