The beginning of a new academic year is our own version of "Happy New Year". We are filled with anticipation, hope, and even resolutions (i.e., "This year I won't let those kids . . ."). The students on the other hand simply wrestle for a day or two with the "unknown". Then that charming timid behavior that borders on the polite begins to dwindle. Take advantage of it—but in a nice way.
Let's take a lesson from packing or herding animals. I talk about this frequently while teaching pre-service or coaching in-service teachers. One of my favorite examples of getting the "young ones in line" is the wolf pack. Remember, discipline is "for their own good", in the wild it is a matter of survival. Wolves don't think about it, they just know it instinctively. When one of those youngsters starts to "test" (like students on the 2nd or 3rd day of school, once they have you all figured out) the alpha wolf just bites an ear—message sent, "get back in line", no love lost.
Find your own way to "ear bite" straight away before a bad behavior becomes a habit or spreads like a pandemic disease. Initially they'll respect you, ultimately they'll thank you.
Comments and stories welcome!
Stef
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