Teacher Advice: Classroom Management

Classroom management (aka: keeping your class organized, orderly, focused, attentive, on task, and academically productive during a class) can make you lose sleep and doubt yourself as a teacher more than anything else. Here are a few tips that I use to help me continue to love the job and the kids.
Deciding to be silly at work is one of the best decisions I've ever made. It's benefits everyone. This video is a little glimpse on how I use being weird to help my students have a better day.
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[@CallMeCraftyAl]

"Turns out, I'm particularly nuts, too." Best. Line. Ever. Ha ha ha

[@CJReynolds]

+Call Me {Crafty} Al 😂☺️ Thanks!

[@TheCarnivoreSoprano]

Call Me {Crafty} Al lol so am I. Works best when you are authentic

[@lousanto1054]

One thing I like to do 'to be on their level' is when we are having small group learning stations where group work is taking place, I will sit in a student desk within a group, listen in, and be a part of the group. The kids LOVE this! Another thing I do is constantly move around the room, rarely ever sitting. Proximity is so key to classroom management. If I'm explaining an assignment and I hear students talking, I will nonchalantly move toward where they are sitting. About 97% of the time this solves the problem without even saying a word to them about talking.

[@ascendingLOTUS]

You are the teacher that 20yrs later when a student is asked “who was your favorite teacher”... kids still praise you! Thank you for all the good work & positive impact you have on all your students! Its unfortunately rare these days ❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🏾

[@CJReynolds]

Thank you! I really appreciate that comment. Really.

[@happilyinthemiddle9707]

Yes! Classroom management is different for every single person. Our teacher personalities, the personalities of the kids, the culture of the school...it's all interconnected. There is no ONE MODEL of the perfect classroom management. We need to adapt to our school and culture, but also be real and authentic with our students. I have found that a powerful combination of Doug Lemov, Lee Canter, Fred Jones, and Tribes Learning Communities has transformed my middle school classroom. I'd say 90% of the time my students have great behavior...rain and a full moon can sometimes throw that off! haha

[@CJReynolds]

+Happily in the Middle you are so right. It's a hard thing when you are starting out and you realize their is no silver bullet for classroom management. I think it's all about learning about who you are and then figuring out what is best way for you to teach and manage your classes. 90% is a great number! The full moon comment cracked me up!😂

[@sweetbutter2179]

Thank you so much for throwing out some other names to follow for good classroom management ideas. I'll be looking them up today. Ironically, I notice you listed three men. My top teachers to follow for classroom management are also men. In addition to this channel (CJ is amazing! I'm currently building my 'Weird Stuff' box)! I also follow Michael Linsin of The Smart Classroom Management Blog, Rick Morris, and Harry Wong. I've theorized that since men are naturally less emotional than us women, they tend not to take things as personally as we do when students misbehave. Not to say that's 💯 for either gender but I've found that it's definitely typical. With that being said, I follow many amazing women teachers for organizational and planning ideas, as well as teaching resources. My faves include Michelle of Pocketful of Primary, Bridgette of The Lettered Classroom, Jamie of Not-So-Whimpy Teacher , Anna of Simply Skilled in Second, and Ms. May of One Fab Teacher. There are several others but those are my faves. I'll be looking you up as well as it seems you teach Middle School and I just moved up to 5th this year (the struggle is real)! 😂 Based on your comments here, you may end up on my list is faves to follow. 😊

[@joannemarkov]

Your boys all look so grown-up and mature! Granted, I used to teach sixth and seventh graders who were already taller than me, but still. The uniforms don’t hurt.

[@CJReynolds]

Some of them are giants. It’s like having a bunch of Ferdinand’s in a classroom. 😂😂

[@GirlwholuvsCODMWF2]

You are the teacher I wish I had. When I was in high school the only teacher who ever asked me how I was doing or would randomly high five me in the hall way was my physics teacher. This is what motivates me to become a teacher, so I can make learning history enjoyable, and make my students feel like they can have a conversation with me outside of the classroom.

[@CJReynolds]

Shelby Lotre love it!! Once I decided to teach and I finally got in the classroom I realized I that I wanted to be the teacher that I never had and that's what continues to motivate me!

