Table of Contents
Intro for the start
Since I’ve become a mum there’s been a lot of parenting content coming my way. I’ve been reading quite a bit on a psychological side of things.
I am currently reading a book about a father’s role in a child’s life. And the author states that both parents are equally important for the healthy development of a human being. And, while the role of a mother is to give unconditional love and nurture, the role of the father is to set boundaries and introduce rules.
A phrase surprised me: When the mother imposes boundaries, they will be tested. When the father does the same, the child will accept them.
So is it the same for our classrooms?
How many times have they “mummed” you?
Regardless of how many times I was called “mum” by my primary students, I can say that this concept definitely cannot be applied to a classroom situation.
Being a teacher is challenging for both male and female colleagues. Classroom management can be painful, especially if you are a newbie.
In the classroom, the boundaries are continuously tested. Some groups of children try to control the situation from day one, and others will be calm and quiet the first couple of lessons, getting to know you.
I had both, and I prefer the first one; they keep you on your toes from the first lesson, but you are not caught off guard.
So what should we do?
No matter how bad your situation is, you must remember: you are in control! And, of course, here are some practical tips to make your experience with your classes as smooth as possible.
- First: set the rules. Your students need to know what they can and cannot do and what is expected of them from day one.
- Second: follow your own rules. It is essential during the first weeks of your work with a new class.
- Third: your boundaries will be tested. Just by expecting it, you will be better prepared if it happens.
- Fourth: be consistent. Don’t change the rules on the go.
- Fifth: be stricter in the beginning than you would typically be. Make sure you are still respectful towards your students.
- Sixth: praise and reinforce the desirable behavior apart from punishing for undesirable
The last point is the most important. You want your students to enjoy your lessons, so show that video, play that game, and praise, praise, praise. There is always something to praise for.