20 Ways to Support Learners Who Do Not Appear to Be Happy

Are you looking for ways to support students who do not appear to be happy? If so, keep reading.

1. Make sure that reinforcement is not inadvertently given when the student does not smile, laugh, or demonstrate happiness (e.g., paying attention to the student only when they show unhappiness).

2. Dissuade the student from engaging in those learning activities that cause them unhappiness.

3. Provide the student additional duties (e.g., chores, errands, etc.) to give them a feeling of success or accomplishment.

4. Help the student find things they wish were in their surroundings and work with the student toward these goals.

5. Always treat the student with the utmost respect. Talk objectively at all times.

6. Let the student attempt something new in private before doing so in front of others.

7. Urge the student to interact with others.

8. Give the student frequent chances to meet new people.

9. Do not force the student to interact with others.

10. Convey your feelings in a socially acceptable way.

11. Assess the appropriateness of the task to ascertain (a) if the task is too complicated and (b) if the duration of time scheduled to finish the task is appropriate.

12. Connect with parents, agencies, or appropriate parties to inform them of the problem, identify the cause of the problem, and discuss potential solutions to the problem.

13. Praise those students in the classroom who take part in classroom learning activities or special activities.

14. Urge the student to take part in classroom learning activities or special activities.

15. Praise the student for demonstrating happiness when appropriate: (a) give the student a concrete reward (e.g., privileges such as leading the line, handing out learning materials, 10 minutes of free time, etc.) or (b) give the student an informal reward (e.g., praise, handshake, smile, etc.).

16. Consider using an adaptive behavior management app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

17. Click here to learn about six bonus strategies for challenging problem behaviors and mastering classroom management.

18. Consider using a socio-emotional learning app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

19. Consider using an emotional intelligence app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

20. Consider using a school counseling app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

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