As a class we came together to discuss ideal behaviors in the classroom that would benefit all. These were recorded on a poster and each was color-coded. For example:

Raise hands before speaking was written in pink.

Speak kindly about others or not at all. (green)

Walk in the classroom. (yellow)

We had about five in all, three covered whole class behaviors and two for specific problems from one or two individuals.

Each child was given a pipe cleaner, the end was tied and the students were rewarded with an appropriate colored bead when appropriate behavior was observed. I have certain focuses at specific times to key them in and reward individual children on other occasions particularly when I know this to be a key objective for them (particularly the “tattlers” and the “runabouts”). The pipe cleaner is ideal since the beads can be easily threaded and they don’t come off even when tipped upside down. This was discussed at my parent/teacher conference and went down well there too. Again the children have really enjoyed it. I aim to continue after the holiday with different outcomes, to be decided upon by the class.

By the way, I love the tattling bag. So great to see the kids coming into the classroom, using it, and looking so much less stressed and focussed when they sit down at their desks. They know when and when not to use it. Awesome! The ‘ground rules’ inside the shoe linked on to the pipe cleaner bracelet and prompted great conversations with the parents at the p/t conference. I even had a cool telephone call from one parent several weeks later when one finally dropped out of a snow boot.

Gene, thanks greatly for your ideas, such a refreshing outlook and so much my style of teaching.

Very best regards,

Jacqui Pryor

– Jacqui Pryor