Take time to listen when your students express concerns, questions and experiences. Letting your students' ideas, joys and worries truly register and make an impact on you can build a strong rapport that will extend beyond class time. Listening also gives you an opportunity to learn about your students' lives and interests, and to gain insight into what is and is not working in your teaching. When a student approaches you to talk, physically put away or turn aside from your work to signal your undivided attention.
Although rules may seem like a negative or domineering part of classroom life, when used properly they can actually create a psychologically safe and healthy environment that will help your students thrive. Eliminate arbitrary rules, and work to minimize and simplify the rules you set. Build trust by respectfully enforcing rules, refusing to punish children for nondefiant actions and apologizing openly if you make an error in judgment. Wherever possible, follow the rules you set for your students.
Keeping your commitments demonstrates to your students that you are a trustworthy person and gives them more reason to engage with you personally and academically. If you make a promise, keep it, no matter what you have to do or give up. When a student tells you about a problem, success or upcoming event, follow up by asking about it a few days later.
Noticing what is important to others may not come naturally, but it is a skill that can be learned and is often critical to showing students that you care about them. In the classroom, affirm good behavior and sincere efforts. Beyond class interactions, take the time to notice and acknowledge important moments in your students' lives. Write notes. Remember birthdays. Team up with parents to show each student what you value about him or to participate in events she considers important.