Teachers can take multiple actions to address and reduce behavioral problems in the classroom. Admonish students about poor behavior in private whenever possible to avoid straining relations with your students. Take time to craft an appropriate punishment; empty threats may only encourage poor behavior. Roam through all of the rows in a classroom frequently throughout the day to decrease the likelihood of behavioral problems in the back of the room. Teachers should engage students frequently by name to encourage classroom participation. Speak to students one-on-one or ask them about their motivations for poor behavior when troubles arise.
Call the parent's home to address any behavioral problems. Don't send notes or other indirect communication. Remain calm and friendly when talking to parents; mention the child's specific, positive and recent behaviors. Bring up a scenario that highlights the child's behavioral problems. Avoid mentioning several negative incidents about the child or subjective statements that may cast the child in a negative light. Encourage parents to take action regarding the problem. For example, if a child disrupts the classroom, encourage parents to talk to the child about the incident. Thank parents for their time and encourage them to call you if they have any questions.
Parents can manage a child's poor behavior by remaining calm when hearing about a teacher's assessment of the child's behavior. It's important for parents to ask specifics about the child's behavior and to ask what can be done to improve the child's behavior both in school and at home. Parents shouldn't make empty threats about punishment. Remain consistent in your discipline to set boundaries for your child. Explore other avenues that may be responsible for the child's behavior, such as learning disabilities.
Teachers should give clear, concise and frequent guidelines for student's behavior. Ask students questions to ensure they understand the limitations and expectations of the classroom. Poor behavior sometimes results from inconsistent or vague instruction. Parents should give specific instructions for the behavior expected from children, including consequences. Rather than telling children to "behave in class," remind students that homework must be done daily and students must remain seated at all times. Encourage students to participate in class; ask students specific questions or explain a concept to classmates. Active learning behaviors can reduce classroom behavioral problems.