Is student behaviour more challenging this year than other years (2022-2023)? Yes! This is not based on research, but on observation. Many teachers are reporting the same thing. It seems that many students are having more difficulty in school this year than other years and many teachers seem to think it is still consequences of COVID. Whether this is true or not, it is still important to have strategies to deal with difficult and challenging student behaviours. Here are some tips:

1. Get training. Read a book or go to a workshop or take a Special Education course. There is much to learn and we can all improve our skills and strategies!
2. Have a plan. Plan out what you will do when a student refuses to do what you ask. Have a plan what you will do when a student swears at you. You can also share the plan with the students so they know what to expect.
3. Get support. A fellow teacher, a vice principal or a special education consultant can all be very supportive and can help.
4. Take a break. When it is all overwhelming, be sure to take a day or two off to rejuvenate.
5. Find a way to let off steam. Getting rid of stress is so important. Try sports or talking with a friend or therapist. Journal it out. Pray.
6. Be sure to be the person you want to be even when student behaviour is challenging. Be sure to put on your best inner actress and be calm even when things around you are not.