[@lonilarimer4956]

I’m so glad I stumbled upon your channel. I’m a first year teacher and I have one class (they say there’s always one) who doesn’t listen. All the other teachers are saying they have never seen a group like this before. I am going to start taking disruptive kids out into the hall. I will try to implement making it about me and letting them know that I want them to be successful. I look forward to watching more of your videos 😁

[@koolkav]

Did this work? Would love to know how to manage this going into my first year of teaching

[@adelacozlac366]

These things work really well if they know your expectations. Make sure you agree on some rules in the beginning of the year and they know the rules and the consequences and it will work great!

[@No44778]

this sounds so great! i'm from germany and we dont have dedicated classrooms for the teachers here, they have to swap rooms for each lesson. but the idea of having one room for a teacher makes it so much more personal! i love it! and you rarely ever see a teacher that is that interested in having good relationships with their students

[@CJReynolds]

+Noemi Kandt Wow. I think the relationship part it key, it's so important! Not having my own room would be hard but I could move past it. So interesting to learn how schools from other parts of the world work. Thanks for sharing!

[@EdenCroft]

Found your channel through Gary V's Adam Braun show. So glad that there are teachers like you out here spreading love in the education system. Great videos too. I am not a teacher, but as a parent I enjoy them and it helps me think of better ways to communicate with my kids' teachers. Thank you!

[@laceykann2129]

I have become obsessed with watching your videos. I am about to do my last semester of student teacher. This past semester I had a very serious host teacher which she didn't appreciate the relationships built so it turned me into doing things like her. This affirmed that relationships ARE everything. Thank you!!!

[@CJReynolds]

Lacey Kann thanks Lacey and good luck with finishing up school. If I can ever help in anyway please reach out!!

[@turabullschools2411]

There aren't many videos out there actually giving hands on strategies. Instead, they cited egghead research or some fancy international publication. What you've discussed here is great advice for those working with older students. Way too many times, I hear these people giving strategies that are geared toward elementary or preschool students. When you talked about doing something crazy, one time I filled a drug cup with apple juice. I told students how the school is tightening up now and I can't say who the "sample" belonged to. When the kids started getting rowdy, I went on this fake rant about how I've gone the extra mile for each of them and how I would do anything for any of them. I then said, "In fact..." and I drank the apple juice.

[@rebecca7787]

Hi, it was really great to watch this! I'm interested in becoming a secondary teacher and have been inspired by some of my own high school teachers. This was very helpful, as my biggest fear in leading a classroom is that it will go out of control and I won't know what to do. Videos like these put me more at ease and feel more confident. Thanks!

[@tonymorgan261]

Currently in teacher's college... This was very affirming and helpful, Reynolds. Thank you so much!

[@foxlite86]

Your videos are so dope. Thanks for being a real down to earth teacher and inspiring. I'm going back into the classroom after a 2 year break and very excited. K-7 phys ed ! Bring on more teacher tips!

[@janicekuharski8853]

I love this! Hope every teacher watches this--novices & veterans. These are such basic tenets of C.M. & building relationships. We could all use a refresher course when we feel that "burnout" coming on. Get this video into teacher education classes ASAP!

[@CJReynolds]

Wow! Thanks for such a kind reply! Hope your year is going strong!😊

[@eddiefunny]

Love it, Love it, Love it! Thanks Mr. Reynolds. You now have another subscriber

[@timetoteach6226]

Oh my gosh the lightbulb just went off! I really never thought about making it about me, when we are having the conversation about behavior. I am sure I can make this work in 1st grade somehow, thanks for the great tips!! You are awesome! Currently binging on your videos!!!!!!!

[@CJReynolds]

+TimeToTeach thanks!! That tactic works so well and it always catches the kids off guard.

[@jayg3824]

(I know the videos 2 years old but I'm just seeing it now) The issues that happen with the about me... (yes sometimes it works) However, I have a student that I recorded 78 times in one day to sit down, be quiet etc. Pulled him out side and asked him what's going on? He says you only call on me to stop talking and sit down etc, I told him no.. you just arent paying attention long enough to recognize I told 5 people before you to settle down. (Mind you this is a behavioral class) and we are making great progress. But for some kids the trick is showing them why they get called out all the time. I literally wrote down on note cards time and what he was doing. I sat down with him at recess since he didnt have it anyways and we went over the cards. He was like.. man, seriously? I didn't even notice it was that much. So then we broke down what we could do differently, and literally 50% of his issues was solely being out of his seat. Needless to say he thinks before he gets out of his seat now and when asked if he noticed a difference he said he did. Not sure if timetoteach is still teaching first grade, but if so... try showing them what they are doing wrong. Explain to them before you start, "you are not in trouble, I'd just like to show ya some things regarding your classroom expectations" that way they dont break down crying the minute you start talking about it lol. Had a 4th grader cry when I showed him. But now that I explain what we are doing it's all good.

