THE RULES OF THE CLASSROOM

Rules help children feel secure and know what behavior is expected of them. Here are a few simple rules that children can review with a chant and dance each morning.

Rules Rap
Chorus:
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom. (Snap fingers.)
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom.

Follow, follow, follow directions, (Point index fingers.)
Follow, follow, follow directions. Chorus

Feet and hands, feet and hands, (Point to feet and hands.)
Feet and hands to yourself. Chorus

Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. (Quiet and loud voice.)
Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. Chorus

Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. (Clasp hands.)
Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. Chorus

Click to view

Class Rule Book

After teaching the class the “Rules Rap” discuss why rules are important. Say, “I know everyone in our class has a good rule to share with us.” Give each child a sheet of paper to draw a rule. Older students can write the rule and younger students can dictate the rule. Put their rules together, make a cover, and bind to make a book. Explain that when adults agree to do something they sign a contract. Invite the children to sign their names on the book to indicate they agree to the rules. When children are doing something they shouldn’t be doing take the book and point to a page as you say, “Look, it says _______ in the book. Show me the right thing to do.” (Most of them can’t read anyway, so you can turn to any page in the book!)

If You Don't Know What to Do

Here's a song to "If You're Happy and You Know It" that will suggest a positive model for children who are not following directions.

If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).
If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).
He/she will show you what to do so you can do it, too.
If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).


Behavior Management
Circle time is the perfect opportunity to discuss behavior problems. Explain, “I’ve noticed problem. I need your help to figure out how we can solve this problem. Let’s brainstorm to see how we can fix it.”

Note! Accept all responses and then summarize at the end. 

DR. KNICKERBOCKER - Two versions

Children can learn to listen and follow directions in a fun with with Dr. Knickerbocker.

https://bit.ly/drJKnicker

Longer version: https://bit.ly/drJKnickerLong

 

THE RULES RAP

Do you remember Deputy Barney Fife from Mayberry RFD? One of his favorite sayings was “nip it in the bud.” That’s something to take to heart as the school year starts. Take your time to teach rules and routines and the rest of your year will go much smoother.

Rules help children feel secure and know what behavior is expected of them. Choose a few simple rules and state them in a positive way. You can get a free download of this “Rules Rap” from my website this month.

Rules Rap
Chorus:
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom. (Snap fingers.)
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom.

Follow, follow, follow directions, (Point index fingers.)
Follow, follow, follow directions. Chorus

Feet and hands, feet and hands, (Point to feet and hands.)
Feet and hands to yourself. Chorus

Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground.
(Quiet voice, then loud voice.)
Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. Chorus

Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble.
(Clasp hands, then hold nose.)
Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. Chorus
YEAH!

Here's a video where your children can do the "Rules Rap" with me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z60vA7vVYUY

After teaching the class the “Rules Rap” discuss why rules are important. Say, “I know everyone in our class has a good rule to share with us.” Give each child a sheet of paper to draw a rule. Older students can write the rule and younger students can dictate the rule. Put their rules together, make a cover, and bind to make a book. Explain that when adults agree to do something they sign a contract. “Everyone made these rules. Are you all going to obey these rules? (Of course, they’ll agree!) Then I’m going to let you put your thumb on an ink pad and stamp your thumbprint on our book to show that you will abide by these rules.” 

When children are doing something they shouldn’t be doing take the book and point to a page as you say, “Look, it says _______ in the book. Show me the right thing to do.” (Most of them can’t read anyway, so you can turn to any page in the book!)

If You Don't Know What to Do
Here's a song to "If You're Happy and You Know It" that will suggest a positive model for children who are not following directions.

If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).
If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).
He/she will show you what to do so you can do it, too.
If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).

SECRETS OF CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT

As I was going through some old files I came across a handout titled “Top Ten Secrets of Classroom Management.” Although it was written years ago, I believe the points are as timely as ever. It was a reminder once again that GOOD TEACHING IS GOOD TEACHING! I hope you’ll find at least one or two tips that will ring clear for you this new school year.

