Episodios

  • Take the quiz - What's your teacher type?! (Putting this right up top because I know that's why you came to the description)

    In today's episode I’ll be walking you through three mistakes you might unknowingly be making that can fuel these low-level behaviour spotfires. Now, I say “might be,” but let’s be real—after observing hundreds of lessons, I can tell you with certainty that these sneaky habits tend to creep into even the most experienced classrooms, and yes, I’ve been guilty of them too!

    But here’s the good news—once you recognize these patterns and make a few simple adjustments, you’ll start seeing real changes. And let me assure you, I’m sharing this from a place of experience, not perfection. I’ve made all these mistakes myself, and I’m still learning every day. So let’s dive in, get reflective, and find those empowering “ah-ha” moments together!

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    Why matching the volume of your students can backfire and lead to more disruptionHow talking while expecting students to focus on independent work sends mixed signalsWhy handing out materials during instruction can undo your efforts to get students to listenThe impact of non-verbal cues and mixed messaging in your classroom managementPractical tips to reduce low-level behaviours and increase student focus

    I hope this episode gives you some clarity and maybe even a few "ah-ha" moments! Remember, every teacher—myself included—has fallen into these traps at some point. The important thing is that you’re aware, and with just a few small tweaks, you can start seeing big shifts in your classroom.

    Please don’t feel like you have to be perfect! Teaching is all about growing, learning, and adjusting as we go. If any of these points hit home for you, take it as a sign of progress, not a failure. You’ve got this!

    And if you’re ready to dive deeper and tackle low-level behaviours head-on, I’d love to have you join me in the Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp. Together, we’ll work on building a calm, effective teaching presence that fits your natural style, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling empowered. You’re already doing amazing things in the classroom, and this is just one more tool to add to your toolkit!

    Thank you so much for listening to

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into the frustration of low-level behaviours in the classroom—why they are so tricky to handle and why the advice out there often falls flat.

    This is episode 1 of a big focus on low-level behaviours this month, so be sure to follow along for the rest if this is a big challenge for you in your practice!

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    My personal experiences with low-level behaviours and why I’m so passionate about this topic - hellooooo shaking our confidence and fuelling feelings of hopelessness!The flawed advice (that's putting it kindly) teachers often receive around handling low-level disruptions and why it doesn't work. After all, we can't make 30 phone calls a day, and we are TRYING to engage them!What actually defines a low-level behaviour and why these behaviours fall into a “grey area.”What you can do differently to break the cycle of frustration and regain control in your classroom.

    By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of why low-level behaviors are so hard to tackle and a few actionable insights to start making a real change in your classroom.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
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  • Classroom management is more than just the behaviour, and dealing with low-level disruptive behaviours NEEDS to be more than this to be effective!

    In this episode, I'll be exploring (well... more like nerding out on) a simple yet incredibly effective tool to help manage and reduce low-level behaviours in the classroom: the humble task card. I know, I know, but stay with me here.

    Many factors contribute to disruptive behaviours, but by using task cards, you can provide clarity, structure, and support that helps students stay on task and reduce stress.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    The common reasons behind low-level behaviours, such as students being in a fight, flight, or freeze state, lack of clarity, or low confidence.How task cards can reduce these behaviours by providing clear expectations, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and offering scaffolding for students.Key components of a well-presented task card, including success criteria, checklists, time frames, and prompts.How task cards promote student autonomy and reduce teacher input while boosting engagement.The benefits for both students and teachers when task cards are used effectively.Resources and templates available for Behaviour Club members to easily implement task cards in their classrooms.

    By the end of this episode, you'll understand how task cards can transform your classroom management and why they are such a game-changer in addressing low-level behaviours.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Click here to access your free session on the barriers to giving a task that students get (and get on with)

    In today’s episode, I’m unpacking why students might not be listening or following your task instructions. Picture this: hands shoot up, students ask, “What are we doing?” or they sit there doodling, lost in confusion. What’s going on here? I’ll explore the reasons behind this and how understanding them is key to solving the problem.

