It’s an all too common compulsion among teachers. Upon noticing a class routine going off the rails, they immediately jump in to try and correct it. They remind. They warn. They attempt to squelch the problem before it gets out of hand. It makes … Read more
One of the reasons difficult students misbehave is because their teacher expects that they will. They assume they will. Which causes the teacher to behave in such a way that antagonizes the student and reinforces their bad behavior. To combat this phenomenon, you must … Read more
If not reminded, and reminded often, your students will naturally slip into believing that school is just something they’re supposed to do. They never consider that school doesn’t need them, individually anyway, but that they need school. So many students approach their education as … Read more
One of the keys to handling difficult students is to hold them accountable for every rule violation, from the first day of school onward. Because if you don’t, you’ll be at their mercy. You’ll have to appease them, lower your standards, and give in … Read more
Teachers who struggle with classroom management tend to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. They’re burdened with the need to walk, talk, correct, cajole, and remind their students through every this and every that. They’re saddled with having to remain on … Read more
It’s common for teachers to misunderstand the term “building relationships.” They hear of the importance of creating connections with students—particularly difficult students—and assume it means they need to spend more time with them individually. They assume it means they need to try and get … Read more
Difficult students need your leadership. They need your consistency. They need your honesty, your forgiveness, and your unwavering belief in them. They need your fixed boundaries, your steady, predictable presence, your faithful accountability, and your commitment to doing what is right by them and … Read more
It’s easy to get pulled into an argument. Example: You notice a student pushing a classmate during a transition. It’s a clear violation of your classroom management plan, so you move in and enforce a consequence. Upon hearing the news, however, the student’s eyes … Read more