Grasping Those "Teachable Moments"

Have you ever had a time when a question was asked or a statement was made and everyone seemed to stop and think? This is what we have come to call a "teachable moment," that time when students are ripe for learning.

Teachable moments occur when someone asks a question, asks for help, has a need or is attempting to solve a problem. Many times a teachable moment will take the form of something that is not directly related to the lesson itself; it may even be way off the subject. Recognizing the situation as an opportunity rather than an interruption is an important part of making use of a teachable moment.

What to say when the teachable moment arises should be guided by the Holy Spirit working through us, our knowledge of God’s Word and our love for our students. But remember, say something! If we fail to respond to a teachable moment, the student will seek help and guidance from another source. Learning to recognize and respond to a teachable moment is an important part of developing our skills as a Sunday school teacher.

(This article appeared in the "Summer, 1992" issue of "The Herald.")