    Here’s what I’ll cover:

    The assumptions we make that lead to miscommunication.How students’ unique contexts impact their understanding.The importance of clarity in instructions and where we often go wrong.Strategies to make learning visible and consistent in your classroom.Practical tools like timers, checklists, and scaffolds that can transform how students follow instructions.

    Want to know a win-win?

    Overcoming these barriers naturally addresses student disengagement, reduces low-level behaviours, and mitigates dysregulated behaviours. The magic of a holistic approach to classroom management!!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In this episode, I’m diving into three common pieces of behaviour and classroom management advice that teachers are often given and why we need to stop offering them—at least in the way they’re typically presented.

    These bits of advice are frequently thrown around without any meaningful support or practical steps, making them more harmful than helpful. I’ve heard them time and again from colleagues, experts, and social media, but the reality is that they’re often oversimplified and lacking real substance.

    IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

    Why “make your lesson more engaging” can set teachers up to fail without the right strategiesThe complexities of building student relationships and why it’s more than just “getting to know them”The challenges of “not taking it personally” and how to actually protect your peace in tough situationsWhat advice we should be giving instead and how to better support teachers

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In this episode, I dive into one of the toughest challenges we face as teachers—how to manage a classroom full of students when dysregulated behaviours start bubbling up and escalating. I talk about the key things to remember when students are dysregulated and can’t reason with us, and share my CARE Framework—a practical approach for responding to these situations. The goal? For you to be equipped with actionable classroom management strategies that are aligned with your values of compassion and kindness.

    What I discuss in this episode:

    The challenges of managing escalated student behaviour, especially when juggling other expectations placed upon us as teachers.Why reasoning or punishing doesn’t work when students are in fight, flight, or freeze mode.The importance of depersonalizing student behaviour by understanding it as a search for safety.The CARE Framework for responding to escalating behaviours:C: Communicate the emotion you see in the student.A: Affirm and attend to the student’s feelings.R: Reassure and support the student to reduce fear and anxiety.E: Empower the student with choices while setting clear limits.

    Resources mentioned in this episode (all accessible from within The Behaviour Club:

    The CARE Framework for de-escalating student behaviour.Masterclass on de-escalating big behavioursSEL lesson on understanding the brainRegulation toolbox for studentsPhone conversation prompts for tough discussions with parents and carers.PEACE process for when behaviours bubble over.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • The start of a new school year is always a mix of excitement and nerves (the Sunday scaries multiplied times over!!). As teachers, we’re not just thinking about lesson plans and curriculum—we’re setting the stage for a whole year of learning, growth, and relationships. What will our students be like? How will they get along? What will the dynamics be? Will they respond to me? How we kick off this journey can make a huge difference in shaping the classroom environment that we want for the year to come.

    Gone are the days of cringing through icebreakers and stiff introductions. This year, let’s focus on creating a welcoming space where students feel seen, heard, and ready to engage. From establishing a positive classroom culture to setting clear, collaborative expectations, and even getting ahead with parents, every action we take helps build a foundation for a successful year.

    So, how can we make the first days of school truly count?

    This episode covers my top 4 strategies that will leave your students—and you—feeling excited and optimistic about the year ahead.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • How can you set the tone for an amazing school year without resorting to icebreakers that have your students eyes rolling?

    In this episode, you will learn how to foster genuine connections, and create a positive classroom environment that students are eager to be part of, any day of the school year. Listen in as I explore why typical icebreakers often miss the mark and reveal criteria for activities that spark natural, student-led discussions.

    This episode is packed with insights on creating a classroom culture where students feel safe and excited from day one. So whether you're gearing up for a new year or need a mid-year reset, tune in for tips on building a supportive, engaging classroom community.

    Want to grab the icebreakers mentioned in the episode?

    Find them in The Behaviour Club, or download them separately here on TPT!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Let’s talk calm corners.

    They are all the rage, and for good reason.

    When done right, they teach regulation skills and embed these as part of the classroom culture and shared language.

