How to Discipline Children in the Classroom

For a teacher, disciplining children in the classroom has to begin on Day One. Here are some guidelines to help you with the process.

Instructions

1. On the first day of class, ask the children to devise some basic rules they feel are necessary for a positive learning environment. This helps make them conscious of the basic expectations the entire class must meet.

2. Write down all the rules on the blackboard. Discuss why these rules are important. Add your own guidelines as well. Explain each rule, making sure the students know the consequences of breaking them. Have the rules posted in the classroom for everyone to see at all times, and give copies to the children's parents.

3. Make a reward board for the children. The child who gets the most points every week gets a prize. Give a healthy amount of attention to each child, but do not award preferential treatment.

4. Make sure that when a child breaks a rule, he knows the consequences. Create productive punishments that emphasize what he has done wrong while creating positive stimuli. For example, if a child has ripped a poster on purpose, keep him in detention and have him create a replacement.

5. It's important to be firm, especially at the beginning of term. Students will constantly try to test your limits, so you have to give a clear message this will not be tolerated. Once there is trust and a certain level of discipline has been established, you can appear more relaxed. The students must always have a level of respect toward their teacher.

Tips & Warnings

• Work up special occasions and activities for the students to look forward to (if they behave).

• Try to mix up activities so that the children don't have time to misbehave.

• Maintain a constant dialogue with the parents.

• Do not break the rules you have created unless it's absolutely necessary.

• Do not be abusive or yell at students.

• Do not let the students disrespect you or tell you how things should be done.