Ready Steady Freeze! Tips for keeping control

Earlier this year, Julian was giving a TTC in Hungary and I volunteered to substitute for a class of 28 first and second graders. OMG! They practically ate me alive. If I had only known Julian’s tips I would definitely have been better off. And so I bring you: Julian’s tips and tricks for keeping control without being mean.

1. Be nice. The kids are there to have a good time and we can’t make it seem like school (even if it is).

2. Use chairs if you have enough room. This speeds up the transitions and keeps order in the courtroom. Don’t let them fight over seats;  separate problematic children if you have to.

3. Set clear rules: Make sure they know that all drinking (water), eating, and visits to the toilet must be completed before the lesson. After a few weeks they will learn that they cannot come and go as they please.

4.  Always try to have another adult in the room (teacher, aide, parent) to take care of any problems – discipline or other. If a child is having difficulty behaving, tell them to go and sit next to ________.

5. If things get out of control, stop – sit them all down – then use breathing or focusing exercises to calm the children.

6. Don’t lecture them – Understand that sometimes it’s like taking the top off a fizzy drink after it has been shaken about – of course the kids are a bit rowdy – they have been sitting at a desk all day long.

7. Always try to end calmly with a breathing exercise.

We are happy to hear from you as well. Send us your comments and tips.  Julian is eagerly awaiting your questions.