Our classroom is built on respect and that goes with how I manage our classroom. I don't believe in a top down behavior policy where I make all the rules and decisions.

My students and I reflect, discuss and come to decisions together. I include them in deciding consequences because it's all part of the learning process. Being able to have a safe space to openly talk about the what and why things happen is important. Then having a chance to make things right and reflect on how to make changes in our behavior for the future is very valuable.

My students and I respect each other and build bonds that create a safe place for them to openly state their feelings and thoughts. I like to model to them that listening with open minds and hearts makes a difference when we are trying to understand each other. I also model that asking for some space so that we are able to calm down and breathe before talking about a situation is okay, in fact it is being responsible and understanding that having a calm conversation is much more beneficial for everyone. Whatever I'm asking my students to do I try to be constantly modeling it to them in my actions.

We remind each other to breathe because we all get frustrated and that is okay. We remind each other that making mistakes is perfectly normal and we don't judge each other. Instead we try to build a space where we aren't afraid to make mistakes because that is how we all learn.