Teacher-student interaction at the Trace Erase Direct Instruction Table offers an excellent opportunity to implement a behavior management program within your classroom for the entire year.

• Remember: we all want love, respect, and acceptance. Treat every student as you would like to be treated. Respect is earned.
  
  
• Never criticize the child. Address the behavior: "I like the way you did that but perhaps we could do it this way."
  
  
• Reward good behavior -- ignore bad. This doesn't mean you permit violent or abusive behavior. It means addressing behavior patterns prior to things getting out of hand. Sitting at Direct Instruction affords an excellent opportunity: If Jimmy is not attending properly, find another child that is and reward them. When doing so vocalize the reason for doing so - it's the exact behavior you want Jimmy to emulate. Once Jimmy exhibits proper behavior reward him immediately. Do it ASAP. In fact, be waiting for him to exhibit this behavior.
  
  
• Reward frequently in the beginning. In the beginning use objects along with verbal praise. Once levels of behavior have been established wean object rewarding with verbal praise/statements alone. Remember: honey draws more attention than vinegar.
  
  
• Remember: certain childhood/adult behaviors must be allowed. We are human.
  
  
• When discussing a negative situation with a child never give them direct eye contact. Explain expected behavior(s) clearly, directly and expeditiously, then drop it. Do not bargain. If you give direct eye contact they may drain you and your resolve like a car battery with the lights left on.
  
  
• Treat the children in your class as extended family.
  
  
• Be sincere, honest, and caring. Use humor when applicable. Use controlled silliness on occasion. Kids love to be silly, joke, and have fun. Use this.
  
  
• Use extra attention and rewards to draw out shy children.
  
  
• Use Time Out appropriately. You can modify most any behavior if you understand the cause.
  
  
• Take a Behavior Modification Pill on the way to school each morning, i.e., remind yourself of how loving, caring, vulnerable, and needy children can be.