Over the years I have tried numerous and various behavior management systems in my classroom. While they were all good, like fashion, they seemed to fade and pass for me after a while. Like overalls for example...they do the job. They're comfortable. Keep you covered and clothed which is most important. But over time, you realize, they just don't work for you anymore. That's how I feel in the classroom sometimes. I like to tell people I like to reinvent the wheel and add more work for myself. Do I really? No. Of course not. Am I particular and like to change things up after a while? Absolutely!! My behavior management systems seem to be just like that for me.
I think the main idea is that as long as students know that there are expectations and your classroom foundation of respect and responsibility is set from the very beginning of the year, it really doesn't matter which behavior management system you use... That being said, I don't always jump on the bandwagon with new trends immediately. I like to get a feel for them, get my feet wet a bit, and then dive in. So...I waited as it seemed everyone around me began purchasing and assembling their new clip charts to use in their classrooms. There are MILLIONS of talented and creative people out there and I have seen a lot of great charts, but again, I stalled. I continued using my old school "flip a card" method. Overalls. Again. It worked. It did the job. It kept the classroom covered as far as behavior expectations and consequences. Didn't love it. But it functioned.
Last summer I made the plunge and decided after seeing some great wording out there that I would invest the time to create my own chart. So that's what I did! I added extra wording on mine about power and choices because I wanted to send a clear message to students that this chart would solely fall on them taking ownership for their actions...successes or mistakes. I piloted it this past school year and absolutely LOVED it!!! I watched their little toothless faces light up as they were asked to move a clip up which made me often wonder why I waited so long to make this change.
Anyway, remember that reinventing the wheel thing??? Well, since I couldn't just hang a chart in my room to use, I decided it must be very purposeful and clear to both parents and students. I added a parent letter and behavior note (for those days when things just don't go well...). Which got me thinking about all the good kiddos..... How do their parents know they are always "good?" So back to the computer. I created monthly calendars for students to keep in their home folders and fill out daily to discuss with parents at home. Lo and behold, my labor of love came to fruition. A thorough, clear, purposeful, positive behavior management system to use for many years....Or until I ditch those overalls.
Sound like something you would be interested in using in your classroom?? Check it out!!
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