7 Simple Steps for Discipline in the Classroom

“That’s it, I’ve had it!” I shouted.  It was not one of my finer moments as a homeschooling mom.

I learned if I wanted my kids to focus then I need find discipline in the classroom. After thinking about it for a while I came up with this list. So if you are looking for discipline in the classroom because of bad attitudes maybe, just maybe these tips will work for you too!

Here are seven practical tips to fight against bad attitudes during school.

1. Check for illness.

Recently, my daughter refused to do their best in school. I gave her a consequence for her poor behaviour. She ended up with a fever at the end of the day. I felt like a terrible mother. Of course, she was entitled to special treatment to nurse her back to health.

2. Does your child get enough rest?

Studies have shown children ages, 3-6, require 10-12 hours per day. Older children ages, 7-12, need 10-11 hours per day. That’s a lot of sleep! Add the required energy school takes and the rushing to and from activities. We have a recipe for Grumpy Kids!

The antidote: establish regular bedtime routines and minimize schedules. Our kids do NOT need to be in every activity nor do we need to attend every event…this will save your sanity as well!

3. Snack Time!

When the grumps begin to set in offer nutritious snacks: Raisin boxes, Fruit slices, veggies stick, with yogurt or peanut butter as a dip. Stove Top Popcorn is one of our favourite snacks it is much cheaper and healthier than microwave and just as easy!

Stove Top Popcorn: A small amount of olive oil in the bottom of a wok (or any pan), kernels to cover the bottom, set on a medium/high heat and three minutes later – Fresh popcorn!

4. Take lots of breaks.

Those little minds can only take in so much at a time. As their brains heat up and begin to smoke, take a few minutes to cool down before trying again. Schedule days off to play or time to go to the park and explore. If doing so cramps your schedule, see tip #2 and minimize your family schedule.As the weather cools allow them to play educational online games or play school apps on the tablet/iPad.

     5. Good Ol’ Self Discipline.

If it takes a willing adult 21 days to establish a routine, then it will take a child much longer. Set realistic goals with consequences and rewards – then stick with it.

Self-Control is a fruit of the spirit mentioned in Gal 5:22-23. As homeschool moms we have the privilege (at least we usually call it a privilege!) to teach our children the wisdom of self-discipline.

6. Call a friend

We need encouragement.  We can’t do this alone. Homeschooling is a sacrifice. It’s not easy – it takes diligence and daily grace from God! We have all had a bad day, days we have failed, and days we question the whole idea and day-dream of school registration. Keep at it, those days are few a far between once our routine is established.

7. Don’t skip the daily devotional
   

   It’s easy to jump into the day without our dd. Our daily devotional is essential to our day! Welcoming God into our day will minimize the insanity and bring peace into our day. It gives us a chance to seek wisdom and teaches our children to do the same.

8. Drink Tea

   If we want our kids to be their best we must preform our best. Tea helps with calming and clarity. Plus, it tastes great! Black tea have the caffeine necessary to make it thought the day. Unlike coffee, tea will not give the jitters. Green tea helps with a vast amount ailments and aids relaxation, plus it has a moderate amount of caffeine. Herbal teas are a great way to wind down in the evening, as they are naturally caffeine free. I enjoy Sleepy Dreams, Vanilla Bean Chai, and Berry Blast.

Relax mamma, you can do this! In the meantime, go here for tips on how to reduce stress to help you relax. 

 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9