About Amber

Amber Patrick is an Elementary Math Specialist, former Instructional Coach, and author of The Alphabet Kinection with over 25 years of experience in education. She is passionate about teaching and learning, and is dedicated to empowering educators and inspiring students to thrive.

Session Information

The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace

The 5 Languages of Appreciation offer valuable insights for building strong, positive relationships in the workplace—essential skills for Instructional Coaches aiming to support and empower teachers. These languages include Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Tangible Gifts, and Physical Touch. Words of Affirmation involve expressing appreciation through verbal recognition, compliments, and encouragement, which can significantly boost morale and motivation. Quality Time focuses on providing genuine attention through meaningful interactions, such as one-on-one meetings or collaborative discussions, showing that their presence and contributions are valued. Acts of Service emphasize supporting colleagues by offering practical help, demonstrating dedication and a willingness to assist in achieving shared goals. Tangible Gifts involve giving thoughtful, personal tokens of appreciation that reflect understanding and recognition of individual preferences. Finally, while Physical Touch is more challenging to apply appropriately in professional settings, simple gestures like a handshake or pat on the back can convey warmth and encouragement when used with sensitivity. By understanding and applying these languages of appreciation, Instructional Coaches can build stronger connections with teachers, making them feel valued, heard, and appreciated. This approach not only improves job satisfaction and motivation but also fosters a more collaborative, trusting, and productive work environment.