Classroom management: Difficult Preschool & Pre-K Class

In this video, I'm sharing how I regained control of a preschool class that was getting out of hand. It was a challenging situation, but using the right techniques I was able to get the children back on track and into school on time.

If you're a teacher or administrator who is facing a difficult preschool or pre-k class, then this video is for you! I'll share with you the strategies that I used to successfully manage the children in my class. From discipline tips to engagement ideas, this video will help you get your class back on track and into school on time!

I hope it helps!

[michaeladecker]

This is me right now! It is such a relief to hear someone else, (especially a veteran, ) who has had a year like me. Thank you for your honesty!!

[jamizimmerman]

Year 24 and what you are describing is exactly what I am dealing with with my first graders this year. There was no honeymoon period this year and I feel I am teaching pre-K… just keeping it real😢. When will the Covid excuse be over and when will parents take on the burden and responsibility of what they need to do to parent and raise their own children? I want to still love my job and craft, but this year (only 4 weeks in) has been so challenging. Pray for all teachers

[TheMooresDaily]

You completely described my year last year. One note from my coach is that instead of saying “I love how so and so is sitting quietly” you can just simply narrate “so and so is sitting quietly”. This takes the emphasis off of the teacher and simply describes good behavior. I find it less draining when having to say something for each and every child. Keep it up! You’re doing good work and the Lord sees your good deeds! Blessings from Arizona.

[chelseavm]

Thank you for sharing this experience with us! As a fellow ECE teacher, I can relate to your story.
My current students are exactly what you just shared and it has been difficult, but when I started to accept them this 2nd semester and didn't take everything too seriously, they magically changed. I think when they're happy, they're more willing to listen.

[michellerhodes]

This is me right now! I’m in danger of losing my job. My supervisors see it as me not managing my class well. I have 3 challenging children that will not do what is expected. The counselors do not have any advice. I am at the end of my rope. When a child runs around, spits, kicks, will not stay in the quiet corner, shoves toys to the floor is always unhappy, hits and grabs other children. I am doing my best to stay calm. I have been given written warning if things do not change I’m gone.

[katiewoz]

Love the reminder to speak identity over yourself- I am loving, silly, firm, fair, etc…

[nildacuenca]

I am totally feeling you. Our class room sounds the same. I had to do the same thing. Everyday is getting a little better . I have hitters and bitters. Lost my part time teacher because of the children's behavior. Everyday is a challenge, but I pick my battles. And do alot of reflection. Last year and this year the children are so needy. I have been teaching for 30 years. I love what I do and sometimes I am taken advantage of because I am so decayed to teaching. I hope we can both have better days .much love and peace sent your way. And know that you are not alone 😊❤️👍

[toddmasters]

You sound like an amazing teacher that’s full of grace for her students. I feel your pain because I’ve been there, but I recently came across Pre-k pages. It’s a resource site for preschool teachers and it’s chocked full of wonderful, useful information that has saved my life in my preschool classroom. I am a changed teacher, because of pre-K pages! Blessings to you and your sweet preschool students. You’re definitely making a difference!

[noritaappleby]

I think this is a good lesson in how even after many years of experience and no matter the knowledge we hold… we have to be open to challenges in a way that we can adapt and look through the eyes of the children we are working with.

Taking a moment to identify and understand the needs of each child in ways that make us reflect on our own selves.

Behaviors are all a form of communication - these children are saying something but are unable to communicate it.

Stepping back and really taking a look at how things are running - what is and isn’t working.. taking the needs of yourself and the children into consideration.

Reminding yourself that they are new to all of this and need to be provided some grace.

[fobobxo]

Very great topic..What I establishes and maintain first was a safe, healthy learning environment. One area that I observe that some children could not set at meeting time so I would ask the child would they like to make anothe choice a table with a teacher, I aslo a share with them when they are ready to join us they can come back to meeting. I would have children's to share something special about their weekend, and play my guitar signs songs and movement, this strategies helps young preschoolers to develop their large muscle, skills a sense of rhythm and, encourages interactions with their teachers and friends in a clam and fun loving environment. I have been a Preschool Teacher for thirty years It can be a challenging situation. What help me was I always reaearching and reading the last child development, parenting and early childhood literature and share my knowledge with my colleagues and parents through informal discussion and roud table conversation as well as professional development opportunities. Teachers and parent working to gather to support young children's development.
Maria Newman
March 3, 2024

[shannonmckeown]

Most relatable video yet! This is my year this year and I am so ready for Summer

[Beethovenfan]

This is my 2nd year of teaching PreK, and I about fell off my chair with excitement when you described what happened to your kids when you gave one a compliment, and then the others all said, "What about me? What about me?" This is SO MUCH my class! They are all so needy! Because it's only my 2nd year, I figured it's because I'm so new.
Last year was difficult too, and a lot of it was because I was brand new, but a lot of it was because that class was needy as well, just in a bit different way. I feel like we are getting more and more kids with family traumas, as well. It's so hard to give that much attention to children who crave it, and absolutely NEED it.
Anyway, thanks for this. You have helped my confidence immensely! And like you, I do truly love my kids. I just need to get o the place where I don't feel like I'm in survival mode all the time.

[haleyolson]

Wow, this could have been me describing my kindergarten classroom this year! Whew. I love this! I felt myself getting so frustrated and more firm and irritated and after watching this, I see that I’m doing the opposite of what I need to do. I pray I can show them more love and patience and kindness and gentleness. Thank you for this! 💕

[jengiolando]

Teaching 2 and three year olds is a youtube channel, and has some VERY good advice.

[eimearoshea]

Finally someone talking about what I'm going through

[scncartist]

I'm a new Pre-K teacher of 2s and 3s. This was immensely helpful for me. There are more kids in my room that I need to separate from each other than space in the room, I appreciated the tips so much!

[MrsMysteryWoman]

You have no idea how helpful this video has been. Even just reading the comments alone made me feel 1 million times better.
This is 100% my class right now. And I fully agree with you that the whole pandemic situation may be a huge contributing factor.
Thank you so much, again, for being willing to share your struggles and triumphs with us. I am going to send this to my co-teacher, right now!

Ps. The story you told about the little girl who didn’t want to climb up the stairs, really resonated with me. I do this all the time. Some kids need hugs and love and attention and compassion more than others. Often times kids don’t throw as many fits or get as frustrated and upset if they feel like you understand what they’re saying and like you care And are there to help them through rough times. I have also noticed that this particular crazy group of kids I have right now tell me that they miss their parents way more than other kids have ever told me before in any other school or class that I have worked in. I’m thinking that again, the pandemic may have had a part in that as well.

[EmilyWilliams]

I am a new subscriber and am so glad to have stumbled upon your channel! I have been teaching pre-k for 11 years and still feel like I am throwing things against the wall to see what sticks! Your subscribers seem like they are a wonderfully supportive community I am eager to be a part of! Keep up the great work!

[katherinecurrier]

I’m a first year preschool teacher with 17 kiddos and a lot of difficult behaviors. 5 different languages…… your video is so helpful. I’m going to start roping off closed centers and remember that I can’t hold the wave on the sand. Thanks for sharing

[antowahmister]

You are most definitely describing me this school year. It’s so overwhelming right now..