[@msKmakesart]

Thank you so much for your videos. This really really helps as a first year teacher

[@bikerboy9010]

This is an excellent video with excellent advice. Classroom management is one of those things that is easy at times and very difficult at times. It often takes practice, trial and error, experiencing different kinds of classes, experience, etc to get good at classroom management. No matter how good of a teacher someone is and no matter how good someone's classroom management skills are, they're going to have days sometimes where they make classroom management mistakes. Even though some people are good at classroom management and some people are bad at classroom management, no one is perfect at classroom management. I think classroom management is more of a learned skill than an innate skill. People can definitely improve in regards to classroom management. Lots of great teachers with excellent classroom management skills struggled with classroom management during their beginning years as a teacher and improved in regards to classroom management due to experience, trial and error, experiencing different kinds of classes, mentor teachers, professional development seminars, etc. I believe good classroom management is knowing what issues to ignore, knowing what issues to address, not allowing students to engage in inappropriate behavior, keeping students safe, using positive reinforcement, using preventative strategies to help prevent poor behavior from occurring in the classroom, building relationships with students, having engaging lesson plans with students, speaking to students in private about concerns, not embarrassing students in front of everyone, having good transitions in the classroom, and only calling the office to request someone to come to the classroom for discipline reasons in severe behavior situations and last resort situations of a student continuing to be disruptive in class disrupting the learning environment making it hard for other students to learn, work, focus, etc after doing everything possible in the classroom to control the disruptive behavior. I respect how you strongly believe in building relationships with students, having engaging lesson plans, and speaking to students in private about concerns. Keep up the great work with your videos. I wish you the best.

[@KateTheSleepyTeacher]

Tardy to the party. Glad I finally subscribed. Love supporting my fellow teachers !

[@taylorschomer139]

Thanks for another engaging video. I enjoy the infectious positivity of your videos, and I find your suggestions for doable acts in the classroom helpful and actionable :)

[@CJReynolds]

Taylor that’s just about the best comment I could get. I’m glad I could help. ☺️

[@prettygoodradio]

Man, I enjoy the videos. I am definitely not the same kind of teacher, but I love the energy and definitely appreciate the advice. I really do struggle with the class getting shaggy - I think part of it is that they know I am a long-term sub and winging-it daily. It's getting better. Oddly enough, the more I smile and join the fun, then pull it from there. Weird, right?

[@sethsullivan5295]

Thanks for the video. Really helpful. Your philosophy really matches my way of thinking.

[@MissTierraney]

OMG within the first second of the video I'm obsessed just look at those scholars! Loving your editing and great tips. I subscribed (:

[@CJReynolds]

+Miss Tierraney thanks! Their good boys!

[@user-kj8id4ku4k]

Thank you so much this will be a great start for me 👏👏

[@sarahmeador1120]

I have my first ever interview for a teaching position today, after getting my degree in education back in 2011 but continuing to work in restaurant kitchens because it's my "comfort zone." Super nervous but also excited about using what I went through college and post-degree training for and have constant ideas about. I love all of your videos and revisit them not only to refresh my memory and ideology, but also to confirm that I have the right attitude to be more than just an acceptable teacher. Best wishes and love to you and yours.

[@CJReynolds]

Hi Sarah! I hope your interview went great! We are happy to be here for you. If you ever need anything please hit us up on SNTT and we’d love to answer any questions you might have. Peace!

[@janiedoen1459]

Thank you so much! I really needed this video. I'm nervous for my first year of teaching middle schoolers.

[@CJReynolds]

+Janie Doen hi Janie! The bad news is you will be nervous every year. I always think everyone is going to figure out that I'm not as good as they think. The great news is that as long as you make the job about the kids and meet them where they are you will win. Please hit me up if there is ever anything I can do to help. For real. Thanks for the love. Peace.

[@moya-gayehamilton1132]

I looove ur channel so much! Thnx 4 making these awesome, informative vids! Keep them coming

[@CJReynolds]

My pleasure ☺️❤️

[@marcwyant1217]

What did humans do to deserve a teacher like you? You've MASTERED the trade!

[@lizcraft17]

Okay, I'm a subscriber. 😊 I am always willing to learn and be a better teacher and your videos are super helpful.

