Tips and tricks for classroom management Rosie Harriott and Liz Van Oyen

Rosie’s art and writing: Art gallary/products on RedBubble: http://www.redbubble.com/people/posierose Amazon small paperback (search ‘Fletcher’s Precious Heart’ or copy this link: http://tinyurl.com/j3k85x4 Blurb (hardcover special edition): http://au.blurb.com/b/4665130-fletcher-s-precious-heart

Devotional blog for teachers: www.heartsoulteach.com

Pair and Share – Class management stories What has worked for you and what hasn’t? Don’t be afraid to share… we can all learn from our (and your) mistakes!

Tips from a relief teacher

Look for clues

Research Check with the grade partner Small things can make a big difference

Set the tone Praise early Who am I? Classroom teacher Changes to routine My expectations

Be confident! Use what you know Use what you have Ask for help Appreciate the class

Pair and Share With regards to classroom management, what do you believe are the main considerations for relief teachers as opposed to classroom teachers?

Brain Break – I Get Loose – Koo Koo Kanga Roo: Copy link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if8qfVjVFc8

Tips from a class teacher

Christ who strengthens Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Getting their attention!

Tools of the trade Instruments e.g. bell Clapping patterns ‘Simon Says’ style (copy the actions) Raise hand and wait Brain breaks! 5 L’s Call and response

Classroom rules and culture

Class rules Example: Follow directions quickly Raise your hand to speak Be a caring friend Always do your best work Listen when someone is speaking You could develop your own with students at the start of year.

Reward systems Various approaches pick what works for you and aligns with your whole school approach, eg. ‘The reward is in the task’ is more common in parent controlled schools. Sticker charts for Kindy – Year 2 Peg system with gems (Stage 2) Class dojo (online system which can be linked to parent email for immediate communication) www.classdojo.com

Reward Systems Bright Sparks - tokens given out in playground and classroom Be a safe, Christ-like Learner Various focus areas Teachers try to catch students demonstrating positive behaviours Reward day – Flame Day

Other strategies Responsibility monkey Class mascot/spy teacher Quiet critters Traffic lights for noise levels or iPad app equivalent, e.g. ‘Quiet Classroom’ Set seating (lines, desks, floor, Assembly, etc). Kindness vase Pinterest is a valuable toolbox!

Individual behaviour management

Class management plan Your plan should state the expectations of your classroom and explain the procedure when students do not follow the classroom rules. e.g. one verbal warning (name down one spot), the thinking chair, then parent contact. Your plan should be approved by your supervisor and placed in front of program and/or given to casuals when required. Be consistent! Every student (usually)* requires the same boundaries in order to feel safe and secure in the classroom environment. * While we will still, at times, manage behaviours case by case, there needs to be consistent consequences for poor choices – especially if it concerns a student who normally does the right thing.

Any questions?

Proverbs 22:6 Point your kids in the right direction – when they’re old they won’t be lost.