Classroom Management

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Archive : 2001 : September : 28

Classroom Management
By AM

Classroom management can be the most difficult part of subbing. One thing that I have learned to do is to pinpoint the trouble-makers right away. Then make them your special helper for little things like writing on the
chalkboard or putting things away. It is amazing how far that goes for their self-esteem. Give them the attention they are craving but in a positive way. Many young kids (usually K-3 at least) are happy to be the teacher's helper.
I subbed last week and a girl kept interrupting me and others as well as talking at her table when she was supposed to be quiet. I pulled her aside when

they went to music and asked her if she would do me a favor. She was very excited that and wanted to know what she could do. I asked her to give a silent signal to the people at her table whenever they were talking when they weren't supposed to be talking. She was so excited to be a helper that she went away with a very good feeling. At one point later in the day I caught her saying "sh" to her table-mates and corrected her by telling her that the silent signal was more appropriate. She said "oh" and quickly put her finger to her mouth and looked at me for assurance. Of course this was not a cure-all for the entire day but when I reminded her in the future to stop talking she knew that I was on her side and not the enemy. We were a team.

You definitely have to give the kids the feeling that you have things under control but you have to let them feel like they are part of the team in helping the class succeed. Many kids who act out do it because they need attention or need to feel some sort of control. Sometimes giving up some control gives kids what they need and the result is much less time-consuming that constantly correcting behavior.