Establishing Routines and Procedures
- Develop clear and consistent daily routines
- Create a visual schedule for younger students
- Establish procedures for transitions between activities
- Implement a system for distributing and collecting materials
- Set up a consistent method for taking attendance
Creating a Positive Learning Environment
- Greet students at the door each day
- Use positive reinforcement consistently
- Celebrate student achievements, both big and small
- Decorate the classroom with motivational quotes and student work
- Incorporate plants or other natural elements to create a calming atmosphere
Setting Clear Expectations
- Collaboratively create classroom rules with students
- Display rules prominently in the classroom
- Review expectations regularly, especially after breaks
- Use role-playing to demonstrate expected behaviors
- Provide clear rubrics for assignments and projects
Managing Student Behavior
- Implement a token economy system for positive reinforcement
- Use non-verbal cues to redirect minor misbehaviors
- Employ the “two-minute rule” for addressing disruptive behavior
- Utilize proximity control by moving closer to off-task students
- Implement a “cool down” corner for students who need a break
Organizing the Physical Space
- Arrange desks to facilitate both group work and individual focus
- Create designated areas for different activities (reading corner, art station, etc.)
- Use color-coding to organize materials and subjects
- Implement a system for managing student belongings
- Ensure all areas of the classroom are easily visible from the teaching position
Engaging Students
- Incorporate movement breaks throughout the day
- Use a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles
- Implement cooperative learning strategies
- Utilize technology to enhance lessons and engagement
- Incorporate student interests into lesson plans
Time Management
- Use a timer for timed activities and transitions
- Implement a “do now” or “bell ringer” activity at the start of class
- Create a parking lot for off-topic questions or ideas
- Use exit tickets to assess understanding and plan future lessons
- Develop a consistent homework routine and tracking system
Building Relationships
- Learn and use students’ names quickly
- Show genuine interest in students’ lives outside of school
- Implement regular one-on-one check-ins with students
- Share appropriate personal anecdotes to connect with students
- Create opportunities for peer-to-peer relationship building
Addressing Individual Needs
- Develop individualized behavior plans for students who need extra support
- Provide fidget tools or alternative seating options for students who need them
- Offer choice in assignments to cater to different interests and abilities
- Implement differentiated instruction techniques
- Create a system for students to request help discreetly
Communication
- Establish clear channels of communication with parents/guardians
- Send regular updates on classroom activities and student progress
- Use a classroom newsletter or blog to share information
- Implement a system for students to communicate concerns privately
- Utilize technology for streamlined communication (e.g., classroom apps)
Conflict Resolution
- Teach and model conflict resolution strategies
- Implement peer mediation programs
- Use restorative justice practices when addressing conflicts
- Establish a “peace corner” for students to work out disagreements
- Teach active listening skills to improve student-to-student communication
Classroom Procedures
- Develop a consistent procedure for sharpening pencils
- Establish a system for students to use the restroom without disrupting class
- Create a procedure for turning in completed work
- Implement a system for students to access missed work when absent
- Establish clear procedures for emergency drills
Motivation and Encouragement
- Use growth mindset language and strategies
- Implement a “student of the week” program
- Create a “kindness board” to recognize positive actions
- Use specific praise rather than general compliments
- Implement a goal-setting system for students to track their progress
Managing Group Work
- Assign specific roles within groups to ensure equal participation
- Use think-pair-share strategies to ease into group work
- Implement a noise level system (e.g., voice levels 0-3)
- Teach and practice active listening skills for group discussions
- Use cooperative learning structures like jigsaw or round robin
Handling Transitions
- Use music or sound cues to signal transitions
- Implement countdown techniques for smoother transitions
- Provide visual schedules for students who struggle with changes
- Practice transitions regularly, especially at the beginning of the year
- Use transition activities to maintain engagement between lessons
Technology Management
- Establish clear rules for device usage in the classroom
- Implement a check-in/check-out system for shared devices
- Teach digital citizenship and online safety
- Use screen time tracking tools to monitor and manage device usage
- Implement tech-free times or zones in the classroom
Self-Reflection and Improvement
- Keep a teacher journal to reflect on daily experiences
- Regularly seek feedback from students on classroom management
- Videotape lessons occasionally for self-evaluation
- Participate in professional development opportunities
- Collaborate with colleagues to share and learn new strategies
Managing Special Events and Field Trips
- Develop clear procedures for guest speakers or special presentations
- Create detailed checklists for field trip preparation
- Assign buddy systems for off-campus activities
- Implement debriefing sessions after special events
- Prepare alternative plans for unexpected changes or cancellations
End-of-Day Routines
- Implement a daily reflection or journaling activity
- Create a cleanup checklist for students to follow
- Use exit tickets to assess learning and plan for the next day
- Establish a consistent dismissal routine
- End each day on a positive note (e.g., sharing appreciations)
Beginning of the Year
- Plan icebreaker activities to build classroom community
- Assess students’ learning styles and preferences early on
- Establish classroom jobs or responsibilities
- Create a welcome packet with essential information for students and parents
- Plan team-building activities to foster a positive classroom culture
Remember, the key to effective classroom management is consistency, flexibility, and a genuine commitment to creating a positive learning environment for all students.