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks Liz😊 I’m glad they help. Really. 👍🏽

[@roxie4843]

Firstly, your classroom is *beautiful* and well designed. Most of us are working in a classroom that feels like an overstimulating circus. Secondly, I’m with you 100 on the teacher greeting kids at the door, but not all of our schools will allow that to happen. At my job the TA is assigned to checking kids in & out while I work with the kids. Thirdly, giving kids hugs and really even touching kids is now highly discouraged. So is being too personal. What you have going on is an outlier; and that’s why it works- somehow you have the power to teach the way you do. Most of is don’t.

[@mardellethomas238]

So I've been teaching 8th graders for 10 years and this year I used your techniques for the first and 2nd days of school. Thank you so much because it was a game changer. I feel so much more connected to my students.

[@PaperCraneWishes]

On my third day of being a teacher 🤯 I didn’t go to school for education but I like some of your solutions. The air horn and megaphone are good ideas too. 😂

[@sharonhager8083]

Hey! I just heard about you today after watching a Miss Mae video and she raved about you! I just finished my 5th year of teaching and think it's gone pretty well, but this past year was a challenge. I was moved to 5th grade English and had a group with a rep- I feel good about some things and a failure about others. I had some of the same kids in 2nd grade, my second year of teaching, and I actually think I handled the group better then. My team teachers in Math and Science have taught for many years and both said they had never had a group like that before. I tried to remain positive and stepped up my classroom management strategies, but it was very hard. I love a lot of your ideas and plan to start this coming fall with a fresh and positive outlook.

[@sharonhager8083]

Miss Mae or One FAB Teacher

[@MaskedWeirdosChannel]

you were one of my favorite teachers in CACHS. Thanks to you I have an extensive Shakespeare movie collection I'm still adding to it! as well as Jane Austen

[@CJReynolds]

+MaskedWeirdosChannel thanks! I had some pretty good company there. Major, McDougal, and Ash were pretty amazing.

[@MaskedWeirdosChannel]

Real Rap With The Reynolds oh i love Ms. Ash! but i never had classes with the others

[@blackwoman3839401]

100 percent correct! Love it!

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks!

[@carolinadipadova1841]

You're a wizard, Reynolds.

[@SaintSteven67]

One thing I would add to to having the student stepping outside is to wait two or three minutes before going out there. That way, if either you or the student is angry, you both get a chance to cool off.

[@charlescarter1356]

This was amazing! Looking forward to more of your content!

[@CJReynolds]

+Charles Carter thanks man! I really appreciate it! I'm glad you found my channel. Let me know if I can ever be of any help! Peace!

[@GeelongCableLocations]

Ok this is just the second video I have watched and I have just had to subscribe. I love the message you put out in these videos and you also have some mad editing skills (assuming you are doing it yourself). I can't wait to watch the rest of your videos over the next couple of days 😀 Regards Ben

[@CJReynolds]

+Geelong Cable Locations thanks Ben! That means more than I can say. I do it all myself, so I appreciate the compliment. My job is so fantastic and I'm happy to share a little bit of it. Thanks for stopping by !

[@GeelongCableLocations]

Wow, really, ok so now I have to ask. Did your school put you through a course and did you do some online training or something to learn how to do it. Or is it all just self-taught? And what software do you use to edit in (apologies if you have already answered this in other videos you have done)

[@CJReynolds]

+Geelong Cable Locations It's all self taught & probably inspired by different people... I really just worked on the strengths and gifts that I have and infused them into the classroom. I use the free iMovie software from my Mac 💻 and shoot on my iPhone 6s+

[@kayleegoff141]

This year in college I had class room management and in class my instructor had us take notes on different stuff and then got into groups taking about rules in the class room .Then got information about medication.The last thing was stories about two students.

[@alancarlin4726]

I wish I had a real English teacher at school and not the ones that teach us only the verb to be throughout our entire life in a school, at least here in Brazil that's how it works, I study English for 10 months and my English is so much better than all the English teachers​ that I have ever had, I always correcting them in front of everyone 😂. outstanding video btw

[@CJReynolds]

+Alan Carlin hey Allen! Thanks for the compliment! One of the best things about being an adult is that you get to be the teacher/ parent/ person you always wanted when you were a kid. I never had a teacher in high school that I connected with with so now I try to be the best I can be for my students. Thanks for watching !!

