There are a wide variety of programs to support social and emotional learning (SEL). There is research that supports that schoolwide SEL can be very helpful for improving students outcomes. However, it sometimes can be difficult to identify approaches to match the needs of your students. When looking for SEL programs, it is best to look […]
Gaining Traction and Buy-In for PBS
I once heard John Maxwell say that if a train was moving at 55 miles per hour, it could knock through a six-foot block of concrete. However, if the train was sitting still, you could put a two inch block of wood in front of one of the front wheels and it would be stuck. […]
How to Improve Your Acknowledgment
I sometimes get questions about acknowledging students, particularly as it relates to praise. This is an important part of creating a positive behavioral environment for your class. Interestingly, teachers who use a higher ratio of praise to correction, and are specific when they do so (e.g., I like the way you are working so hard […]
Managing behavior and redirection
My son’s summer day camp was not well organized. When we arrived, I noticed counselors playing games with friends, and campers pushing and shoving. I saw a few staff talking with kids, but they were the exception. I noticed a fight breakout out on the basketball court when I picked up my son that afternoon. […]
Acknowledgement in Secondary Schools
“People should not be paid for doing the right thing! I should not be teaching people basic social skills at this point!” These are a few things I have heard from secondary teachers about teaching and acknowledging students. We know that acknowledging students is a key component of schoolwide supports for improving school climate. In his book […]