It’s crucial to inspire good conduct in students for there to be a proper teaching atmosphere as well as general improvement. The following are ten ways and techniques through which it is possible to promote positive behavior among school children:
- Establish Clear Expectations
Setting clear and consistent expectations gives students an idea of what is expected from them. Rules and routines that are well-defined bring a sense of security and clarity to guide the students in observing the set code of behavior and conduct (1).
- Positive Reinforcement
Praise or stickers, and other forms of incentives given when positive behaviors are manifested, may encourage the repetition of such behaviors. As a matter of fact, in many cases, positive reinforcement proves more successful than punishment in achieving good behavior.
It should be noted that parents, teachers, and staff should model the behavior expected from students. Usually, children imitate adults, and thus it is important to show respect, kindness, and patience to influence them to behave in the same way (2).
- Teach Social-Emotional Skills
Social-emotional learning provided in the curriculum helps students to develop such skills as empathy, self-regulation, and conflict resolution, important for positive interaction and conduct (3).
- Positive Classroom Environment
A friendly and encouraging learning environment can influence student behavior. These include things like a neat-and-clean space, a display of student's work, and class friendship amongst the students. (4).
- Non-verbal cues
The non-verbal hints are hand gestures, eyes, or stride towards them which may be used to address the behavior of the pupil without disrupting the class. Such hints can remind students of expectations with subtlety and respect. (5)
- Restorative Practices
Restorative practices are interested in the repair of harm and restoration of relationships, not punitive action. This will help students develop insights into how their actions have hurt others through things like peer mediation and restorative circles.
- Involve Parents/Guardians
Behavior management may turn out to be very easy once the parents come aboard. Regular communication with them and teaming up ensures that the child receives a lot of consistency and support from them.
- Provide Clear Instructions and Transitions
Clear, concise directions and smooth transitions between activities make it easier to avoid misunderstandings and reduce off-task behavior. Visual schedules and timers can facilitate effective transitions.
- Offer Choices and Opportunities for Students Voice
Allowing students to give their voice regarding decisions about the classroom and to offer choices regarding learning activities can help increase their investment in the ownership of their engagement and behavior. This practice promotes responsibility and self-determination.
Conclusion
Juggling the encouragement of positive behavior in school children is multifaceted; it calls for clearly stated expectations, reinforcement of positive behavior, and the building of social-emotional competencies. In view of creating a positive and productive learning environment, educators can provide a supportive and structured classroom atmosphere, model appropriate behavior, and engage parents.
These strategies, when consistently employed, have the potential to strongly influence student behavior in creating a harmonious and effective educational experience.
Source:
(1) Positive behavior strategies: A guide for teachers - Understood. https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-are-positive-behavior-strategies.
(2) Positive Behavior Strategies: A Guide for Teachers. https://www.readingrockets.org/topics/classroom-management/articles/positive-behavior-strategies-guide-teachers.
(3) Behavior Management Strategies: Techniques for Encouraging Positive .... https://www.reachandteach.net/post/behavior-management-strategies-techniques-for-encouraging-positive-behavior.
(4) 10 Tips for Encouraging Positive Student Behavior - Strong4Life. https://www.strong4life.com/en/schools-and-community/educator-and-staff-resources/10-tips-for-encouraging-positive-student-behavior.
(5) 15 positive guidance strategies that work - and teach!. https://www.earlychildhoodspecialties.com/blog/positive-guidance-strategies-that-work-and-teach.
