Keeping Track of Positive Behavior

Hello Everyone,

It's been a while! Winters are rough in Canada! We Canadians tend to hibernate! 

I am excited to be back and most especially because I get to share one of my FAVORITE and most important organization tricks from my classroom.

I'm teaming up with my friends from Primary Powers to share some amazing organization tips to use in almost any classroom! This hop is filled with all kinds of great ideas!

I am a firm believer that positive reinforcement is the most important tool in any classroom. Students respond best to teachers who believe in them and make them feel good about themselves. 

I think it is also important to let parents know when a student has made progress or done something great in class. I like to make sure that each student gets a positive note or call home, every month. The students are so proud and the parents truly appreciate that we take a minute to recognize their child in a positive way.

Sometimes, however, we become preoccupied with all the things we have to get done and forget to send that quick note or make that fast call. This is when my little organization tool comes in handy!

It's basically a little "booklet" that consists of three columns: Student name, check box (to check when the note or call has been made), and a description box (to write down what the student has done). I print a new "booklet" at the beginning of each month and write down the positive behavior next to the student names. These can range from being kind to a friend, to having all of their supplies ready, to moving up a level in reading. Anything that shows growth, progress, improvement, etc... 

At the end of each week, I look at my "booklet" and make sure to inform the parents of these great happenings! Then, I put a check next to the student names. 

I also really like this tool because it makes me aware of who I need to pay more attention to (in a positive way). If it's been three weeks and I haven't found something positive to say about a student, I have to change my approach with that child and find a way to bring out the best in him/her. 

Hope this little trick helps you in your classroom!

It's quick and easy to use and the rewards of telling parents about how great their kids are is wonderful!

Hop on over to First Grade Smiles to read Melissa's great tips on Binder Covers. 

Until next time...