ABSTRACT
Using a solution- and strengths-based approach, the aim of this book is to not simply eliminate problems but to focus on desired changes. The approaches suggested are intended to maintain maximum respect for the student – however difficult they may be – be clear about what is and is not acceptable in the classroom and support teacher integrity and wellbeing. It is acknowledged that some pupils will have behaviours that fit into several categories. Each ‘recipe’ page is divided into the following sections.
What is the problem – so what are you aiming for? You may not reach your target, but this puts you on the right track towards a desired outcome, and goes beyond simply trying to eliminate difficulties.
What do you need to know that will help put appropriate strategies into place? This includes identifying what is happening when the child is behaving in the desired way. This will focus on how to get more of a wanted behaviour rather than less of an unwanted one. Knowing a bit about what a child is dealing with, what may be reinforcing the behaviour and what has helped in the past also gives guidance as to what might be more effective.
What might you do today in the classroom when challenging behaviour is occurring? Some of this may depend on what you have already put in place in whole class activities. The efficacy of short term strategies will often depend on the quality of the relationship that has been established with the student.
What will support longer term change? This includes how we support students to think and feel more positively about themselves and others. It focuses on developing strengths, understanding, skills, resilience and responsibility.
What you do in the classroom today needs to be congruent with plans for longer term change.