1. Be firm, fair, and consistent. (I actually learned this in my first education class. It’s one of those things that sounds simple, but it’s not always easy.)

*Keep cool, calm, and use a quiet voice. (As you lower your voice and breath slowly you will “pull” them in.)


2. Follow a daily schedule and routine.

*Start each day in a happy way. (Of course, a Dr. Jean silly song always works.)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z60vA7vVYUY

*Use routines and rituals. (My handshakes, attention grabbers, and cheers are what I’m talking about.)


3. Communicate clearly and concisely. (Say what you mean and mean what you say.)

*Use your body language, facial expression, and tone of voice. (Develop your own “look” that means “get it together now!”)

*Use sign language.


4. Have classroom rules that are few, simple, and affirmative. 
*Be specific about what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. (You may do this, but you may not do that!)


5. Use positive guidance techniques.

*Redirect. (Give them something positive to do to replace the negative behavior.)

*Natural consequences. (You hurt Juan’s feelings. How can you make him feel better?)

*Discipline in private. (I found it worked best to pull a child quietly aside, hold their hands, look in their eyes, and talk to them about what they needed to do.)


6. Prevent problems whenever possible.

*Divide and conquer. (Separate those trouble makers!)

*Problem solve with the children. (Talk to them when there is a classroom issue. Get their input into how to improve the situation.)

*Observe and document. (Children tell us things by their behavior. Do they argue over a classroom object? Are they fidgety before math? How can you manipulate the environment and schedule to alleviate the issue?)


7. Use a variety of teaching strategies and grouping techniques. (Another timeless tip I learned my first year in college was to vary the instructional strategies. You can’t do the same thing over and over.)

*Large group.
*Small group.
*Independent.
*Choices.


8. Provide children with opportunities to vent energy.

*Brain breaks. (This is nothing new. Children have always needed to wiggle. And teachers need to wiggle, too!)

*Sing and dance. (I’ve got lots of free videos to help you.)

*Exercise.

*Talking recess. (Let them have a babble break and just walk around the room and chit-chat with their friends for a few minutes.)


9. Only do what only you can do!
(Don’t wear yourself out doing menial tasks.)

*Encourage children to accept responsibility.

*Be a model for them. (They won’t know how to wash the tables or put away materials if you don’t demonstrate first.)

*Set high expectations. (It’s amazing what little children can do if you expect it.)


10.Keep a bag of tricks up your sleeve!  

RULES RAP & ITSY BITSY SPIDER

Rules help children feel secure and know what behavior is expected of them. Here are a few simple rules that children can learn in a fun way.

Rules Rap

Chorus:
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom. (Snap fingers.)
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom.

Follow, follow, follow directions, (Point index fingers.)
Follow, follow, follow directions. Chorus

Feet and hands, feet and hands, (Point to feet and hands.)
Feet and hands to yourself. Chorus

Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground.
(Quiet voice, then loud voice.)
Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. Chorus

Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble.
(Clasp hands, then hold nose.)
Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. Chorus
YEAH!

Click here.

 

After teaching the class the “Rules Rap” discuss why rules are important. Say, “I know everyone in our class has a good rule to share with us.” Give each child a sheet of paper to draw a rule. Older students can write the rule and younger students can dictate the rule. Put their rules together, make a cover, and bind to make a book. Explain that when adults agree to do something they sign a contract. “Everyone made these rules. Are you all going to obey these rules? (Of course, they’ll agree!) Then I’m going to let you put your thumb on an ink pad and stamp your thumbprint on our book to show that you will abide by these rules.”

When children are doing something they shouldn’t be doing take the book and point to a page as you say, “Look, it says _______ in the book. Show me the right thing to do.” (Most of them can’t read anyway, so you can turn to any page in the book!)


The Itsy Bitsy Spider

The itsy bitsy spider (Fingers pretend to
Went up the water spout. climb up in front of you.)
Down came the rain (Wiggle fingers down.)
And washed the spider out. (Cross arms.)
Out came the sun (Make circle above head.)
And dried up all the rain.
And the itsy bitsy spider (Take fingers and climb
Went up the spout again. in front of you.)

