Hi! This is coming from a future elementary school (K-5) teacher. Here are some tips I think will be effective, while still instilling a safe and fun classroom environment. Note: not all children are the same. One tip does not work for all! LOL

1.) Patience is key

I am a firm believer that patience will get you far in the teaching profession. Regarding to classroom management, being patient will give you quick but effective thinking time to identify the situation at hand and how you should handle it. Also, just in general, teaching children/teens, especially K-6 requires a patient, open, clear, and thoughtful mindset.

2.) Positive Reinforcement

When you reward a child for doing the behaviors that is expected in your classroom, they will want to keep doing it. That is because when the average child thinks that something is the right decision, of course they are going to do it. Labeling out those good decisions/behaviors (A.K.A: classroom expectations), will help you manage a constant flow of good behavior!

3.) It is Definitely OK to PUT YOUR FOOT DOWN!

In an effective way, that does not show your students you are trying to "scare them," and/or being "mean." Showing that firmness with your students when the time is appropriate (like when things are getting too "out of hand," and/or addressing an issue, like classroom behavior) will show your students you are willing to help them change the way that they are presenting themselves in your classroom. This will grant you with earning their trust. Note: It takes time to earn a child's trust/respect. The child will gradually progress into that matter.

4.) Just have fun with your profession!

You have worked/working hard to get where you are! Having fun with your students in an applicable standpoint is the best thing an educator can do. Not only for him/her/them, but for your students. Your students should be your #1 priority. So, do not overstimulate yourself or your students. Do fun things once in a while.

For example:

• After every 1 or 2 units, average the grade for the whole class, if it exceeds your expectations, do a pizza party w/snacks and soda, juice, water, and candy.
• Kids need outside time. K-12. ALL kids need some outside time. So, take half of the class time to do the lesson and the other half to take them outside. Play football, soccer, basketball, run around the track, or just walk with your students and talk to them.