Kindergarten teachers do not need an exhaustive list of classroom rules which kids may not remember, especially a long list of "do's" and "dont's." Instead, the teacher should come up with three to five expectations that focus on several areas of behavior. She needs to state them positively so the students will understand that they are responsible for their own behavior. For example, expectations might state, "We will be quiet while others speak" or "We will use kind words and say I'm sorry." Teachers should read the list to the class often and have students repeat them.
Kindergarten teachers will have to use discipline to teach children about acceptable behavior and consequences for non-compliance. These consequences should be reflective. Children need to know why they are being corrected. The best consequences are choices, not punishments. For example, if a child refuses to complete his work, the teacher presents him with a choice of missing recess to finish the work or completing it while others are having afternoon snack. Hopefully, the child will realize that the consequence for not finishing work is the loss of free or fun time.
Positive consequences encourage children to continue displaying correct behavior. Kindergarten teachers can use a variety of daily motivators throughout the day to maintain a pleasant classroom atmosphere. During instruction, she will praise students' cooperation and insightful comments. While children are working at their desks, the teacher can place stickers on written work that shows improvement. If a student displays improved behavior, the teacher should publicly praise him and get the class to give him a sign of approval like a "quiet clap."
Teachers need to utilize rewards carefully. If every positive behavior merits a reward, then they lose their intrinsic value. If rewards are no longer considered special, then the motivation to work for them is decreased. Also, students need to learn the importance of behaving appropriately even when no reward is offered. Teachers can make rewards special by designating special times for them. For example, if a student gets a smiley face or a thumbs-up sign on their daily behavior chart every day for a month, then they will receive a gift out of the class treasure box or have a special treat like ice cream or popcorn.