The big, fat gorilla… (Sing this version in a loud voice
and make large, exaggerated movements.)

The teensy weensy ant… (Sing in a quiet voice and make very
small motions with your fingers.)

More Spider Versions (Sharon Howard)

After singing the “Itsy Bitsy Spider” let children change what kind of spider it is. It could be happy, mad, mean, angry, silly, pretty princess, etc. Then children decide how that spider would go up the waterspout.

Spider Puppet

You will need paper plates, construction paper, an old sock, markers, and a stapler to make this project. Decorate two plates to look like a spider’s body. Staple the plates together leaving an opening at the top and the bottom. Cut eight - 8” x 1” strips for the spider’s legs. Glue 4 legs on either side of the body. Draw a face on the sock and then stick it through the center of the plates.

          

*You can also make a simple puppet for children by tying a spider ring to a piece of string or yarn.

Spider Applause

Bend down thumbs and touch four fingertips from each hand. Tap gently!

TIPS AND TRICKS - The Rules Rap

Rules help children feel secure and know what behavior is expected of them. Choose a few simple rules and state them in a positive way. 

Hint! This "Rules Rap" will be a fun way to start your day singing and dancing.

Rules Rap
Chorus:
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom. (Snap fingers.)
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom.

Follow, follow, follow directions, (Point index fingers.)
Follow, follow, follow directions. Chorus

Feet and hands, feet and hands, (Point to feet and hands.)
Feet and hands to yourself. Chorus

Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground.
(Quiet voice, then loud voice.)
Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. Chorus

Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble.
(Clasp hands, then hold nose.)
Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. Chorus
YEAH!

Here's a video where your children can do the "Rules Rap" with me.

Click to view video

After teaching the class the “Rules Rap” discuss why rules are important. Say, “I know everyone in our class has a good rule to share with us.” Give each child a sheet of paper to draw a rule. Older students can write the rule and younger students can dictate the rule. Put their rules together, make a cover, and bind to make a book. Explain that when adults agree to do something they sign a contract. “Everyone made these rules. Are you all going to obey these rules? (Of course, they’ll agree!) Then I’m going to let you put your thumb on an ink pad and stamp your thumbprint on our book to show that you will abide by these rules.” 

When children are doing something they shouldn’t be doing take the book and point to a page as you say, “Look, it says _______ in the book. Show me the right thing to do.” 

If You Don't Know What to Do 

Here's a song to "If You're Happy and You Know It" that will suggest a positive model for children who are not following directions.

If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).

If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).

He/she will show you what to do so you can do it, too.

If you don't know what to do, look at (child's name).

TOP TEN SECRETS OF CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT

As I was going through some old files I came across a handout titled “Top Ten Secrets of Classroom Management.” Although it was written years ago, I believe the points are as timely as ever. It was a reminder once again that GOOD TEACHING IS GOOD TEACHING! I hope you’ll find at least one or two tips that will ring clear for you this new school year.

1. Be firm, fair, and consistent. (I actually learned this in my first education class. It’s one of those things that sounds simple, but it’s not always easy.)

*Keep cool, calm, and use a quiet voice. (As you lower your voice and breath slowly you will “pull” them in.)


2. Follow a daily schedule.

*Start each day in a happy way. (Of course, a Dr. Jean silly song always works.)

             
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z60vA7vVYUY

*Use routines and rituals. (My handshakes, attention grabbers, and cheers are what I’m talking about.)


3. Communicate clearly and concisely. (Say what you mean and mean what you say.)

*Use your body language, facial expression, and tone of voice. (Develop your own “look” that means “get it together now!”)

*Use sign language.


4. Have classroom rules that are few, simple, and affirmative. (Let’s hear it for the “Rules Rap.”)

                                   

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z60vA7vVYUY

*Be specific about what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. (You may do this, but you may not do that!)


5. Use positive guidance techniques.

*Redirect. (Give them something positive to do to replace the negative behavior.)