    When students understand more about their brains, they’re more likely to be empowered to manage their behaviours and self-regulate. Yes, even in secondary! Especially in secondary! The teenage years are the biggest time for brain development, second only to when we are developing in the womb up until 2 years of age.

    But a calm corner? Not always a physical and logistical possibility.

    All I could have managed in my tiny first classroom (and many since then) were front-facing rows, or at a stretch a double-U configuration that I would trip over bags to squeeze behind.

    Safe to say that no calm corner was being set up.

    Luckily, a calm corner (ironically) doesn’t need a corner.

    It doesn’t need a comfy beanbag or a box full of magical fidget spinners.

    It doesn’t require teachers to fork out hundreds of their own hard-earned dollars, and it doesn’t require a fancy display.

    Sure, a comfy space would be lovely, but please don’t let it deter you if that’s the furthest thing from a possibility.

    Your classroom might be too small. You might not even have a classroom of your own and need to drag your things from one side of the school to the other five times a day. You might be a casual teacher who’s desperate to implement some of these strategies but doesn’t think it’s possible.

    It is possible. And in this episode, I talk you through 3 steps to take in order to set up a calm CULTURE, not just a calm corner!

    The resources mentioned in today's episode:

    The Behaviour Club: Learn More
    SEL Lesson: Flipping Your Lid
    Regulation Cards: Your calm corner on the go!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Let me ask you a question, teacher friend...

    How are you, really?

    I have thought long and hard about how I view teacher wellbeing, what it is, how we get it, and there are so many factors that we need to consider:

    How much autonomy and trust you have.The support you’re getting from leadership.The culture of the school.How empowered you feel in your classroom .How confident and masterful you feel.The opportunities that are afforded to you.How fulfilling you feel the work is.

    But today I wanted to talk about one factor that for me has had the most impact on how I am mentally and emotionally in the day to day in my role as a teacher.

    One thing that has had the biggest impact on how I have been able to develop professionally.

    Our teaching village.

    They say it takes a village as a teacher but what does that mean? It certainly doesn’t just mean having people around us because when I felt my lowest in teaching, I had PLENTY of teachers around me.

    For me having a village as a teacher needs to be about having like-minded people around us that we can trust to be vulnerable with, ask questions to, bounce ideas off, be inspired and empowered by (and empower them in return). To be able to access support in whatever form needed. To never have your struggles minimised or shrugged off, but heard and validated.

    This was so pivotal for me, that I am changing the way that I support teachers here at The Unteachables Academy. I am making The Behaviour Club, my teaching village, central to what I offer. TBC is a dynamic community where like-minded teachers can connect, share, and grow together. With masterclasses, resources, and a thriving online network, this club is designed to support educators every step of the way.

    Click here to join us and become a member of The Behaviour Club!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Welcome back to another episode of The Unteachables Podcast, teacher friends! Today I delve into the final chapter of my book, It's Never Just About the Behaviour. If you want to listen to this series from the start, head back to episode 65!

    Yes, building relationships is important... but dang is it hard with some students! On today's episode I give you practical tips for building connections and establishing felt safety in the classroom, particularly with students who present with challenging behaviours.

    This episode highlights the crucial role that relationships play in effective classroom management and offers insights for creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.

    I discuss:

    The huge barriers that we can face when it comes to developing rapport with some students.The concept of "felt safety" and its importance in building trust with students.Strategies for establishing connections, including the two by ten strategy and catching the positive.The importance of teacher wellbeing and creating supportive work environments for educators.

    Watch Rita Pearson's TED Talk: "Every Child Needs a Champion"

    Learn more about Alan Mendler's Two by Ten Strategy here.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Today, I dive into a strategy from Pillar 6 from my newly released book, 'It's Never Just About the Behaviour' which explores the essential connection between quality teaching, learning, and managing challenging classroom behaviours.

    In this episode, I explore two key reasons why teaching and learning is inextricably linked with classroom management.

    I dig into how the beliefs and expectations we have about our students can become self-fulfilling prophecies, shaping student behaviour and their sense of self-worth. Why we need to be raising the bar high for all of our students if we want them to succeed, and why sometimes we do the opposite. I also discuss the strategic approach we need to take to ensure every student can achieve the high standards we set for them. After all, we don't want to set them up for failure either way!

