How to control students who commit crimes

Behavior problems are some of the most intimidating for teachers new and old alike. A teacher can have the perfect lesson plan, but all it takes is one student to disrupt the classroom and make learning more difficult for other students.

What can you do to keep students under control?

Many teachers, especially those with special-needs students, will use comprehensive behavior management systems, which help teachers, parents, and students understand why a certain behavior may be happening by tracking what happens before and after the behavior. This can be beneficial because oftentimes if students have a disability, they cannot be expelled for a behavior or action that is a result of the disability.

There are also a few small things teachers can do to control student behavior.

• Lead by example. Start by showing students what they should be doing, or what they should do instead. An adult should never tell a kid "no" without an explanation or an alternative suggestion.
• Help the student understand why the behavior is negative. Try to show them how it hurts others and so on.
• Make possible consequences clear. Post around the classroom the rules and expectations so students can be reminded and so you can point them out consistently.
• Show that you have faith in them. Don't have a negative attitude that will make them feel like they're being unfairly targeted. Praise them when they do well.
• Have a back-up plan. Don't let students feel like they have all the control. If things don't go your way, make sure there's something else to try, such as games.

Just remember that behavior change takes a while, and you will need patience to prevail. Don't see them as the enemy, but as students who may need more help and understanding.