1. Talk with a more experienced teacher to get new ideas to try.
2. Invite a more experienced teacher to observe the child in action and make suggestions.
3. Focus on one or two things at a time...Say, "I need you to ...stay in your area..(sit on your chair, raise your hand, ) "need" shifts the conversation.
3. Make a list of "observable behaviors" (like you are a witness in court) and schedule a meeting with the parents. You may wish to have another teacher who deals with the child sit in on the conference. Ask them what they do when the child doesn't follow directions at home. They may not be in control of this child and you may have to proceed on your own. Try to get them to participate in "helping your child improve her behavior".
4. Try to greet this child at the door each morning and say something positive... Comment on an article of clothing or notice a haircut, different pair of shoes, etc. "Catch" this child being good. Give positive verbal reinforcement whenever you can. Praise in public, discipline in private. try not to do it in front of the class.
5. Have the child earn a reward. A behavior chart may be needed...Every 45 minutes or so go over to the child and her chart to give the smiley face for doing the 1 or 2 things she needs to do (see #2). "You stayed in your area..You earned a smiley face." Or "You got out of your area. You did not earn a smiley face. You will have another chance during _____(next time frame)" ..find out what she likes...could be lunch with you, extra computer time, special art, etc. X number of Smiley faces on a behavior chart earns the reward. Don't require a perfect day... She may need 3 out of 5 smiley faces in one day to earn the reward. As a kinder child, she needs frequent rewards.
5. Let the principal know that you are being pro-active about this situation and that you are willing to learn new techniques. Keep her posted. Get her on your side as part of the problem solving team for this child. The last thing you want is for her to find out from another parent.
6. No one is perfect. Try to view this as a learning situation. I know that you are doing your best.
7. Give yourself some treat..special food, relaxing bath, massage, etc. You deserve to feel special.
8. Be sure to eat well and take vitamins. A child like this can wear you down. Get to bed on time.
9. Hang in there, Tiger!
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