Some thoughts

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Some thoughts
By Barb

Hi Morgan,

First of all...hang in there. I started teaching last year and felt like i was in the same position. My students didn't respond to me as well as the aide. Part was because my voice was quieter and not as firm
or loud as the aides...and partly becase they had been with the aid the year before and were familiar with her. It may take them time to adjust to you and learn that you mean business too. My students learned that I was consistent too and that I followed through with my consequences. I have learned to use a firmer voice and sometimes louder, if needed, and that does help...and ironically...my

aide does not yell as much as she used to as she's seen the kids respond to me now without yelling. :-)

That's another part....you've explained the rules. Do you have consequences? Make sure you do and make sure you follow through on them...AND..make sure they are effective with the students. (Don't take away gym class from a kid who doesn't like gym anyways...you'll just reward the student)

And...one last approach...which for young kids is important. DOn't just explain the rules...practice them. State them in clear expectations of what they SHOULD DO, not what they should NOT do...then model and practice it and have the kids practice and practice. :-) If for circle, they are to sit quietly with their hands to themselves and eyes on you, have them show you what that looks like. You can even make it fun and have them practice the "wrong" way...but practice several times a day in the beginning to know they understand them and can do them. Or you show them examples...one good and one bad...of your rules and have them vote to say which one is right. PRactice and state the rules before you start circle each day.

I think its important to give them positive expectations, rather than things they shouldn't do. SOmetimes, kids hear the rules like "do not kick others" and they miss the "not" part... ALso, by telling them what NOT to do, it gives some kids ideas..if you know what i mean.

Good luck! They'll adjust to you and you'll learn to adjust too!
Barb