First Grade Behavior Management

I keep my classroom rules visual and simple. I use a 5-rule poster with pictures, and we review it daily. It’s amazing how much this helps set expectations! I also rely on a quiet signal to get my students’ attention without raising my voice.. I used to lose my voice so much. Now I just say something like "Macaroni" (and they freeze and reply, “and cheese!”). It works like magic lol.

To keep motivation high, I use sticker charts for behavior and effort. Another game-changer has been my “Take a Break” chair—not as a punishment, but as a space for kids to cool down when they need a moment. all of these have made a big impact in my classroom!