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I'm Told That Mainstream Classrooms Can't Be As Successful As Mine - Why Not??
The children I successfully teach every day are so violent, aggressive and out of conrol in their mainstream schools that they are all under threat of permanent exclusion. Their physical and verbal violence puts adults and other children in danger of injury. These children use the most disgusting and foul language. At the slightest excuse they attack - kicking, biting and screaming.
On a daily basis I demonstrate that these children can be managed in a classroom environment. Staff from schools see the results. I expect children's best efforts in class, the use of manners and a high level of acceptable behaviour. The children are relaxed and happy. What reaction to I get from those in mainstream schools?
Quite often 'But Liz, I can't have my class like yours.' Oh, get a grip!!! These are little kids we're talking about, and they're being allowed to treat people like dirt!!!
Then I'll hear all types of reasons why children's behaviour isn't being managed properly.
My classes must be easy, they say, as I only have a small number of children. Well, that could be true but I have 10 or more children in a class with 1 adult, unlike most other similar environments where 4 children and 2 adults would be the norm. Ten extreme behaviour problems in one group could easily lead to problems, chaos even, but my behaviour management strategies work so well that this doesn't happen.
Schools tell me that they can't do anything about the child's behaviour because they have so many thousands of other children to consider - well, ok, a slight exaggeration on numbers there. But the truth is that they have a few behaviour problems that they could manage effectively if they had the skills.
Some people tell me that my classes must be regimented and they couldn't possibly manage their classes like that. Plus they claim that parents would be queuing up to complain. They're confusing being regimented with structure and routine, with an adult the children recognise as being in charge who can manage their behaviour confidently and effectively. This needs the correct skills and confidence. There has to be an insistance on good work, manners and following school rules. I fail to see this as a problem. I fail to see it as being regimented. It's the discipline and security children need for them to grow up confidently and successful.
As for the excuse about parents complaining - what parent wants their children's classes to be flooded with bad behaviour. They want their children to be able to learn and make progress in school. So sorry, this excuse doesn't make sense.
So much for my regimented kids! James came to school with his ghost costume for Hollowe'en in his bag. Well he is only 9! Anyway, at lunchtime I asked him if he wanted to frighten some of the staff? He readily agreed. While he became a ghost, I invited staff to our room where James was hiding behind the door. When he heard them come down the corridor he jumped out to scare them. A little boy having a wonderful time.
This is the same little boy who, last year, was so out of control that he daily ran amok in school, damaging and destroying. He regularly ran away, violently attacked adults and children, refused to complete class work and wanted everything his own way. Massive doses of Ritalin had no impact. But now he's a bright, happy, hard working little boy who's enjoying success in school. He's well liked and doing so well. Not an unusual case from my class - quite the norm in fact.
Effectively managing children's behaviour isn't hard - anybody can learn the skills. You can make your classroom successful.
About the Author You can profit from Liz Marsden's skill and knowledge in managing children's behaviour and classroom management skills. Behaviour Bible offers you invaluable advice to make your teaching skillful. Follow Liz's daily classroom and outreach work and pick up tips and advice to help you in your classroom.
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