[@milagritogriffinperkinscla1731]

Totally Agree

[@dulceballesteros9216]

Great advice, I love that you handle your clases in a similar way as I do.

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks!! What do you teach?

[@dulceballesteros9216]

Real Rap With Reynolds I'm a trainer for a call center in México. I train three different campaign, my job is a little different since I have a class of different ages and they're mostly adults but they actually act like teenagers once they're in training. So facilitating a class is almost the same as teaching a high school class. The bug difference is that this is for a job and not for education.

[@wacens1]

Hello Sir! I've just discovered your channel and I love it. I'm going to start my first year as a teacher in 3 weeks so the kind of knowledge and wisdom that you present is exactly what I need. I have a question tough. Could you say how many classes (groups) you normaly have assigned to you during a school year? I'm asking because I live in Poland and I'm curious about the differences.

[@budezone]

Awesome video. Great penmanship, Reynolds!

[@jackelinelopez-sangiorgio8864]

Yeah, but can he write with his right hand? Jk Lol ;)

[@Kate-zl3zl]

Great video! Great ideas! Very inspiring....

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks ❤️

[@educate3604]

Right on. Thanks for sharing

[@CJReynolds]

My pleasure!

[@brkfstgrldaily1181]

I would love to sit in on one of your classes!

[@leahcarolinedhollander2187]

I recently came across your account and like what you're teaching! I've recently started my first teaching job in an all girls school. However, I teach Dutch in Europe & we as teachers move classrooms rather than the other way around. I noticed a lot of your tips are on decorating classrooms and while I love that idea, do you have any ideas for when you don't have your own classroom?

[@Gamegal07]

The smiling thing is so true. I'm a very smily person and this is what they told me don't smile. Its not my personality and I've struggled being that hard arse

[@francisjaydamit5525]

Oh. I am a fan, teacher.

[@greenelphiexoxo]

Hello! First-year teacher here and I LOVE your channel. I am in my third week of teaching and I have one class that can get quite rowdy and distracted very easily. I feel that I have a similar teaching philosophy to yours in that my strength is creating positive relationships with students. I was wondering if you have any words of advice.... or comfort coming from an experienced teacher such as yourself? Thank you!

[@sarachilds-theonlyschoolin3438]

What advice do you have for classroom management for a substitute teacher? I'm often in high schools and I don't know the classroom "community" of each class so I don't know how a teacher might run the class normally. I like some of what you say in this video. I do try to meet them at the door and make some personal connections, and I like to be friendly and even a bit funny if I can.

[@TheCarnivoreSoprano]

My take on classroom management is that I am a guide. In other words, learning is our destination and I simply help you find the way there. I am your partner and your resource in this trip. We are both going to be invested and enjoying this trip. I am a very goofy, yet disciplined person and I intermingle this into the way i run a class. I say don't be afraid to lay on the floor with your students. Use what they love to do to get to their learning outcomes. Signed a child care professional/teacher :)

[@CJReynolds]

I love that you said "don't be afraid to lay on the floor with your students." You sound awesome! Thanks for the great advice. I'm going to do that this week. 😊

[@daniellefederico-valdez272]

Your friggin awesome

[@rodpruitt8926]

Great vid! Just thinking. I have noticed that people who are not good at managing their own kids are also not good at handling a classroom, , and vice versa.

[@kimberlygeorge2542]

Too cool

[@vennessaredmond5585]

i would like to know what consequences you implement, and how do you implement them

[@taylors221]

Do you have any tips for subbing an out of control class? The class where they will not even quiet down for you to do attendance right from the start of the day before you've even introduced yourself? I feel so helpless in those situations and nothing seems to work.

[@brizzybellahhhh]

I don't even know how I stumbled upon your videos but they are great. I want to become a teacher hopefully within the next year or two through an online certification program, I know it's not the usual path to become a teacher but I am committed to become one. Since the program is online, my biggest worry is when it comes to classroom management since I have little to no experience hands on as a teacher. Any other tips on how to ease into the classroom when it comes to the kids' behavior to run a classroom efficiently for everyone? Thanks for the videos, keep posting!

[@CJReynolds]

Bella Molina Funny how the rabbit hole of KZbin works!! So glad you found the channel! First off I would say to try and get into a classroom to observe. You could call local schools and ask to come in and observe! I would also say once you get in to the classroom be consistent, at the same time you need to be flexible... bend the rules when necessary but let the kids know your bending the rule. It's definitely a balance! The biggest thing to understand is Teaching is a craft and it takes time to develop it!! Let me know if I can ever be of any help!

