How to Ignore Annoying Classmates

There are numerous reasons why you might want to ignore a classmate. You may need to concentrate in class, tune out kids who are taunting you or need a break from increasingly annoying fellow students.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Focus intently on your teacher or textbook if you’re trying to ignore someone talking to you in class. If someone passes you a note, place it straight into your bag without reading it or write a quick, “Talk to you at lunch” as a response.
2. Ask your teacher if she can move you to the front of the class. Sitting with your back to everyone will make it easier to tune out the distractions and pretend that you can’t hear them talking to you or about you.
3. Pretend you can’t hear the annoying classmates. Appear busy with another activity, like talking to another student or looking for a book inside your locker. Between classes or at lunch, wear headphones and listen to music, make a call on your cell phone or keep your nose buried in a book.
4. Sit somewhere new at lunch. Find a spot where you can enjoy your food in peace. If you’re trying to tune out cruel or annoying taunting, consider sitting in the cafeteria near a bunch of teachers who may diffuse the situation.
5. Join different clubs to make new friends. If the classmates you’re trying to ignore were once your friends, take up activities that don’t involve them. Meet other students who will be nicer to you and respect your feelings.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to your teacher, parent or school counselor if good-natured or continuous teasing turns into bullying, makes you want to miss school or distracts you from your schoolwork.
• Don’t try to pester or bully the classmates in an attempt to get them to stop annoying you or to appear tough. Avoid reacting to the situation, since they’ll probably continue if they know they’re getting a rise out of you.