    In this episode, I discuss:

    The downwards spiral of low expectations: Recognising and overcoming our own biases about student behaviour and achievement.How our behaviour as educators reinforces these expectations.The feedback loop that affects student outcomes.Why believing in a student's potential is an act of compassion.The importance of providing both challenge and support for optimal learning outcomes.Practical strategies for implementing this balanced approach in your classroom (it really is like Goldilocks and the three bears!)The concept of scaffolding and its role in student success.Practical tips like the "me, we, you" process to implement scaffolding effectively.+ Much more!

    So, if you're looking for actionable strategies to enhance your teaching practice and proactively classroom manage, this episode is a must-listen.

    Other related episodes to listen to:

    Episode 28: "Are You Setting Your Students Up for Success or Failure Without Even Realizing It?"

    Episode 22: "Why Your Students Might Be Rewarding or Punishing You with Their Behaviour: A Discussion on the Insidious Pedagogy of Poverty."

    If you haven't yet, you can grab a copy of my book "It’s Never Just About the Behaviour" by heading to:

    Amazon Australia
    Amazon UK
    Amazon US
    OR googling the book ti

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • This week, I dive into Pillar 5 of "It's Never Just About the Behavior." In this episode, I emphasize the importance of clarity in your holistic classroom management approach, and provide practical strategies to ensure students understand and meet expectations.

    Today I discuss:

    The Importance of Clarity in Expectations:Why clear communication is crucial for student successHow assumptions about student knowledge can lead to misunderstandings and a whole bunch of chaosGet Ready, Get Set, Go Strategy: A step-by-step guide to delivering effective instructionsExamples of how to implement this strategy in various classroom scenarios

    Today's episode is based on Pillar 5 of my book It's Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management

    Leave me a review for the book and send me a screenshot and I will send you 13 posters of the beautiful illustrations to pop up in your staffroom or office! Thank you so much, your kind reviews mean so much and help me reach more educators!

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Consistency in classroom management is more than just a routine; it’s a pathway to creating an "island of safety" for your students. From the moment students walk into the classroom to the way lessons are structured, consistency can significantly reduce anxiety and foster a supportive learning environment.

    In this episode, I delve into the fourth pillar from my book, It's Never Just About the Behaviour, focusing on proactive classroom management through increased predictability and consistency.

    Listen in as I discuss how teachers can create a neurologically safe learning environment for their students. I explain how predictability helps regulate students neurologically, making them feel safer and more prepared. This sense of security is crucial for mitigating challenging behaviours and creating an atmosphere conducive to learning.

    To help you implement these strategies immediately, I outline how to establish a strong, predictable, and calm start to lessons. After all, if you win the start of the lesson, the rest becomes much easier.

    Here are some of my favourite routines to start a lesson on a calm and positive note (and the ones I walk you through in this episode):

    Welcoming students with predictability and consistency.Using seating plans as a proactive, rather than reactive, strategy.Using learning maps to enhance students' ability to anticipate upcoming activities, ultimately decreasing anxiety and the stress response.Providing a consistent, quality, accessible, and concept-driven starter activity.


    I discuss all of these in depth in Pillar 4 of my book, It's Never Just About the Behaviour.

    The biggest takeaway? Understanding that reducing the activation of the amygdala—the part of the brain responsible for the fight, flight, or freeze response—leads to an immediate decrease in challenging behaviours. One of the best ways to achieve this as a teacher and create a calmer, more focused learning environment is by following the golden rule: "minimize the unknown."

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Welcome to today's episode where I dive deep into Pillar 3 of my upcoming book, "It's Never Just About the Behaviour."

    This pillar focuses on the importance of compassion in classroom management, but not in the way you might expect.

    I will explore actionable, compassionate pedagogy that moves beyond traditional exclusionary practices.

