As a teacher (and parent) it may seem that all you do is give orders, correct children, and hand out punishment. Carrying out activities such as the ones described above can cause a long and stressful day for any adult or child.
If only there was a way to get the students to do what you want them to do without having to scold, yell, or pull out your hair!
While there will always be defiant students who test your nerves, there are some ways that you can make your days a lot less stressful.
Try some of the tips below for better results in getting your students to do what you want them to do.
Be direct about the problem at hand. In many cases we tend to criticize or throw out negativity when we correct children. Instead of saying “Who made this mess? You kids do not take care of anything!” Try saying “There are markers, marker tops, and paper all over the table”. This way there is no question about what it is that displeases you.
In most cases, students think that you tell them to do things simply because you want to boss them around. In many cases it probably does seem that way. After stating what it is that you are unhappy about, tell them way. Give them a reason on why you are correcting them. For example after giving the stated problem above say, “If you leave the tops off of the markers they will dry out and you will not be able to use them again.”
Many children rebel because they feel trapped by doing what you want instead of what they want. They feel that they have no control over the situation. Try offering a choice in which both answers please you. This way the child feels that he or she has some control. For example say , “ You can stack the paper up and put the markers in the bag or you can put all of the materials on the shelf.”
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