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Past Blog Posts

Respect Circles as a Behavior Tool

February 15, 2023

This year, my classroom has really been struggling with behaviors. In particular, I noticed that there is a severe deficit in the social skills that my students need compared to what they have. I was wracking my brain--how can I combat this? Then, as behaviors continued, I began to ask myself: is there a way I can address this while promoting a growth mindset? Thus began the Respect Circle.

Respect Circles are based in knowledge of collaborative seminars and growth practices. My goal was to create an environment--even just a temporary one--where students can be honest, self-reflective, and, maybe most importantly, heard. This year, I personally have used Respect Circles countless times. Let me start off with a comprehensive, but not limiting, list of what you can use them for:

• Classroom community building

• Response to behaviors (negative or positive)

• Raising self-worth

• Conflict resolution

• Learning and practicing healthy social-emotional routines

The purpose of a Respect Circle is really what you make of it, and it all depends on the questions you ask. As the teacher, you act as the facilitator of an open and honest discussion surrounding topic(s) that make sense to your class. For example, this year I have used Respect Circles following days with disruptive behavior. We talk about how that day made students feel, how they can personally be better next time, and even how a classroom should make them feel. Again, the exact questions are up to you depending on the situation. However, each and every Respect Circle needs its own set of expectations laid out at the start. Providing structure is key to making sure this process works.

If you're worried that students will not take this seriously, just try it out once and you may be surprised. I have found that my students love Respect Circles and ask for them often; they sometimes even suggest we do one when we've had a difficult day. Also, I find that students are more willing to be honest and open to listening during this practice. You might even be shocked by how many students can admit their own faults and then make connections on how to improve. Over time, thinking critically and resolving conflict through this created space will transfer over into how students respond to issues in their daily lives. It's like the saying goes--practice makes you better (because perfect is impossible).

If you feel that Respect Circles might be right for your classroom, check out our Teachers Pay Teachers page where our Respect Circle resource is currently available. This resource includes more information about how to set up your very own Respect Circle, as well as sets of questions to start you off.

Blog #4 takeaway: You can use Respect Circles for many purposes in your classroom, all of which benefit the social emotional wellbeing of your students.