How to resolve classroom discipline problems without saying a thing

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As much as we don’t want to admit it, we all experience classroom discipline issues.  Some years, disciplinary problems are relatively nonexistent, but other years these hurdles seem insurmountable.  Therefore, finding appropriate ways to rectify misbehavior without losing valuable learning time is the goal of every teacher.  

Discover three easy to implement classroom discipline ideas that will discourage negative behavior and will resolve issues.  And the best part is…you never have to say a word!

Non-Verbal Classroom Discipline Ideas

1. Eye Contact

This may seem pretty obvious, but eye contact is one of the best examples of nonverbal cues in the classroom.  Think about it like this…when you were growing up in church, did you ever receive the “stink eye” from one of your parents because you were talking or giggling?  As soon as your eyes met theirs, you knew you’d better shut up or you were getting your butt torn off.

Welcome to the power of eye contact.

Eye Contact in the Classroom

Using this effectively in the classroom is no different.  If you notice a child is misbehaving or simply off-task, look them right in the eye and raise your eyebrows.  

This is the universal sign for “I see you, and now you know that I see you…so you had better get it together.”  Also, you can slowly shake your head “no” as a reminder to stop.

If you have a child who is oblivious to your eye contact because they are engrossed in some type of off-task behavior, adding the slightest throat-clearing sound along with a very solemn expression will typically get their attention.

When you notice a student is not engaged or is becoming a distraction to others, the easiest way to get them back on track is to make eye contact with them.  

But what if you’ve cleared your throat, attempted to make eye contact, and shaken your head, but the kid is still off-task?  That is when you add my next favorite non-verbal communication technique in teaching…proximity.

2. Proximity

Another one of my favorite classroom discipline ideas is simply proximity.  If you can’t catch their eyes or you’re dealing with a child who intentionally ignores you, simply begin walking toward them.

My favorite part is you never have to stop teaching to invoke this technique.  As you’re looking around the room and keeping the students’ attention, you’re getting closer and closer to the offender’s desk.

When the student figures out that you are headed toward them, many times they will correct their own behavior.  If I notice they’ve gotten back on task as I get to their desk, I don’t even acknowledge the infraction.  I just keep walking right past that desk and around the room as though that was my intention all along.

3. Using Your Hands

To take this one step farther, place your hand on a child’s desk.  This is just one more non-verbal deterrent to resolve discipline issues that might arise.  It’s also a great way to get the necessary attention quickly.

If I notice a student is playing with something in their desk, I silently walk over to them.  Then I hold out my hand and let them place the item in my hand.  Generally, this solves the problem and we continue on with the lesson.

I don’t say a word to them because I don’t need to.  They typically refocus immediately because I’m standing right beside them and have removed the distraction.  This also doesn’t interrupt the flow of the lesson.  Many of the other kids aren’t even aware of what’s going on.  Which is the ultimate goal!

The Most Important Thing to Remember

Unfortunately, discipline issues arise in every classroom.  With that many different people and personalities in one space, some problems are bound to happen.  

And that is why it is so important to implement new classroom discipline ideas that provide solutions and do not humiliate.  Remember, the kids who tend to be disciplinary “repeat offenders” are typically the ones in desperate need of love and attention.

We all know that classroom discipline ideas are needed in every grade from kindergarten to middle school and even into high school. Creating systems and effectively implementing these strategies is essential. But how? Find 3 non-verbal cues that will correct disciplinary issues and you don't have to say a single word. #classroomdiscipline #education #teaching #teachers #classroommanagement

Learning how to handle classroom discipline issues will be a lifelong process.  Each year will present new challenges.  However, these classroom discipline ideas will make the biggest difference in starting the school year in total upheaval versus one in complete control.  

By introducing these preventative discipline techniques into your daily routine, you will find your instructional time increasing and the disciplinary issues decreasing!