[@brizzybellahhhh]

Thank you so much!

[@annettesecogarden]

Oh, I wish I would have had teachers like him, school would have not been asolute hell for me then! He is fantastic, wish my son could have someone like him, he starts hating school too.......

[@CJReynolds]

+In The 12th House I know this doesn’t help either of you but if you were my student I would have greeted you every day and eaten lunch with you and listened to every story you wanted to tell me. I pray that your son finds a teacher that will do the same.

[@marcwyant1217]

Do these work for inner city students with SEVERE behavioral issues? If not, what are some ways to manage their behavior?

[@rachelturecek790]

Hi Reynolds- I'm a middle school art teacher and am seriously struggling with my 8th grade. I feel so defeated. I have SO MANY students who will not listen or follow directions or cause disruptions that building relationships seems impossible because I can't even talk to a student in the hallway without worrying about what is happening in the classroom. I have ADHD and it is incredibly challenging to me to have a chaotic classroom where my brain simply shorts out when inundated with noise and questions and students moving around the class. I have tried some of your techniques but also struggle with getting into new routines myself so have not been as consistant as I would like to be. I know that I just need to practice and perhaps wayching one of your videos right befor this class will help me focus but any other words of advice you can give me would be much appreciated.

[@leeanarajpaulsingh7768]

Hey, I'm a substitute primarily in middle school. For the most part, I have classroom management pat down, but recently I had a super loud, and chatty class that decided that it was ok to get out of their seats and to be off task. I always greet my students at the door and have the assignments written on the board for the students to walk in and quickly get to work. I then continue by introducing myself and firmly list the rules and repercussions. Which many of the students have no problems following. It may have a little to do with the fact that I bribe my students with playing clean music of their choice for good behavior and staying on task. But for some reason this past week nothing worked for one of my classes. They were all over the place. I had to call an administrator to come in and to talk to the students about their loud behavior. Immediately after the administrator left the classroom the students returned to their loud behavior. What should I do if this were to in another class I substitute for?​

[@darkageofcamelotofficialvi3005]

I couldn't find this song on the Murillo Mongelo site. Can you link it thanks.

[@laurafiller1849]

I love your videos. I'm going to start teaching high school next week (mid-year start). While I love the idea of putting an agenda on the board, I don't know how long things will take. Should I still put one up?

[@CJReynolds]

Teaching has everything to do with pivoting. If you feel it’s beneficial just try it. If it doesn’t work try something else. Best of luck Laura!!

[@chloeellen3989]

I am about to start my first year of being an art teacher in an all boys comprehensive secondary school. I am so worried that I hesitate too much when it comes to behaviour management and I will be just ignored in the classroom. My worst nightmare!! Also I am told continuously that the boys seem to have issues having respect for women, I taught a lesson where I may as well have just talked to a wall for an hour but as soon as a man talks to them there's straight respect? Any help and advice you have would be amazing. Thank you, your videos are brilliant

[@CJReynolds]

Hi Chloe! This is such a great question. I don't know that everyone would agree with me, but I agree with you. I think men get more initial respect from boys. That being said the initial respect can wears off quickly if it is not maintained. Even if the beginning of the year is a struggle this is what I would do to try and win the year. 1. Consistency. A rule is a rule. Do not bend. With that in mind I will also say that being to hard will cause you to break. For example, if you usually take points off for being late to class and someone comes to class with a good reason for being late, don't take points off. Always let them know that you know you are breaking your own rule. That way that don't think they got one over on you. 2. Build relationships. This will help you more than anything else you will do. If you know the kids they will be more respectful towards you and do their work. 3. Be patient. Respect is earned and never demanded. The class you want to have might not be the class you get right away. Hang in there it will come if you put in the work. My first year in Philly, no one in my senior English class listened to me for 3/4 of the year! I did everything I could and I couldn't win. It didn't help that I had the football team and the basketball team in the same class! By the end of the year I had put enough work in to each kid and my year really turned around. Hit me up when you start if you have problems and I will do my best to help you sort them out! Any chance you are teaching in Philly?

