The DEAR REEL Model: Developing Connections
- REEL Team
- Apr 29
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Download our whitepaper to learn more about each lens of the DEAR REEL model, including an overview and definitions; personal stories and examples; suggested articles, books, blog posts, podcasts and videos; and additional online resources. We also include detailed lists of practical suggestions by grade level for elementary, middle, and high school.
Read the transcript here
Did you know that having a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and valued is critical to the success of neurodivergent students? When connections are developed in the classroom, neurodivergent students feel psychologically safe, enabling them to participate fully, ask for support, and take risks to learn and grow.
What does it mean to “Develop Connection”? It means intentionally creating a culture of belonging where students feel valued and understood. When connections are built intentionally, students are more likely to engage in the learning process joyfully. Connection in the classroom can lead to increased motivation and engagement and, ultimately, academic success.
Developing connection relies on a mindset of curiosity about all students, but especially those who are neurodivergent. Educators who prioritize connection:
Support students through a neurodiversity-affirming lens
Are curious and try new strategies
Are mindful about their approachability
Center student interest & identity
Teachers can start by asking themselves, “How does this kid’s battery work? What charges them up? What drains them? What sustains them?”
There are many potential strategies to develop connection with students that can be adapted to meet developmental needs at every grade level. Examples include attending school-wide activities to get to know students outside of the academic environment; modeling mistake-making so students know that mistakes are a natural part of learning and growing; intentionally getting to know students using purposeful activities; and creating time for check-ins with struggling students to connect authentically and positively.
Connection-building strengthens trust and belonging at every stage. Neurodiversity-affirming connections are developed by fostering curiosity and understanding, encouraging honest conversations, nurturing peer relationships, and creating welcoming spaces for all learners.
By developing connections with their students, educators lay the groundwork for joyful learning, mutual respect, and authentic engagement in the classroom—making it a place where everyone thrives.
