Walk quietly back toward Helen’s desk. In a spirit of comradeship, make
comments to several children about their work on the way to Helen.
Pause near Helen and show your friendliness by smilingly commending her
work. Then center your attention upon the paper and putting out your
hand, say to her so quietly that no one else hears, “Kindly hand me that
paper.” Expect her to do so. There is little doubt but that she will
hand you the paper with a smile. If she does not do so, tell her quietly
that you will talk with her another time and rest the case there for the
present. On your way back to your desk speak to one or two other
children kindly about their work.
Make Helen your special study. See how she responds to the requests of
other children at play. For some days be perfectly sure that your
commands deal chiefly with acts which she wants to perform. For example,
“Helen, collect the pencils.” “Helen, tell which story you like best.”
“Helen, show Johnnie what page the lesson is on,” etc. Build up in her
mind the fact that you are always her friend. Before many days have gone
by she will obey any command you make.