    In this episode, I cover:

    How my challenging school experience shaped my teaching philosophy and the struggle of becoming the teacher I didn’t want to be and how I overcame it.Differentiating discipline from punishment and consequences.Steps to engage in meaningful conversations with students, and the importance of suitable consequences that follow Jane Nelson's three Rs of logical consequences: related, respectful, and reasonable.Why being compassionate in classroom management means more than just being kind; it's about equipping ourselves with effective, value-driven strategies.

    Links and resources mentioned in the episode:

    Download the free guide: 71 Behaviour Response Prompts
    Join the waitlist for The Behaviour Club
    Preorder my book, "It's Never Just About the Behaviour"


    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Welcome to this week’s episode! If you missed last week, head back and catch up, because this is week 2 of digging into pillars from my new book, It’s Never Just About the Behaviour, which is available for pre-order and will be released at the end of June/start of July.

    In this episode, I'll be focusing on Pillar 2: Be Calm. One of the most impactful tools in our classroom management arsenal is maintaining a sense of stillness and calm, even in a chaotic environment. A strong teaching presence is built on the foundation of regulation—what we want from our students, we need to model ourselves.

    I'll be discussing:

    Strategies to stay regulated in a dysregulated environment.How to craft a strong, calm teaching persona.A 5-step non-verbal roadmap to respond to low-level behaviours.

    I'll also delve into the importance of awareness in avoiding the vicious cycle of reactive classroom management. Drawing from my early career experiences, I’ll share how frantic and heated responses only led to more chaos and how many teachers, lacking proper training, fall into this reactive cycle.

    Breaking this cycle starts with us. We need to be the calm conductors in our classrooms. I’ll provide insights into how to recognise signs of dysregulation in ourselves and techniques to regain control, such as pausing, deep breathing, and relaxing our shoulders. Additionally, I’ll highlight the value of mentorship in identifying and addressing these signs.

    Tune in to learn how to mitigate challenging behaviours through self-regulation and establishing a calm, effective classroom environment.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • Welp
 it’s happening.

    The past 670 days have led to me being able to say this next sentence
.

    NEXT MONTH MY BOOK, 'IT’S NEVER JUST ABOUT THE BEHAVIOUR’, IS FINALLY HITTING THE SHELVES!!

    It feels like a lifetime ago since I signed the contract above the title ‘author’. The imposter syndrome was real. Author? Me? How the hell am I going to pull this off? Especially because the person who signed on that line was a very pregnant Claire about to head into the chaotic unknown of parenthood for the first time.

    So I guess it was a lifetime ago. I was a different person in my pre-mother, pre-author life. But the best news? The imposter syndrome is well and truly gone. It’s Never Just About the Behaviour is everything I wanted it to be and more.

    When writing it, I kept coming back to these main goals.

    To empower you to take the action you can take when you walk into your classroom.

    To feel supported, confident and equipped to turn your own space into an island of safety and support for each one of your students.

    To know that, when challenging behaviours inevitably pop up, you’ll be able to respond to them effectively and calmly.

    Allowing you to do the job that you got into the profession to do, and do it damn well.

    To teach.

    To celebrate the release, over the next 7 weeks, there will be a weekly Podcast episode based around each of the pillars of the book - think about it as a VIP sneak peek to dip your toes on (or even make sure it is for you before you take the plunge and purchase
 but I have a feeling it is for you if you are on this list).

    This first episode right here is based on the first pillar, Get Curious!

    In this episode I


    Introduce the overarching approach to classroom management I take in INJATBExplain why being curious about our students' behaviour is essential for understanding and addressing it effectively.Give you a quick overview of something from the behaviour backpack: William Glasser’s five basic needs—love and belonging, fun, power and mastery, freedom, and survival—and how they drive behaviour.What this looks like in the classroom: I discuss how unmet needs can manifest in student behaviour and what you can do about it, and share practical strategies to help you s

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In this episode of The Unteachables Podcast, I sit down with Ashley, a seasoned teacher with 18 years of experience and half of the wonderful Rainbow Sky Creation crew, to discuss practical strategies for managing the demands of teaching. Ashley shares invaluable tips that every teacher, especially those in their early years, can benefit from. From finding mentors and effective time management to self-care and flexibility in the classroom, Ashley's insights are designed to inspire and support educators at every stage of their careers.

