Avsnitt
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Do you feel stuck in a constant cycle of addressing challenging behaviour in the classroom?
What if there was a small, intentional act that could shift the focus, rebuild trust, and nurture the emotional wellbeing of your most challenging students?In this episode of Quick Wins, we explore a simple yet powerful strategy called Positive Post-Its. This small action has the potential to create profound changes for both you and your students.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Why students with challenging behaviour often miss out on positive interactions and how this impacts them.The power of small, intentional gestures to change the narrative in your classroom.My personal experiment with Positive Post-Its and the incredible impact it had on my students.How you can start using this simple strategy immediately to build connection and trust.Positive Post-Its are a small but impactful way to show students they are noticed, valued, and capable of change. By intentionally focusing on the positives, even on difficult days, you can strengthen relationships and create an environment where growth becomes possible.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Exit tasks
Exit slips
Plenaries
Whatever you want to call them...
...they are SO much more than just a tool to consolidate learning or tick off reflection and self-assessment boxes.
When used effectively, they:
👉 Reinforce engagement and behaviour expectations.
👉 Encourage work completion by becoming part of your routine.
👉 Show students you care if they engage or finish their work!!However, in reality...
Students can quickly become bored of them because the language is the same.
It can feel a little forced, especially as an exit routine if you’re trying to think of plenaries every day.
It adds extra work to our plates coming up with these exit tasks and then checking them!That's where this episode comes in. I'm sharing 10 of my no-prep exit questions you can use immediately. These ideas are fun, flexible, and designed to help you feel calm and in control, while keeping your students engaged.
THE EXIT TASKS:
Here are my 10 exit tasks that you can copy and write up on the board at a moments notice. And of course if you like these, you can grab my teacher favourite 'Exit Doors' presentation with a bunch of other exit routine goodies inside of The Behaviour Club, or at the-unteachables.com/exit
1. Teach a Teenie - Imagine you had to explain what you learned in today’s lesson to somebody much younger than you. How might you explain it in the simplest way possible so that they would understand?2. Hi-5 facts - Draw an outline of your hand. On the palm, write down what you think the main idea or main takeaway from the lesson has been. On each finger, write down one small fact that you learned
3. $3 Summary - Imagine each word that you write is worth 10c. Write a $3 summary of what you learned in today’s lesson. For example, this sentence is worth $1.30 because it is 13 words long! (Change the currency to whatever your local currency is)
4. Catch-up Notes - Imagine one of your friends was absent from class today. Write a list of 5 main things they would need to know from today’s lesson to be all caught up.
5. Beat the Teacher - Based on what you learnt today, come up with a quiz question that you think can stump the teacher! Write it down and be ready to test it out.
6. One Word - If you had to sum up everything you learned in today’s lesson in just one word, what would it be? Then, explain why you chose that word.
7. Rock, Paper, Scissors - Write down:
YOUR ROCK: The toughest thing from the lesson
YOUR PAPER: The three most important things to make a note of
YOUR SCISSORS: Something least important you’d cut out.
8.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this episode, I explore one of the simplest yet most powerful tools in your emotional piggybank investment toolkit: positive phone calls home. These small acts of connection can have a monumental impact!
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Why positive phone calls are a game-changer, including how they build trust and transform relationships with students and their families.The impact on students who display challenging behaviours, explaining why these children often miss out on positive recognition and how this small step can change their narrative.A simple action plan for making a positive call, with step-by-step guidance and a script to help you get started.The ripple effect of connection, describing how a single phone call can spark long-term behaviour change and stronger communication.Your quick-win challenge this week:
Commit to just one positive call home. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or lengthy, just heartfelt. Use the script provided in this episode to introduce yourself, share specific positives, and open the door for future communication.
Connection is the cornerstone of teaching. Behaviour change will not happen overnight, but every small step matters. Start with one moment of connection, one positive call, and one narrative shift. You’ve got this, wonderful teacher!
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Does this sound familiar? The final moments of your lesson feel chaotic... unfinished, rushed work, students hovering by the door, mess everywhere, disruption, noise, and disorganisation leaving you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated?