*Natural consequences. (You hurt Juan’s feelings. How can you make him feel better?)

*Discipline in private. (I found it worked best to pull a child quietly aside, hold their hands, look in their eyes, and talk to them about what they needed to do.)


6. Prevent problems whenever possible.

*Divide and conquer. (Separate those trouble makers!)

*Problem solve with the children. (Talk to them when there is a classroom issue. Get their input into how to improve the situation.)

*Observe and document. (Children tell us things by their behavior. Do they argue over a classroom object? Are they fidgety before math? How can you manipulate the environment and schedule to alleviate the issue?)


7. Use a variety of teaching strategies and grouping techniques. (Another timeless tip I learned my first year in college was to vary the instructional strategies. You can’t do the same thing over and over.)

*Large group.
*Small group.
*Independent.
*Choices.


8. Provide children with opportunities to vent energy.

*Brain breaks. (This is nothing new. Children have always needed to wiggle. And teachers need to wiggle, too!)

*Sing and dance. (I’ve got lots of free videos to help you.)

*Exercise.

*Talking recess. (Let them have a babble break and just walk around the room and chit-chat with their friends for a few minutes.)


9. Only do what only you can do!
(Don’t wear yourself out doing menial tasks.)

*Encourage children to accept responsibility.

*Be a model for them. (They won’t know how to wash the tables or put away materials if you don’t demonstrate first.)

*Set high expectations. (It’s amazing what little children can do if you expect it.)


10.Keep a bag of tricks up your sleeve….and that’s what I’ll share with you today! Come back tomorrow for some of those tricks!

ON YOUR MARK!

How are you going to start your first day?  I liked to stand by the door and personally greet each child with a hug or a handshake.  

Note!  If your school is still restricting physical contact, a smile or air hug will go a long way.

Think about the routine you want to use each day and just jump right in...

Do you call it circle time or morning meeting or???  Whatever you call it, choose an active song that you like and use it to get the blood going to the brain and release wiggles.  

It's important to choose a song and do the same song every day.  That way it will become an "indicator activity" and when the children hear it they'll know it's time to get the show started!

These are some of my favorite good morning songs:

Rise and Shine

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyAD2OoFuoY

Feeling Fine 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bm8lk7lvUg

Time to Get Up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39__jCTwNt0

Handshakes
Hopefully, one day soon you will all be able to connect with your children each morning with the sense of touch and a smile from one of my handshakes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaONx6N7-kM

Rules help children feel secure and know what behavior is expected of them. Here are four simple rules stated in a positive way that will be good to start every day.

Rules Rap
Chorus:
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom. (Snap fingers.)
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom.

Follow, follow, follow directions, (Point index fingers.)
Follow, follow, follow directions. Chorus

Feet and hands, feet and hands, (Point to feet and hands.)
Feet and hands to yourself. Chorus

Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground.  
(Quiet voice, then loud voice.)
Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. Chorus

Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble.
(Clasp hands, then hold nose.)
Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. Chorus
YEAH!



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z60vA7vVYUY

Hint!  If children aren't following the rules move close to them, look them in the eyes, and say, "You know what to do."

RULES RAP AND ITSY BITSY SPIDER

Rules help children feel secure and know what behavior is expected of them. Here are a few simple rules that children can learn in a fun way. 

Rules Rap
Chorus:
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom. (Snap fingers.)
The rules, the rules, the rules of the classroom.

Follow, follow, follow directions, (Point index fingers.)
Follow, follow, follow directions. Chorus

Feet and hands, feet and hands, (Point to feet and hands.)
Feet and hands to yourself. Chorus

Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground.
(Quiet voice, then loud voice.)
Small voices inside, tall voices on the playground. Chorus

Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble.
(Clasp hands, then hold nose.)
Work together, don’t fight, or you’ll get in trouble. Chorus
YEAH!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z60vA7vVYUY

After teaching the class the “Rules Rap” discuss why rules are important. Say, “I know everyone in our class has a good rule to share with us.” Give each child a sheet of paper to draw a rule. Older students can write the rule and younger students can dictate the rule. Put their rules together, make a cover, and bind to make a book. Explain that when adults agree to do something they sign a contract. “Everyone made these rules. Are you all going to obey these rules? (Of course, they’ll agree!) Then I’m going to let you put your thumb on an ink pad and stamp your thumbprint on our book to show that you will abide by these rules.” 

