Use Calm Neutral Tone

Why should I do it?

• It is a quick method to de-escalate a student
• It keeps you in a calm state of mind
• A student will take your lead in the way you speak

When should I do it?

• When you are processing a problem with a student
• When student is reluctant to follow your directives
• When student is trying to verbally engage you in an argument

How do I do it?

• This technique takes a lot of patience, support, self-control and self-talk
• Be aware of your own physiological cues to getting angry, annoyed, offended, disrespected and frustrated
• When you have those feelings/thoughts, say to yourself talk yourself out of losing your temper
• Use “I” statements, ie: “I would like for you to make a choice between doing your work at your desk or at another desk” Rather than “you need to make a choice now about where you are going to do your work”
• If possible, remove yourself from a tense situation before talking to the student to calm down
• Always provide consequences to students in the most non-emotional state possible.