[@msmcmurdie]

This is awesome! Most of my classes, classroom management is going great but I have one particular student who has become a huge issue. What do you do if you have a student who hates school, hates your class and does everything they can to ignore instructions or deliberately misinterprets them? I've tried to find out what it is behind the behaviour to help him, but with no success. If I respond strictly he gets worse. If I don't respond harshly he continues and other students start to mimic him. The rest of the class looks to me each time he acts out. How should I react?

[@jennifermiranda7674]

Samantha McMurdie I would get the counseling team on board and help you out. You can’t do all that work on your own. Send the student referral to the counselor and get updates with them. They can also help out by coming unexpectedly to your classroom to he how he’s doing that way he knows what to expect.

[@marybroderick8265]

I was a sub so the classes always thought they could blow me over, but I didn't let them disrespect me because I loved them and cared about their outcomes.! I began the class with a warning, if they talked or acted up i would have them change their seat or stand in the corner, at the next infraction I sent them down to the principles office . After the first few troublemakers were ejected, the class was quiet.! I first taught at a teen challenge center for kids sent from the courts for drugs etc. And they fooled me a lot, great liars but I taught with power from God. Never start your day without prayer or the devil will take over!

[@lubnan2936]

Agree with 99% of what you said but I worry if I apologize and insinuate I'm at fault when I'm not if students may take that as a sign of weakness. Have you ever had this backfire on you?

[@infociencias6503]

Hey Reynolds, I have seen a couple of your videos and always wondered if the parents signed something so you could video their kids. Dont mean this in a bad way, im also a teacher so i wanted to know how that worked for you.

[@SB-ym7ys]

Hi, I'm currently a student trainee drama and theatre teacher over in the UK and really struggling with classroom management, I'm nervous to start building that relationship with students because I am worried incase I cross the line from being professional into something else.

[@CJReynolds]

Hi Scarlett! Two things... 1. Just make it clear by saying that you are a mentor or coach and not a friend and that it is the students that you care about so you are not worried about telling them the truth when they need it. This will go far. 2. I started a closed Facebook group for teachers where others might be able to help you with this as well. If you search Real Rap with Reynolds Teacher Talk on Facebook you’ll find us. Thanks for even being concerned with this stuff. It really shows you care. I appreciate you. ☺️❤️

[@fireblademaster100]

Man I wished I looked up classroom management skills earlier cause I'm in a bind at my summer camp. It's my first time trying to teach on my own and I've lost almost all control in the class. I'm worried if I'll be fired soon and if this will affect my teaching carrier in the future :(

[@CJReynolds]

+fireblademaster100 Sorry man your having a hard time hang in there. Would love to do a quick phone call with you, if your interested DM me on Instagram or email me at [e-mail]

[@fireblademaster100]

Hey thanks, I think I'll take u up on that email

[@taqwamahdawi7785]

What's the name of the song at the beginning?

[@bcasti6]

Absolutely loving your videos! P. S. Did you draw that whale?

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks!! I did draw it but I cheated. 😏 I projected it up on the wall and traced it.

[@albertubald.t7024]

I would like to develop that awesome hand writing . what's your secret

[@CJReynolds]

+Alberto HaMizrahí 😂😂my students call it Declaration of Independence handwriting. I don’t know how I got it. I’m left handed which should mean my handwriting is sloppy and smeared.

[@marcschultz9997]

He pushes his pen/ chalk. Skateboard analogy. Reynolds is a “Mongo” pusher.

[@debbieleyva]

So I have juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and when I was a kid I always got bad grades in penmanship and it really hurt my feelings cuz it wasn’t my fault I had 80 year old fingers! When I got into high school I went to a bookstore (before internet, lol) and bought a bunch of penmanship workbooks. I practiced and practiced by the hour and now I have really nice printing and cursive! Not as fancy as Reynolds, though.

[@marcschultz9997]

Left handed!

[@gabriellevigil9333]

I am not going to get anything done. I am binge watching your videos haha.

[@CJReynolds]

+Gabrielle Vigil LOL, Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!! 😁

[@jamesmartin9123]

I subsritute teach ..never can get a job...it's really bad here..people who just cell phone..canvas assignments never done..regular teachers just want duty pay..some never want it. Teachers who are off never leave notes for the subs.

[@ryanblackmore8033]

ps what product do you use in your hair to get that vollluuuuume? Legit.

[@ryanblackmore8033]

also omg i am cutting the sleeves off of my long-sleeve button-downs to go under my sweaters... they're so damn hot otherwise!

