The teenage years are a period of rapid physical, emotional and social development, and can thus present unique challenges in the classroom. Managing teenage behaviour effectively requires a combination of empathy, understanding and consistency. Here’s a guide to help class teachers, teaching assistants and heads of year navigate the ‘teenage maze’ and foster a positive learning environment.
The adolescent brain is undergoing significant changes, making it more susceptible to impulsivity, risk-taking, and heightened emotional responses. These changes can manifest in various behaviours, from inattention and disengagement to disruptive outbursts. Recognising these developmental stages is crucial for developing effective behaviour management approaches.
Positive relationships are the cornerstone of effective behaviour management. Take time to connect with your students, understand their individual needs, and show genuine concern for their wellbeing. Building trust creates a foundation for open communication and cooperation.
Ensure that students are aware of boundaries and of the likely consequences of crossing them. Communicate expectations explicitly, using simple language and visual aids if necessary. Clearly define the sanctions for unacceptable behaviour, and ensure that they are fair, consistent and promptly implemented.
Acknowledge and praise positive behaviours to reinforce desired actions. This could be something as simple as verbal praise, a smile, or a small reward. By recognising positive behaviours, you encourage students to continue exhibiting them.
When misbehaviour occurs, deal with it promptly and calmly. Avoid reacting emotionally or resorting to personal attacks. Focus on the behaviour not the student. Use clear and direct language to explain why the behaviour is unacceptable.
The classroom hummed with activity as Mrs. Jenkins delved into Shakespearean sonnets. Amidst the sea of attentive faces, one student stood out, his disruptive behaviour casting a shadow over the otherwise engaging atmosphere.
Alex, a 14-year-old boy with a mop of unruly hair and a penchant for mischief, couldn’t seem to contain his restless energy. He chattered incessantly, his voice cutting through Mrs. Jenkins’ explanations like an unwelcome melody. His inappropriate comments, often laced with sarcasm, drew giggles from his classmates, further disrupting the flow of the lesson.
Mrs. Jenkins, a teacher with a wealth of patience, recognised the signs of a frustrated mind. She paused her lesson, her gaze settling on Alex. “Alex,” she began, her voice steady and calm, “I need you to stop talking. Your behaviour is disrupting the class and preventing others from learning.”
Alex, caught off guard by the directness of Mrs. Jenkins’ request, fell silent, his eyes darting around the room. Mrs. Jenkins continued, “Alex, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but please save your comments for a more appropriate time. Right now, we need to focus on the lesson.”
Her words hung in the air; a gentle reminder of the boundaries that needed to be respected. Alex, sensing the sincerity in Mrs. Jenkins’ tone, nodded curtly, his mischievous grin fading into a semblance of compliance.
The class resumed; the rhythm of the lesson restored. Mrs. Jenkins, her composure unwavering, guided her students through the intricacies of Shakespearean sonnets, their voices weaving a tapestry of understanding. Alex, though still restless, remained silent, his attention drawn back to the unfolding drama of the sonnets.
As the bell rang, signalling the end of the class, Mrs. Jenkins approached Alex, her expression a mix of concern and understanding. “Alex,” she said, “I understand that you may be frustrated, but this behaviour is not acceptable. Let’s talk about it.”
Alex, his eyes meeting Mrs. Jenkins’ with a hint of defiance, nodded reluctantly. He knew that his behaviour had crossed a line, and he was prepared to face the consequences.
The story of Alex and Mrs. Jenkins is a testament to the power of effective behaviour management. By maintaining a calm and respectful demeanour, clearly communicating expectations, and addressing the behaviour in a timely manner, teachers can effectively manage challenging teenage behaviour.
Ensure that your home-school communication channels stay strong and open. Share concerns about behaviour and work together to develop strategies for improvement. Regular communication helps ensure consistency and reinforces the message that behaviour matters.
CPD is essential for staying up to date with effective behaviour management strategies. Consider attending one of TT Education’s courses to enhance your skills and knowledge, for instance Creating and Leading a Coherent Approach to Behaviour in Secondary Schools, a full-day, on-demand course that will leave you buzzing with new ideas. It will give you insights into what OFSTED says about behavioural management, and help you develop a tailored ‘Behaviour Curriculum’. The course includes opportunities to explore practical strategies based on best practice from around the country and will help you identify how students feel about behaviour in your school.
Remember, managing teenage behaviour is an ongoing process that requires patience, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt. By understanding the teenage brain, building positive relationships, establishing clear expectations, promoting positive reinforcement, addressing misbehaviour effectively, collaborating with parents, and investing in CPD, you can create a more positive and productive learning environment for all students.