Embedded Files
+ + +
Classroom management is more than simply keeping the class engaged and learning. When viewed from a holistic approach it develops community and self-awareness.
+ + +
Students want to feel safe and welcome in their classroom.
Engaging with students and their families at the beginning of the year helps to create connection, builds trust and leads to meaningful relationships.
See how I share a bit about myself to connect with students and set positive expectations for a great year in my Back to School Night presentation.
Back to School Night_17NOV22.pdfClick to view my Back to School Night Presentation
Here are some of my favorite ideas for creating a calm, safe learning environment.
Morning Meetings
Ease students into each day. Students can share current events and practice listening to others. Morning meetings are also a great time to practice mindful breathing with some light exercises to stimulate the right and left brain. These technique are also helpful throughout the day to help students focus.
Create Intention, Expectation, and Purpose
Help students set intentions during math class
List the day's events so students know what to expect
Build self-confidence and define purpose with classroom jobs
Provide Choices
I love to give students choices whenever possible. One way to help students feel comfortable is to give them different seating options. In my 4/5th grade class, students can sit on couches, circular chairs, on the rug, or pull cushions to sit on the floor.
Manage the Flow
Help students manage the flow of movement so they're not clustered at their cubies or entering the classroom at the same time. Using name sticks is a helpful way to give the appearance of calling students at random, while selecting groups of students that will work better together.
Practice Functioning as a Class
Students need autonomy to choose where they sit but they also need to take responsibility for their actions if they're sitting next to someone who is distracting them. At times I will assign seating, but I will also teach students to take the initiative to move to a new location when needed. How to work together as a group is practiced by my 2nd grade math class when they line up for class. I'll ask students to create a line segment and other at times a perpendicular line. Practicing body position in relationship to others helps students learn how to be respectful both inside and outside the classroom.
Hold a Peace Talk
I learned how to effectively use peace talks with my K/1 class. When there was a dispute, the students learned to sit around the stool and pass the talking stick to share their thoughts in a non-confrontational way. Eventually the students were able to hold these talks without my assistance.
When Students Need Extra Support
Self Reflection and Goals
Above is a behavior chart I use to help a student who is struggling to keep on track. The student fills it out and at the end of the day we discuss how many points they should receive. It's a great opportunity for self reflection and setting goals for the next day. When goals are met the student is rewarded with early recess or extra choice time. After a few weeks practicing the goals students show significant improvement.
Understanding Behavior and Accountability
Above is a handwritten "Personal Letter" technique I developed using simple questions relevant to the challenge. This allows the student time to think about their behavior and own it their own writing. A physical document opens the door to discussions of self-awareness, accountability and strategies for improvement.
Page updated
Report abuse