If this sounds all too familiar, you are not alone. The good news is that with consistent, simple exit routines, you can transition out of your lesson calmly and purposefully without feeling like a bouncer at the door.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
1. Why exit routines are essential:
Small, consistent steps at the end of a lesson do more than tidy up; they reinforce engagement, help wrap up the learning, and make classroom transitions less stressful.2. My 3 non-negotiable exit routines:
Self-reflection for early finishers – Teach students to ask, "Am I really done?" with an anchor chart that encourages independence and self-checking.Plenaries that stick – Wrap up the learning in a way that reinforces key concepts and expectations without falling into the trap of "death by plenary."The ‘row by row you go’ method – Use a clear, calm system for exiting the classroom that ensures it stays tidy and ready for the next group.3. Practical tools to streamline your routines:
From self-reflection prompts to ready-to-go plenary resources, learn how to save time while keeping students engaged and ensuring smooth transitions.
When you embed these three routines into every lesson, you can:
✅ Reinforce behaviour and work expectations consistently
✅ Avoid the chaos that often accompanies lesson endings
✅ Create a calm, controlled environment that allows for smooth transitionsReady to take the stress out of your lesson endings? Grab the resources mentioned in this episode inside The Behaviour Club or check out:
The Exit Routine Bundle: the-unteachables.com/exit
The Early Finishers Bundle: the-unteachables.com/earlyfinishers
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
This week’s challenge is all about warm welcomes. While it sounds simple, doing it with intention and consistency can completely transform the culture and community in your classroom.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Why warm welcomes matter, and how greeting each student contributes to their emotional piggy bank, boosts buy-in, and improves behaviour.The power of routines, and why predictability helps students come to class more regulated and ready to learn.Breaking negative cycles, and how a consistent, personal greeting can help reach even the toughest students.Practical tips, including easy ways to make warm welcomes fun, personal, and consistent even on chaotic days.QUICK WIN CHALLENGE:
This week, stand at the door and warmly welcome each student as they enter.
Keep it simple by using a smile, eye contact, and their name.Add novelty by letting students choose their own greetings, such as a wave, fist bump, or handshake.Use visual prompts like a greetings poster on the wall, which can make the routine fun and help you stay consistent on busy days.This is not about being fancy. It is about being intentional and consistent, showing each student that they are seen and valued as part of your classroom community.
Head here to grab my ready-made warm welcomes posters!
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Do you have a student who feels impossible to reach? You're not alone. As the summer holidays wind down, you might find yourself thinking about that student. They’re the one you’ve struggled with before, or the one whose reputation precedes them. It’s tough, and it’s okay to admit that. The good news is that you have the power to press the reset button and make this year better for them and for you.
In this episode, I’m sharing practical strategies to help you break the cycle of negativity and start fresh. Whether you’re reflecting on last year or preparing for what’s ahead, this episode focuses on shifting your mindset, building bridges, and creating a plan for success.
If you’re part of The Behaviour Club, be sure to check out this month’s training, Pressing Reset. It takes a deeper dive into this topic and provides a step-by-step plan to transform your approach.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Reframing your mindset: How separating the child from their behaviours can shift your perspective and open the door to connection.The power of a reset chat: Why starting the year with an open and collaborative conversation can plant the seeds for change.Building trust through small actions: How investing in their emotional piggy bank and catching the positive can transform your relationship over time.Practical strategies you can implement today to prepare for a better year with that tough-to-teach student.Behaviour change takes time, but every small step you take creates a ripple effect. Focus on what you can control, and you’ll be amazed at what’s possible!
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Are you heading back to school and wondering how to set expectations that your students will actually follow, all while building a positive classroom culture?
You’re not alone, my friend! This is the top question I’ve been asked by teachers! In today’s episode, I’m tackling how to balance expectation-setting and relationship-building right from the start of the school year. Spoiler alert: yes, you can smile before Easter and still set boundaries that your students respect.
Whether you’re feeling the back-to-school panic or you’re already knee-deep in planning, this episode is full of actionable tips to make the transition smooth, enjoyable, and effective.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The real goal for your first day back: It’s not just rules and routines. It’s buy-in! Learn why this is the cornerstone of everything you want to achieve.Why “Don’t smile until Easter” is bad advice: Discover how strategic use of your non-verbal cues can build credibility and connection at the same time.Three non-negotiables for the first week: From learning names to icebreakers and collaborative expectation-setting, I share how to establish a classroom culture that’s safe, seen, and heard.How to make expectations a living, breathing framework: Move beyond “stick-it-on-the-wall” rules and create a year-long dialogue around shared values and consequences.Take the Stress Out of Back-to-School Planning!