    In this episode, we cover:

    Finding a Mentor: How to identify and learn from efficient colleagues to work smarter, not harder.Peer Learning: The benefits of observing and engaging with fellow teachers for professional development.Managing Overwhelm: Techniques for organizing tasks and reducing stress.Reframing Your To-Do List: Viewing your list as a wish list to change your mindset and reduce pressure.Prioritising Self-Care: The importance of hobbies and activities outside of work to prevent burnout, as well as taking sick days when needed.Flexibility in Teaching: Giving yourself and your students grace and knowing when to change plans.Authenticity and Relationship Building: The impact of being genuine and building strong relationships with students, as well as establishing crucial connections with your teaching community

    Plus a bunch more!

    If you want to learn more from Ashley, you can find her any place she hangs out:
    Instagram @rainbowskycreations https://www.instagram.com/rainbowskycreations/
    TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@rainbowskycreations?lang=en
    Podcast: Rainbow Skies for New Teachers https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/rainbow-skies-for-new-teachers/id1713486550



    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • In today's episode, we're diving deep into understanding behaviours driven by the stress response. This foundational knowledge is crucial for any teacher looking to transform their classroom into an island of safety for their students which nurtures connection, reduces anxiety, and promotes growth.

    In this episode, I discuss:

    1/ The stress response and behaviours: Gain insights into how the amygdala processes information and triggers fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses. Understanding this biological process is key to addressing student behaviours effectively.

    2/ How to create a sense of felt safety in the classroom: Learn how to establish consistent boundaries, routines, and expectations to reduce anxiety and create a secure environment for your students.

    3/ Responding appropriately (and effectively) to dysregulated behaviours: Classroom management strategies to handle stress-driven behaviours with empathy and support, avoiding punitive measures that can escalate the situation.

    4/ Practical classroom management support: Explore practical ways to reduce the unknowns in the classroom by using visual aids, clear communication, and structured lesson plans to help students feel more in control and less anxious.

    Referenced episodes of The Unteachables Podcast:

    Episode #32: "Teaching Kids with Big Baffling Behaviours: The Science of Opposition" with Robyn GobbleEpisode #62. 'Apathetic' teenagers, post-pandemic classrooms, and finding all the glimmers with Dr Lori Desautels

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn
  • On today's episode I speak to the brilliant Dr Lori Desautels to answer one of the big behaviour questions I am often asked...

    What's going on with apathetic teenage behaviour?!

    As well as this, we speak about:

    Neuroplasticity and why it is crucial for teachers to have an understanding around.How we can transform the experiences and education of our students in the smallest of moments, in the day to day 'touch points'. How you can foster a classroom environment where students feel a sense of trust and emotional safety.The impact of the pandemic on the emotional wellbeing of our students and how this manifests in challenging classroom behaviours Plus so much more

    I am so excited to bring you this episode. Dr Lori Desautels is an absolute wealth of knowledge and experience, and is a true leader in education.

    Instagram @lori.desautels


    Dr Lori Desautels has been an Assistant Professor at Butler University since 2016 where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Education. Lori was also an Assistant Professor at Marian University in Indianapolis for 8 years where she founded the Educational Neuroscience Symposium that has now reached thousands of educators and is in its 10th year. Lori’s passion is engaging her students through the social and relational neurosciences as it applies to education by integrating the Applied Educational Neuroscience framework, and its learning principles and practices into her coursework at Butler. The Applied Educational Neuroscience Certification, created by Lori in 2016, is specifically designed to meet the needs of educators, counselors, clinicians and administrators who work beside children and adolescents who have, and are, experiencing adversity and trauma. The certification is now global and has reached hundreds of educators.

    Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!

    TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?

    Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.

    The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!

    Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management


    Freebies and support:

    Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts' Download 3 free regulation breathing cards Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support Connect with me on LinkedIn