Confronting difficult students in your class is not something that teachers look forward to but it is a disruption that every educator will meet at some point during their career. And then comes the possibility of difficult parents. Although these may be tough and sometimes emotional situations to deal with, it is important to stay positive.
Although this may be hard to do at times, try not to take the child`s disruptive behaviour personally. Remember that the child does not know you as a person, and is reacting the only way they know-childishly.
Controlling your emotions is an important part in dealing with children who do not want to listen to an adult who is trying to reason with them. Avoid the urge to get involved in a verbal battle with them, instead take the problem solving approach, and stay calm. Wherever possible, speak to the student privately away from their fellow peers, as there may be more personal problems such as family issues that are causing their behavior.
Focus working on solving the original problem, this will involve future disturbances from the same cause. And usually, if the root of the problem is discovered and resolved, then the student may offer an apology. Even if they don’t, but their behaviour improves, then this is still good as they are back on the right track.
In order to try and maintain the class` attention, try introducing some hands on method of learning such as educational printable and word searches that allow the children to get involved with their learning instead of simply listening to teachers dictating notes. These give them something new and fresh to think about it and also keep them alert and listening by changing their learning routine.
Positive reinforcement is also a great behaviour management tool to have up your sleeve. Praise and reinforce that good behaviour that you want in your class and ignore the in appropriate behaviour you wish to dispel but remember to specify why this behavior is good and hoe it can help them and their fellow classmates. Praise regularly and be honest.
Difficult and stubborn parents can be bane of a teachers` life. Although the idea of confronting them about a problem with their child might be terrifying, do not be afraid to assert your authority. The first step is to make an impression. Behind your desk you should display certificates of your achievements because weather people like to admit or not they are impressed by qualifications. Remind them that this is your class and that you are in charged.
While doing this, it is important to remain respectful. No matter how rude the parent may be, you must remain calm as a cool response will neutralize a toxic statement. Listen attentively to their side of the story and do not judge accuse, argue or interrupt. Another highly effective response to an angry statement is to simply not say a word. By replying, you are giving them verbal satisfaction. If ignored them, you are denying them the power and nobody likes to be ignored.
By: Elvie R.Mendoza | Teacher III | Saysain Elementary School | Bagac, Bataan