Behaviour Club Members: Access my full library of icebreakers, expectations lessons, and more!Not a member yet? Grab my Back to School Bundle for instant access to everything you need to hit the ground running.Let’s make 2025 the year classroom management feels more human and less like crowd control.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Episode 100!!! (AND the last episode of 2024) is both a reflection and a reminder—a moment to pause and think about what truly fills your cup during the holidays. Teaching can be all-consuming, and it’s vital to find ways to not just rest but to feel rejuvenated and reconnected with yourself.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Why resting isn’t always enough – the difference between rest and rejuvenation.The 5 basic needs cups from choice theory – love and belonging, fun, survival, mastery and power, and freedom.Identifying how you're truly feeling – and how to intentionally fill your cups in ways that align with your unique needs.The importance of prioritising your wellbeing – because the work we do as teachers depends on it.As this year comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on how you feel and what you need. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, reigniting a hobby, or simply taking time to rest, be intentional about filling the cups that leave you feeling whole.
If you’ve enjoyed the podcast this year, I’d be so grateful if you could leave a review—it would mean the world to me. Thank you for letting me support you throughout 2024. I can’t wait to bring you fresh episodes, new ideas, and plenty of support in the new year.
Sending all my love, and as my little one says, “bye bye, ta ta, see you later!” 💛
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
The festive season can be a fun time for us as teachers, and our students—but not for everyone. While many of us are busy planning celebrations and gifts, some of our students face unique challenges. For them, the holiday season might bring stress, instability, or hardship. In this episode, I offer a compassionate reminder about the reality some of our students face and how we, as educators, can make a difference in their experience.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The reality of the holiday season for some students – why it’s not a joyful time for everyone.The impact of the holidays on student behaviour – understanding increased reactivity, withdrawal, and emotional dysregulation.Practical steps to support students during this season – strategies for consistency, connection, and fostering felt-safety in your classroom.The holidays can highlight the disparity in experiences among students, and for some, your classroom might be the only consistent, safe space they know. By recognising this and doubling down on your routines, expectations, and community-building, you can offer them much-needed stability.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
As we near the end of the term, the classroom energy can get... let's say, a little extra. Sound familiar? 😉 That’s why this week, I want to share 5 powerful questions you can ask your students to foster an attitude of gratitude while bringing focus and positivity into the room.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Why gratitude is powerful: The benefits for both students and teachers.5 key questions to foster an attitude of gratitude: Easy, thought-provoking prompts that spark connection and reflection.How to make gratitude work for all students: Ideas for engagement, even for those reluctant to participate.
What is something that you are glad for every day?Look around the classroom and find one object you are grateful for. Why?When was the last time you belly laughed?What do you most look forward to when you wake up in the morning?What’s one thing that makes you say, ‘I’m glad to be me’?
HERE ARE THE QUESTIONS IN ONE PLACE:Pro tip: Model your own answers to these questions first—it helps students think creatively and feel comfortable sharing!
If you’re in the Behaviour Club, check out this month’s Gratitude Resource Pack! It’s packed with 29 conversation cards, gratitude bingo, and task cards to help embed these ideas into your classroom.
Not in The Behaviour Club? You can grab those resources separately here!Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Ever had a class party or more relaxed and unstructured activities spiral into mayhem??? That doesn't mean you shouldn't do it, it just means you need to do it right!
In today's bite I take you through how adding structure to your festive plans can keep things fun, calm, and enjoyable for everyone (yourself included!).
Why end-of-year celebrations can feel overwhelming: Understanding what makes this time of year tricky.How to pair fun with predictability: Simple strategies to create structure while still enjoying the moment.Practical engagement tips: Ideas to keep students focused and reduce chaos during activities.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:Celebrate away, but remember: Pair the party with predictability 🎄
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Are you feeling the strain of the end-of-year chaos in the classroom?
