Positive Behaviour
for Learning
Creating postive whole school routinues.
1. Help demonstrate time management
When students’ days are predictable, they begin to understand the passage of time and how it shapes their day. They understand the sequence of typical events and anticipate how long an activity will take. This time management is an important executive function skill that many students need reinforced.
2. Provide students with a sense of predictability and stability
Routines provide a sense of security at school. Only when students feel safe and comfortable can they focus on learning.
3. Reduce behavioral issues
Whenever I hear classroom teachers say they’re seeing more behavioral issues, my first thought is to talk to them about their classroom routines. Routines help students understand expectations and procedures, and this understanding makes a huge difference in reducing unwanted behaviors
4. Support students in becoming task-oriented
When students are accustomed to following a consistent schedule, they develop a sense of responsibility and understand the importance of completing tasks within a given time frame.
5. Help students stay focused and engaged
Routines set the tone for the class, signaling that it’s time to be attentive and ready to participate.
6. Empower students to become more independent and self-directed learners
When students are familiar with the routine, they can navigate through tasks and activities without constant guidance, freeing up the teacher's time for individualized support. This allows students to feel proud of their independence and accomplishments.
7. Help establish classroom norms and expectations
Routines provide a framework for teaching and reinforcing essential social and behavioral skills, such as taking turns, active listening, and respecting others' opinions.
8. Foster classroom community
When students engage in shared routines and rituals, they develop a collective identity and a sense of belonging, enhancing collaboration and cooperation among peers.
9. Reduce anxiety and stress
Having a routine in place reduces anxiety and stress for both students and teachers. Students know what is expected of them, and teachers can anticipate and plan for classroom activities effectively, creating a calm and supportive learning environment. In my experience, an unpredictable classroom is one of the biggest factors leading to disruptive behavior in students.
10. Facilitate smooth transitions between activities
Routines make transitions more efficient, such as transitioning from whole-group instruction to small-group work or from one subject to another. This reduces downtime and maintains the flow of learning.
Establishing classroom routines is essential, but even the best-laid plans can fall apart if students don’t follow them. Never assume that students already know how to perform a routine. Just because something feels like second nature to you doesn’t mean it will for them. For example, something as simple as brushing your teeth involves multiple steps that we often don’t think about. The same principle applies in the classroom: routines, no matter how simple, need to be broken down into clear, teachable steps. Teachers walk them through each part of the routine as if they’ve never seen it before.
Remember: Behavior Is Communication
If we notice that a child is struggling to follow what you believe to be an established routine in the classroom, try not to assume that they are disobeying on purpose. Remember, all behaviors are a means of communication!
Look back at the routine and see if all of the expectations are clear. Could the steps be broken down into smaller chunks? Could there be visuals to help the student through the process? By recognising the underlying cause, you can address the issue more effectively and with greater empathy.
Classroom routines are essential for productive and enjoyable days at school. And as we move throughout our day, it’s also important to talk about the time between our established routines.