When children are doing something they shouldn’t be doing take the book and point to a page as you say, “Look, it says _______ in the book. Show me the right thing to do.” (Most of them can’t read anyway, so you can turn to any page in the book!)

I hope you won't need THE RULES OF THE VIRTUAL CLASSROOM, this coming school year, but just in case...

Chorus:
The rules, the rules of the virtual classroom.
The rules, the rules of the virtual classroom.

Get ready and have your supplies.
Get ready and have your supplies.
Chorus

Sit, sit up straight in your chair.
Sit, sit up straight in your chair.
Chorus

Look, listen, and you will learn.
Look, listen, and you will learn.
Chorus

Sing, dance, and make new friends.
Sing, dance, and make new friends.
Chorus

Click to download Virtual Rules Rap.

https://bit.ly/drjeanVirtualRR


The Itsy Bitsy Spider
The itsy bitsy spider (Fingers pretend to
Went up the water spout. climb up in front of you.)
Down came the rain (Wiggle fingers down.)
And washed the spider out. (Cross arms.)
Out came the sun (Make circle above head.)
And dried up all the rain.
And the itsy bitsy spider (Take fingers and climb
Went up the spout again. in front of you.)

The big, fat gorilla… (Sing this version in a loud voice
and make large, exaggerated movements.)

The teensy weensy ant… (Sing in a quiet voice and make very
small motions with your fingers.)

More Spider Versions (Sharon Howard)
After singing the “Itsy Bitsy Spider” let children change what kind of spider it is. It could be happy, mad, mean, angry, silly, pretty princess, etc. Then children decide how that spider would go up the waterspout.

Spider Puppet
You will need paper plates, construction paper, an old sock, markers, and a stapler to make this project. Decorate two plates to look like a spider’s body. Staple the plates together leaving an opening at the top and the bottom. Cut eight - 8” x 1” strips for the spider’s legs. Glue 4 legs on either side of the body. Draw a face on the sock and then stick it through the center of the plates.

    
                      
*You can also make a simple puppet for children by tying a spider ring to a piece of string or yarn.

Spider Applause
Bend down thumbs and touch four fingertips from each hand. Tap gently!

RULES FOR 2021

As you think about New Year's Resolutions, reviewing class rules when school begins again might be at the top of your list. Here's a repeat of "The Rules of the Virtual Classroom" and "The Rules of the (Traditional) Classroom" to get 2021 started in a positive way.


THE RULES OF THE VIRTUAL CLASSROOM
Chorus:
The rules, the rules of the virtual classroom.
The rules, the rules of the virtual classroom.

Get ready and have your supplies.
Get ready and have your supplies.
Chorus

Sit, sit up straight in your chair.
Sit, sit up straight in your chair.
Chorus

Look, listen, and you will learn.
Look, listen, and you will learn.
Chorus

Sing, dance, and make new friends.
Sing, dance, and make new friends.
Chorus

https://bit.ly/drjeanVirtualRR

THE RULES OF THE CLASSROOM
(Children repeat each line.)
Chorus:The rules, the rules of the classroom.
The rules, the rules of the classroom.

Wear, wear, wear a mask.
Wear, wear, wear a mask.
Chorus

Wash, wash, wash your hands.
Wash, wash, wash your hands.
Chorus

Stay six feet apart.
Stay six feet apart.
Chorus

Look, listen, and you will learn.
Look, listen, and you will learn.
Chorus

https://bit.ly/drjeanSafeRR

Our Class Rules

Ask children to think of other rules that they think would be good for 2021.  Encourage them to illustrate their rules and then put their pictures together to make a class book.