Why this time of year is so challenging: Understanding the factors behind the end-of-year chaos.Three go-to games you can use in a pinch to upregulate or downregulate student energy, all while keeping the classroom fun and functional.How to lean into the festive energy: Tips for embracing the chaos while controlling what you can control.
“My students are apathetic and completely checked out!”
“Chattiness, off-task behaviours, and disruptions are at an all-time high!”
“Some behaviour has majorly escalated!”
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
The combination of tired students, tired teachers, heightened excitement, and a lack of routine can wreak havoc on behaviour. But with a little prep (and a few no-prep strategies), you can channel that energy effectively—and get to the end of the year... dare I say, not just surviving, but thriving!!
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Grab the brain break bundle: 6 games (600+ questions) to use each and every day to channel energy, build rapport, boost engagement, and encourage a positive, connected, class community.Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Imagine being 12 years old and feeling lost in a classroom. School has always been a struggle, and instead of admitting your confusion, you become the class clown, distracting yourself and your friends. When the teacher calls you out, you know the drill—nod along and wait for the inevitable lecture.
That lecture? Like water off a duck’s back!
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The cycle of disengagement: Lecturing students about their behaviour often leads them to tune out, allowing them to avoid taking real accountability. This just perpetuates the same patterns when they return to class.Shifting from lecturing to guiding: By using strategic questions, we can encourage students to reflect on their actions and understand the impact of their behaviour.Empowering student reflection: When students contribute to the conversation, they become active participants in their own learning and behaviour management, rather than passive recipients of criticism.This week, observe your language when discussing behaviour with students:
Are you talking more than listening?Are you telling more than asking?Challenge yourself to become a guide instead of a lecturer.Notice how this shift influences your conversations and helps students take ownership of their actions.
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Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Are your students arriving late or missing class altogether?
In this episode, we’ll explore why punitive measures often backfire and how they can alienate the very students who need connection the most.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The pitfalls of punishment: While it may seem like a way to enforce attendance, punishment can foster resentment and disconnect, driving students further away from the classroom.Understanding the reasons behind absenteeism: Many factors influencing attendance are beyond the students’ control, including personal circumstances and mental health challenges.The importance of compassionate expectations: It’s crucial to maintain high standards while approaching students with empathy and understanding.5 Practical strategies for improving attendance with understanding, compassion and reflection.The key takeaway from this episode is clear: we cannot lecture or punish our way to better attendance. Instead, we must focus on connection, celebrating progress, and having difficult yet supportive conversations.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
When we think of classroom management, our minds often jump to techniques and strategies we implement with our students. However, the most effective management often occurs even before they enter the room. In today’s behaviour bite, I’ll discuss the crucial role of the physical classroom environment itself. It can serve as an invaluable teaching assistant or become a significant roadblock.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The impact of a clean and clutter-free classroom: A tidy environment sends powerful non-verbal messages to students about expectations, respect, and focus.The consequences of a messy space: When students enter a chaotic room, they may internalise the belief that cleanliness and respect for the learning environment don’t matter.The benefits of a well-organised classroom: A neat setup with resources ready and a clear agenda helps establish a positive tone and reinforces the importance of taking care of the space.Action steps to improve your classroom environment: I challenge you to reflect on the messages your space conveys and implement one small change this week to create a more supportive learning atmosphere.By making these intentional adjustments, you can help your students feel anchored and ready to learn. These small changes will bolster your classroom management and foster a culture where all students work together to maintain a positive learning environment.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
You’ve finally set the stage for a productive lesson… and then the chaos begins!
This month on the podcast, we’re honing in on those critical first five minutes—the bedrock of an engaging and settled classroom environment.
I’ll be outlining key strategies to help you create a smooth start, including how to shift students’ energy with entry routines and effective starter activities.But what happens if you don’t engage your students right away? Something else will!
In this episode, we’ll explore the importance of starter activities and how they can either make or break your lesson’s flow.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The role of starter activities: These brief, independent tasks serve as the hook to draw students into the lesson. They need to be achievable, explicit, and timed perfectly to set a positive tone.Common mistakes with starter activities: I highlight pitfalls to avoid, such as relying on prior knowledge, requiring too much explanation, or lacking relevance to students’ interests.How consistency builds trust: Establishing a predictable routine helps students feel secure and ready to learn as they enter the classroom.Effective starter activity examples: I share ideas like imaginative prompts that connect students to the lesson and concept-based tasks that allow for differentiated engagement.GRAB MY 250+ AGENDA SLIDES WITH STARTERS HERE!
