Table of Contents 1. Establish Clear Rules from Day One – Involve students in setting them 2. Be Consistent with Consequences – Fair and predictable enforcement builds trust 3. Use Positive Reinforcement – Praise, rewards, or privileges for good behaviour 4. Apply the “Proximity Effect” – Move around the room to manage behaviour subtly 5. Develop Non-Verbal Signals – Use hand gestures, eye contact, or claps to refocus attention 6. Use a Clear and Calm Voice – Avoid yelling; tone can de-escalate issues 7. Practice “Withitness” – Stay aware of everything happening in the room 8. Design Routines for Everything – Entry, exit, transitions, materials handling 9. Build Relationships – Learn about your students and show empathy 10. Model Respectful Behaviour – What you do teaches more than what you say 11. Set Behaviour Expectations for Group Work – Define roles and collaboration norms 12. Use Time Limits Effectively – Keep students focused and accountable 13. Incorporate Brain Breaks – Short activities to reset energy and focus 14. Apply the “Least Invasive” Intervention First – Gentle cues before stronger action 15. Document Behaviour Patterns – Helps with parent communication and interventions 16. Use Restorative Practices – Promote reflection and reconciliation over punishment 17. Teach Self-Regulation Techniques – Breathing, counting, journaling for emotional control 18. Incorporate Student Voice – Let students help create behaviour contracts 19. Create a Class Mission Statement – Shared values can guide behaviour 20. Use Class Jobs – Builds responsibility and ownership 21. Avoid Power Struggles – Stay calm and redirect rather than escalate 22. Implement “Think Sheets” – Let students reflect on behaviour privately 23. Use Humour Appropriately – Builds connection and eases tension 24. Have a Calm-Down Area – A quiet space for emotional reset 25. Hold Regular Class Meetings – Discuss issues, celebrate progress, and build community