[@zoeparker9988]

One thing that I struggle with is managing the behaviour and reducing the amount of down time at the beginning of the lesson. I think one of the main reasons for this is that I don’t have my own classroom. So by the time the class teacher leaves and I enter this gives kids the opportunity to mess around as they are often there before me as I usually come rushing from another classroom. In an ideal world I would like a starter task on the board as kids enter but as a floating teacher, I can’t do this. Meh. Any advice?

[@michelleyore4565]

Zo Parker - how about using a giant post it note every day to outline your daily activities? You can take it down and put it up in the next room. Or even a small white board might work.

[@joshuacarlson1652]

Hey, I am a second year teacher and I am about to start at a middle school in the middle of the year, any advice on how to tackle that?

[@CJReynolds]

For sure Josh. 1. Relationships are king. Get to know your students. Learn everything you can about them and then use it to teach them. Building relationships and giving kids a safe place to be themselves will make you a better teacher than almost anything else. 2. Don't wait to be awesome. Do it now. Too many teachers think they are going to just wait until they have tenure and then do all the crazy awesome stuff they are dreaming of doing in their classrooms. Don't wait. Do it now. Best of luck homie!!

[@stevenimhof184]

How do you bring a student out in the hallway to talk and avoid the class getting crazy as soon as you close the door? The little party that goes on once the teacher is gone. I want to keep my eye on the students I left alone in the room but I don't want to be distracted or not have my undivided attention on the student that I am talking with. And I also want to close the door so the students in the classroom can't hear what we are saying.

[@CJReynolds]

Great question… I stand with the door half way open. I’m in the hallway at the door. The kid I’m in the hall with is next to the wall so he can’t see the other kids and they can’t see him. We are putting on a back to school boot camp to help teachers start the year off right! The boot camp will focus on building relationships with students and classroom management. It’s a two night event on August 9&10 at 7:30 pm est. Here’s the link: reynolds.samcart.com/products/back-to-school-bootcamp

[@stevenimhof184]

@@CJReynolds Yup. I know and saw. I already signed up for it.

[@sunnymadher]

You’ve cut the sleeves off your shirt?

[@jopelynamadcarmelotes9204]

Very nice videos

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks!! I appreciate the kind words. ❤️

[@jopelynamadcarmelotes9204]

Real Rap With Reynolds your welcome Sir

[@jopelynamadcarmelotes9204]

You are good how to manage your time

[@itamarcalderonosuna8333]

You look like that man from Maze Runner and Game of Thrones in the thumbnail, hahaha. 😅

[@ginad8155]

How do we direct message you to be a possible speaker for our Professional Development on this subject? Thank you.

[@CJReynolds]

Just shoot me an email at [e-mail] ☺️

[@brittneyscavo]

Feeling so defeated with classroom management. 😩

[@iamURHO]

Real gray hair?

[@CJReynolds]

100%

[@TheGreensIndoorGolf]

These ideas are ridiculous. No jk. I'm able to build really good relationships with all my kids, but then they think because we are close, and eat lunch together, that they can horse around in class like we do during lunch. How do I fix that?

[@CJReynolds]

+diSCIpling Recovery that's a great question and it's something I continue to deal with. A couple of things that might work 1. Don't let kids eat with you if they act up and then remind the students that eat with you that it is a privilege. 2. Tell students "you must have momentarily lost your mind because you and I have worked hard to build a relationship and their is no way that you could be acting like this when we have a bond like that." I look at my relationships like father and child not friends and that helps too. If you want to talk more about this let me know. It's hard to type everything. 😂

[@GeelongCableLocations]

Ahhhh brilliant tips there, love it!

[@jo_de3379]

You cut the sleeves off your shirt...

[@vjules6135]

Not smiling until Christmas? 🤐 I'd NEVER make it!

[@CJReynolds]

+V Jules NEVER!! I can't even believe they say that. I want the kids to know from the first day how pumped I am to be there and how great the year is going to be. What's your favorite classroom management technique?

[@vjules6135]

Right now I'm just a sub. But one thing I love in every class is to teach the kids a call and reponse first thing in the morning. It's fun for them and and helps me to keep their attention throughout the day.

[@vjules6135]

Oh! And I smile! Even as a sub! I haven't gotten eaten alive yet. 😊

[@CJReynolds]

+V Jules and you never will! Keep being great!

[@sshaw4429]

How can you have problems with kids in suits? Lol

[@CJReynolds]

🤣😂🤣

[@edscott4729]

Your jump cuts freak me out.