-
Ages 5-10
Children in this age group require a lot of structure. It is very important to set rules and consequences in place ahead of time and to be consistent with your discipline/reward systems. These students strive to make their teachers happy and respond positively to positive recognition, encouragement, and praise. It is important to give them lots of attention for good behaviors and do not argue with them over bad behaviors- rather be firm and consistent with your expectations. -
Ages 11-13
At this age, children are going through many different bodily/hormonal changes that can cause embarrassment and self-consciousness and peer pressure in intense. These students are increasingly independent and want to make their own decisions. They want guidance from parents and teachers but do not want to be lectured and nagged. It is important to give them more responsibilities and then let them learn from their consequences. Rules should be few in number but consistently enforced. -
Ages 14-18
Hormones, attitudes, and emotions may be running high with this age group. They may start rebelling and questioning authority more and more and they want to make all of their own decisions because they think they know best. Most of the time it will be best to let students make their own mistakes and learn from them otherwise they may try to rebel even more. Students still need structure in the classroom and expectations should be clearly outlined with them. Again, consistency is key.
