Classroom mangement is not tips and tricks, it's how we relate, speak, encourage, guide, and care. -Liz's Early Learning Spot
Classroom Management Strategies Using PBIS
Effective classroom management is essential for fostering a positive learning environment that encourages student success. Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) provides a proactive and evidence-based approach to managing student behavior by emphasizing positive reinforcement, clear expectations, and data-driven decision-making (Sugai & Horner, 2006). Below are research-backed strategies that educators can implement in the classroom to promote positive behavior.
1. Establish Clear Expectations
Setting and communicating clear behavior expectations helps students understand what is required of them in the classroom.
Define Simple and Positive Rules – Instead of saying “No talking,” use “Raise your hand before speaking.”
Post Expectations in the Classroom – Create a behavior chart with rules such as:
Be Respectful (Listen when others are speaking.)
Be Responsible (Complete assignments on time.)
Be Safe (Walk in the classroom.)
Tip: Teach and model these expectations at the beginning of the school year and review them regularly (Bradshaw et al., 2010).
2. Implement Positive Reinforcement
Reinforcing positive behavior encourages students to continue making good choices.
Use Verbal Praise: “I appreciate how you followed directions so quickly!”
Reward Systems: Implement token economies (e.g., stickers, points, or classroom currency) for appropriate behavior.
Classroom Privileges: Offer extra recess time or leadership roles for consistent positive behavior.
Tip: Reinforce positive behavior immediately and consistently to strengthen its impact (Horner et al., 2010).
3. Develop Consistent Routines
Structured classroom routines create predictability and reduce disruptive behaviors.
Morning Routine: Greet students, review the daily schedule, and set expectations.
Transition Strategies: Use signals (e.g., clapping patterns, countdowns) to indicate transitions between activities.
End-of-Day Routine: Reflect on the day’s successes and prepare for the next day.
Tip: Teach, practice, and reinforce routines until they become habits (Sugai et al., 2000).
4. Use Preventative Strategies to Minimize Disruptions
Addressing potential behavioral challenges before they escalate is a key component of PBIS.
Proximity Control: Move around the classroom to prevent off-task behavior.
Engagement Strategies: Use interactive activities, group discussions, and movement-based learning.
Non-Verbal Cues: Use hand signals or eye contact to redirect behavior discreetly.
Tip: Keeping students engaged reduces opportunities for misbehavior (Bradshaw et al., 2012).
5. Apply Restorative Practices for Conflict Resolution
Restorative approaches help students take responsibility for their actions and repair harm.
Use Restorative Circles: Allow students to discuss conflicts and find solutions together.
Encourage Reflection: Ask students to write about their behavior and how to improve.
Foster Peer Mediation: Train students to help resolve minor conflicts among classmates.
Tip: Focus on building relationships rather than simply punishing students (Horner et al., 2010).
6. Use Data to Guide Decision-Making
Tracking behavioral data helps educators adjust strategies to meet students’ needs.
Behavior Charts: Track student behavior trends over time.
Office Discipline Referrals (ODRs): Use referral data to identify patterns and implement interventions.
Student Check-Ins: Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with students who need extra support.
Tip: Use data to tailor interventions for students who require additional behavioral support (Sugai & Horner, 2006).