In Control of your Class : Effective Classroom Management.
School life has been undeniably the best times of our lives, our classrooms holding secrets like no diary had. Most of us can even remember the instances where we were at the brunt of our teacher’s temper and braving through punishments on several occasions.
When we look back at these fond memories, it occurs to us that maybe, just maybe, several of these punishments and gentle admonishments were a part of classroom management that was efficiently carried out by our teachers back then. As some of us grew up to become teachers, we realised that the tables have turned and it’s time we knew how our teachers did it.
Classroom environments vary vastly across different age groups and levels. With the growing dynamics of a classroom then comes the managing of it. A successful lesson, we believe, is a contributory of effective classroom management. Here are five ways of managing a classroom that had helped us too.
Organize the classroom.
Environment is a rather crucial factor in a child’s learning. It must be conducive, spacious and safe for the child to engage within the confines of it. A preschool classroom is never a quiet house, for there are bound to be chaos unleashed within a span of minutes. It is hence, important for teachers to know their classroom well enough to segregate it proper, in order to conduct an effective lesson for the day. Ensure that materials are kept within reach (of teachers) and prepared, for pre-class, class and even post-class.
Create routine.
Young children follow more than they listen, and they follow a predictable pattern. Always ensure that you tailor your lessons into a simple routine so that children are able to anticipate. When they anticipate, they subconsciously prepare themselves for it, helping teachers along the way. When you welcome changes, ensure that it is communicated effectively to them in simple and concise sentences. Stick to the pattern, do not change anything without informing or communicating it across.
Positive reinforcement.
Positivity goes a long way in grooming a child’s behaviour and self-growth. Instead of telling a child “no”, we can use terms such as “let’s try again”. Delivering praises to a child when he/she does something well in class allows the child’s motivation to grow and will further spur the child to take up challenges easily. Even praise them in front of their parents, children love that little recognition and warm smile from their parents to know that they are doing great in your classroom.
Body Language.
Moving around in a preschool classroom is highly required. Energy levels are high in a preschool classroom, and as much as it can be exhausting, teachers must keep up to them. Dramatising and using large movements not only grab attention, but delivers an effective lesson. Children retain more information through actions and imagery than words itself. Not just that, but body language must also project readiness, whether teachers are sitting down or standing up. This also asserts a hold on the classroom and allows the teacher to take control easily.
Break up.
Yes, break up the classroom. Breaking up the classroom may seem like an extra hurdle for teachers to handle, but breaking up a class is miraculous indeed. When a classroom has two or more teachers, breaking the children up in groups allows a better distribution of teacher to child ratio. A small group of students will ensure that no child is left behind at all times. Delegating tasks are also relatively easier when children are split into smaller groups, as well as to monitor their progress.
Here they are, our top classroom management tips from our beloved teachers themselves. Managing a classroom doesn’t come easy, it takes a few practices and consistency to sink in. Do share with us more on how you manage a classroom, or even a learning environment at home, we would love to hear and welcome more ideas our way as well !