POSITIVE DISCIPLINE IS IN!

ANA LIZA M. CRUZ

We always heard complaints that teaching today is exhausting not because of the work-related issues but the student’s misbehaviors such as disruptive talking, avoidance of work, clowning, harassing classmates to name a few. It is stress-provoking and thorny issue in everyday classes. Classroom behavior is one of the problems of the teacher on how to manage their class.

Furthermore, these misbehaviors of the learners retard the effectiveness of teaching and impede the learning of the class. Now, as it escalated with time, it resulted in a low academic achievement. So, what should we do to manage the class without getting into trouble? Positive discipline!

Positive discipline in the classroom is a method that provides many alternative tools that teach student skills for self-discipline, responsibility and problem-solving. This approach is about managing misbehaving learners in a positive way, rather than using rewards and punishments. Positive discipline is a researched-based and provide the teachers a framework to create a safe and secured classroom environment. It is about helping the students get back on track when they are feeling sad and disconnected.

I believe that if we use this method, the learners’ well-being and learning will be enhanced thus, making the classroom more learning-friendly.

Maybe these alternative tools and strategies will help:

1. Redirection. This is effective to younger pupils who misbehaved by giving them another and more appropriate activity.

2. Establish a connection. Children need to feel they are belong and they matter. If they feel you care, they will heed your words.

3. Use of positive reinforcement. Reinforce the positive behavior through verbal praise and recognition.

4. Know your learners’ emotion. Take time to understand, feel and identify the emotions of the pupils. This can help understand their feelings better and how they handle their emotions.

Remember, every child is unique so these tools are not one-size-fits-all but rather ideas to lean on to expand your teaching toolbox. Happy teaching!

-oOoThe author is Teacher III at San Esteban Elementary School, Macabebe West

District, Macabebe, Pampanga.