Classroom Management: Strategies to Help Teachers Regain Control

Many teachers came back from remote and hybrid learning to classrooms where some students had become disengaged or had developed disruptive behaviors during the pandemic. This guide explains practical ways teachers can regain control of their classrooms and grow into effective classroom leaders. It also covers the support teachers need from school leaders, parents, and policymakers, and why self-care matters.

On this page 11 sections

What classroom management means

Classroom management is the set of techniques, strategies, and skills teachers use to keep a classroom organized, productive, and good for learning. It matters for both students and teachers. Research has linked positive classroom management to better academic performance, fewer disruptive behaviors, and higher student engagement and motivation (Emmer & Sabornie, 2015).

Start by understanding student behavior

Before changing how a class runs, try to understand why students act out. The pandemic was a traumatic experience for many learners, and some are still coping with the changes and uncertainty it brought. Pay attention to students’ emotional and psychological needs, and give them a safe, supportive place to learn and grow.

Core strategies for regaining control

Set clear expectations

Make rules for behavior and academic performance clear from the first day. A classroom contract or behavior chart can list the rules and the consequences of breaking them. Clear expectations reduce confusion and bring a sense of order.

Build positive relationships

Students respond better to teachers they trust. Get to know students personally, listen to their concerns, and offer emotional support when needed. Praise and positive reinforcement for good behavior also strengthen relationships.

Use positive discipline

Positive discipline teaches students to take responsibility for their behavior and learn from their mistakes. It relies on praise and rewards rather than punishment. Techniques such as redirection and logical consequences help students see the effects of their actions and make better choices.

Make learning active

Active learning asks students to take part in their own education through group work, discussions, and hands-on activities. Engaged students tend to behave better and perform better.

Involve students in running the class

Giving students a voice helps them take ownership of their behavior and learning. Try class meetings, student-led discussions, and peer mediation. This builds a sense of community, and students who feel ownership are more likely to stay engaged.

Handling challenging behaviors

Aggression, defiance, and disrespect can disrupt the whole class and hurt other students’ learning. Two approaches help:

• Find the underlying cause. Behavior may come from emotional or psychological issues, learning disabilities, or trauma. Work with counselors and special education teachers to build individualized plans.
• Prevent problems early. Clear routines and procedures, frequent feedback, and positive reinforcement stop many challenging behaviors before they start.

Using technology wisely

Technology can support classroom management when used well:

• Classroom management software can track behavior and academic performance, give instant feedback, and help teachers communicate with parents.
• Educational apps and games can make learning more engaging.
• Interactive lessons and activities can promote active learning.

Use technology responsibly. It should not become a distraction or replace good teaching. Watch for risks such as cyberbullying and social media addiction, and take steps to reduce them.

Culturally responsive classroom management

Culturally responsive classroom management considers students’ cultural backgrounds and experiences and builds them into classroom practice. It can reduce cultural conflicts, raise engagement, and improve outcomes for all students. Ways to do this:

• Involve families and communities. Use culturally relevant books, videos, and music, and use parent-teacher conferences and community events to learn about students’ backgrounds.
• Promote student voice and choice. Let students share their perspectives, values, and beliefs, and bring their interests and hobbies into lessons.

Keep learning: professional development

Student needs and best practices keep changing, so teachers need to keep learning. Workshops, conferences, webinars, and online courses help teachers gain new skills, connect with other educators, get feedback on their teaching, and stay current with research.

Support teachers need

Teachers cannot do this alone:

• School administrators can provide professional development, classroom supplies, and support staff.
• Parents can reinforce behavior and academic expectations at home and keep in regular contact with teachers about their child’s progress.
• Policymakers can fund professional development, increase resources for schools in low-income areas, and promote policies that encourage positive behavior.

Take care of yourself

Classroom management is demanding and can wear down a teacher’s physical and emotional health. To prevent burnout:

• Make regular time for exercise, meditation, family and friends, hobbies, and breaks.
• Lean on a mentor or peer group to share experiences, get feedback, and learn from others.
• Reach out to school counselors or other mental health professionals to manage stress.

Key takeaways

Understanding students, setting clear expectations, building relationships, using positive discipline, making learning active, addressing challenging behaviors, using technology well, and respecting students’ cultures all help create a safe, supportive classroom. Good classroom management also takes ongoing reflection and a willingness to adapt to students’ needs. With the right strategies, support, and care for their own well-being, teachers can lead classrooms that help every student reach their potential.

Frequently asked questions