The personal discipline of students, more specifically lack of discipline, is a major factor in poor student performance. It is a shame because there is an easy remedy. When children are raised in an environment with routines they have the opportunity to perform well and demonstrate their competencies, which raises their self-esteem.
These home routines make life easier for all:
Respond to alarm clock and get ready for school without cajoling
Prepare own breakfast while parents prepare lunches
Do a share of dinnertime preparation and cleanup
Place dirty clothes in a bin, fold and put away clean
Maintain orderly (not perfect) bedroom
Manage own gear for sports practices and arts lessons
When expectations are set fairly and administered cheerfully, the child is free to be competent.
I see the value in Harry and Rosemary Wong’s, First Days of School. First Days shows teachers how to set expectations for the classroom and be sure that they are carried out. The work for the teacher is done in advance of class, and s/he can give instruction and guidance because all students are working productively.
Students want to do well, but some are afraid to believe that they are capable. A framework for discipline helps them to be successful.
Many teachers are dissatisfied with their profession. They think they should have attended a police academy instead of a college of education. If that’s the case for you, try establishing procedures.
What do you think?
