I am very patient with children, that doesn’t mean that I always have a smile on my face. I just know that if they see me sweating, they’re more likely to continue doing what is bothering me.
I work in classrooms with a wide spectrum of behaviors, from very calm children to children with developmental delays and behavioral disorders. Persistence and consistency is key, regardless of the child’s temperament.
1. Say what you mean, and mean what you say. Do not repeat yourself too much, if it’s time to clean up or sit down, say it once and loud enough that everyone hears it. Some will follow directions, some won’t. For the children who won’t, go up to them and squat down at eye-level and remind them of what was said. If that doesn’t work, I always ask “Do you need help?” and physically (respectfully) guide them in the right direction.
2. If the whole classroom is running rampant, sometimes they just need a quick sensory change. I like to cut the lights off and firmly say “1 2 3, eyes on me” and instruct everyone to put their hands on their heads. Then I will gently ask them to stop what they are doing, and make their way to whatever I am asking. I don’t turn the lights back on until everyone has begun moving in the right direction.
3. Be sure to reward the children who are following directions, because it encourages other children to do the same. This doesn’t have to be a sticker or a treat. A simple “Thank you so much for following directions” or a praise like “Wow I see [child’s name] is doing a great job cleaning.”
4. I don’t like to use the word “No” in my classroom. If a child is doing something they shouldn’t be, I just ask them questions: “Is that a good choice?” “Do we stand on tables?” “How should we talk to our friends / are you using kind words?” They are autonomous beings, they can theoretically do whatever they want so telling them “No” just establishes ruling over them. Instead we should remind them of appropriate decision making.
5. Don’t be afraid to talk to other teachers about how they operate their classroom! Also, asking the children’s parents about what works for them at home is useful. You want the child to have a balanced and consistent life between home and school in all areas, including discipline.