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Do you often find yourself reminding the same students about the same expectations? It’s draining, and it can start to feel personal, leading to unnecessary confrontations.
Here’s a simple shift that can transform this dynamic:
Make it about the visual. NOT about you!Instead of verbally repeating instructions, point to a visual cue on the wall, like a poster of class expectations or a checklist. This shifts the focus from “you vs. me” to a shared goal that everyone can see.
In this episode, we look at simple visuals—like classroom norms posters, voice level charts, and “Steps for Success” checklists—that can transform your classroom dynamic. With just a quick gesture, you’re reinforcing standards without confrontation, helping students take more responsibility and saving your energy.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
You’ve FINALLY gotten your students settled and started at the start of the lesson… cue… the disruptive latecomer!
This month on the podcast, I'm focusing on the first five minutes of each lesson—the foundation of a calm, connected start. However, even with a solid roadmap that guides teachers in creating a smooth start with key strategies, like shifting students’ energy through entry routines, engaging starters, and seamless transitions... there's one big wrench that can throw off this plan: when students arrive late.
In this episode, we’ll dive into why students might be late and practical steps to get them on track without disrupting the flow.IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The many reasons behind lateness: Beyond just "running late," chronic lateness can stem from factors like family routines, neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD or autism), and executive function challenges. We also touch on how needs-based motivation can play into students’ timing.Practical steps to manage late arrivals: I share ways to welcome students in without disrupting the rest of the class. How to increase accountability and connection through private follow-ups: For repeated lateness, I discuss questions and prompts that encourage students to reflect on the reasons behind their lateness, explore if it’s in their control, and collaboratively make a plan to help them improve.Low-stakes latecomer tasks and routines: My top tips for engaging students that are late, without derailing the lesson.Late arrivals don’t always have to disrupt your lesson flow!! You just need the right tools to approach them consistently, and calmly.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Today’s Behaviour Bite is all about a simple yet powerful practice: asking and pausing—for much longer than you (probably) already do.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
The common tendency among teachers to rush through questions: After asking if there are any questions, many of us move on immediately, often before giving students a chance to respond. Research shows that the average pause is just 0.9 seconds—far too short for effective processing.Understanding different types of thinkers: Some students process information internally, while others think out loud. Those who need time to reflect often don’t feel comfortable speaking up if we don’t allow enough pause. By waiting longer, we create space for all students to formulate their thoughts and questions.The impact of extended wait times: Studies indicate that 5-15 seconds of silence can significantly enhance student engagement and response quality. For example, when giving instructions, you can say, “Okay Year 8, before we get started, what questions do you have? I’ll give you 10 seconds to think.” This approach encourages deeper reflection and more meaningful contributions.This week, challenge yourself to extend your pauses when asking questions or giving instructions. Tune in to how much time you currently provide and consciously increase it. Observe how this impacts your students' clarity and the depth of their responses during discussions.
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website -
Are you struggling with having a settled start to the lesson? Battling dysregulation and high energy?
In today’s episode, we’re exploring the importance of the First 5—those critical first five minutes of each lesson.
This time can make all the difference in shifting energy from the chaos of transitions to a calm, focused learning environment. We’ll dive into practical strategies for creating an “invisible barrier” that allows students to enter a space primed for learning, leaving the outside energy at the door.
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:
Why the start of lessons can feel chaotic: From dysregulation and unpredictability to the residual energy of breaks, many factors beyond our control impact students’ readiness.What we can control: We’ll go over strategies for creating routines, setting expectations, and managing the physical environment to help students transition smoothly.Three essential routines for the First 5: I’ll share my personal non-negotiables that create consistency and predictability every day:Same welcome spot—Greeting students outside to create a transition from the hallway energy.Same seating arrangement—Reducing guesswork and enhancing predictability.Same starter routine—A consistent, engaging start to every lesson that signals it’s time to focus.Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
Resources and links:
Take the "What's Your Teacher Type" Quiz Join The Behaviour Club My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp Browse all resources on TPT Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'Connect with me:
Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables Check out my website - Visa fler
