Assertive+Discipline+in+Practice

Assertive Discipline is widely used in classrooms and schools around the world. The following page provides practical tips for putting this approach into practice. Rules Rewards/Positive Recognition Consequences Assertive Discipline Techniques Examples of Assertive Discipline in Practice

=**Rules**=
 * 3-5 clear rules that let students know what behaviors are expected at all times in the classroom
 * Include observable rules that only apply to behavior
 * Possibly include students in creating rules
 * Rehearse rules to ensure understanding
 * Display the rules prominently in the classroom

=**Rewards/Positive Recognition**=
 * Verbal/Nonverbal praise
 * Positive behavior notes sent home
 * Group rewards- May include putting a marble in a jar for good group behavior. When jar is full, group can participate in a Pizza Party or Movie Afternoon.
 * Special privileges -extra computer time, etc.
 * Material Rewards - pencils, erasers, book

=**Consequences**=
 * Consquences do not have to be severe to be effective.
 * Consistency is a must. Every disruption should have a consquence.
 * Establish a discipline hierarchy. An example might be:
 * Verbal warning
 * Separation from group
 * Lose 5 mins of recess
 * Lose 10 mins of recess
 * Lose entire recess
 * Contact parent
 * Visit to the principal's office

=**Assertive Discipline Techniques**=

Address a student's misbehavior and inform that as to what they should be doing. For example, "Tommy, please stop talking and finish your journal entry."

Use the "broken record" technique where you repeat your command up to 3 times until the student follows the directions.

Practice positive repetition after giving a direction.
 * I like the way Maria is standing quietly in line.
 * James, thank you for having your eyes on me.

Be sure to praise a child who has corrected his/her misbehavior.

=**Examples of Assertive Discipline in Practice**=

Ms. Dickey's Classroom - Clear be​havioral guidelines for a seventh grade classroom. Also includes an example of Ms. Dickey's assertive discipline notice that is sent home to parents if their child has not followed the rules.

William Barcroft Junior School - Discipline plan that places emphasis on parental awareness.

Waterford Half-Moon Elementary School - The entire school community has adopted the Assertive Discipline Plan to create a better climate for learning.

Western High School - Clear, Assertive Discipline Plan being used by the school.