Stop negative behavior before it happens. Post a list of the rules in a visible area. Tell children to stand up and stretch to prevent restlessness. Call them up to the board to write or draw something in relation to the subject. Play a game based on the topic. Suggest to a child who seems most antsy to work on a puzzle, look at a picture book, water class plants or clean the whiteboard.
Ignore the problem child. Honing in on a misbehaving child may only escalate the issue. Children sometimes seek attention. Do not pay attention to the child for a couple of minutes. She might start to settle down once she sees the teacher will not give in to her antics.
Tell the child to "stop" in a firm tone. Reiterate the classroom rules. A strong tone of voice shows leadership. Demonstrate how to follow the rule the child broke. Tell him why he must follow the rule.
Step outside. Have the child stand outside of the class room for a few minutes. Follow her out to ask her questions about her mood or events in her life that might be affecting her. Instruct her before going back into the classroom to try her best to listen and learn. Stress to her the importance of the study material.
Explain consequences of continual misbehavior and follow through. Post a list of consequences for breaking the rules. For example, send the child to time-out for several minutes. Take away recess or playtime. Assign extra work such as a letter of apology to the teacher and fellow classmates. Have him read a letter out loud to the class. Ask the principal to get involved. Tell the child why he has been disciplined in a firm voice.
Reward good behavior. Give the child a sticker or piece of candy if her behavior changed for the better during the week. Compliment the whole class for listening so well. Allow extra in-class games or arts and craft time. Throw a class party at the end of the year for the least amount of pink slips, time-outs, principal office visits and suspensions.