Hey, Reader,

The beginning of the year is such an important time for setting expectations. But sometimes, especially in kindergarten, it feels like herding cats.

Kids come in with the expectation that you will hop up to meet their every need in the moment they want it.

"Teacher, teacher!"

Ugh. That just hurts my ears.

Which is why I focus on preventing that problem as soon as school begins.

The Key is Ignorance - Yours!

When a student starts shouting and waving their arm wildly, it is so tempting to rush over and quiet them right down.

But that actually rewards their behavior, and makes it more likely to be repeated.

If a student starts shouting and waving their hand, I stop and look around the room, purposefully making sure NOT to make eye contact with the loud student.

Then I say, quietly, but firmly, "Hm. I don't see anyone raising their hand quietly, so I guess no one needs help right now."

Then I turn away for a few seconds. I am deliberately giving NO attention to the noisy student.

Generally the loud student quiets down, and raises their hand. If they stay quiet and patient for a few seconds, I turn back and say, "Oh, Evan. Thanks for raising your hand so quietly. I can see that you need my help." And then I walk over to them.

Why Does This Simple Strategy Work?

First, this strategy works because I am explicitly teaching my expectations. When I say, "I don't see anyone with their hand raised quietly." I am reminding students of the rule.

Second, when I ignore the shouting, the student does not get what they want. And the other students notice. That makes them more likely to show the appropriate behavior.

Finally, I'm not giving the loud behavior my attention. The students quickly learn that shouting will not get my attention.

I give my attention to the behavior I want to see.

In the process, I teach students something important:

If you need my help, you know exactly what to do.

Try This Tomorrow

Play a game with your students. Ask them to show you the wrong way to get your attention. They will love this, and likely jump out of their seats with enthusiasm.

Your part? Ignore them all. Turn away. Pretend you can't hear or see them.

Then say, "Hm. I don't see any students with quiet hands, so I guess no one needs my help."

At least one student will understand that's your expectation. When they sit down and raise their hand quietly, walk over to them, say "Thank you for getting my attention in the right way," and give them a thumbs up.

As more students show the correct procedure, tell them 'Thank You' and give them a thumbs up. Walk around, thanking students until every student is showing the correct procedure.

Now you have taught the routine that will save you so much time and aggravation over the year. Continue to reinforce it by ignoring the incorrect behavior.

One day, you'll think to yourself, "Hm, no one shouts 'Teacher, teacher' anymore.

On that good day, send me a quick email and we will celebrate together!

Consistency is the key here. Do this every time. It may take weeks, or even months with stubborn students. But I am betting you are more stubborn, and you will prevail in the end! Let's have a great year together!

Happy Teaching!

Susan

Let's Connect!

MsCotton'sCorner - The Blog

MsCotton'sCorner on YouTube

MsCotton'sCorner on TPT