Behavior

In my first grad teaching assignment I had one child that was very distruptive. He was trying to prove his "power". He wanted me join him in a power stuggle. The three things that helped me deal with him. I had to Be Firm, give him a Choice, and Connect with him.
Once he began getting in trouble I gave him a choice. Then he had to know I would follow through. We also had to email his mother.
After all this I really started to try to connect with him. I allowed him to be my helper, and be in charge of things. He loved being in charge. As soon as his behavior started to improve I only let him be my helper when he was on task and not being disruptive.
He would say, "I thought I always did that".
I would reply, "I know but you were being disruptive, I bet you will be ready next time".
By the end of my first grade time he was very well behaved and we really formed a good bond.
Forming that connection and mutual respect was Key!
Jana Fawbush