How to handle emotional outbursts in the classroom

Students have a lot going on in their lives from happenings at home to academic issues, no matter what the grade or subject you teach, you will likely have an emotional outburst or tantrum in the classroom.

As a teacher, you will never have two days that are the same.

There will be possible warning signs or trigger by a student who is about to have an emotional outburst, with close observation and analysis, the behavior will become predictable and also preventable

Model calm behavior

An angry teacher can’t calm an angry student, calm begets calm. You don’t need to argue or threaten an angry student, your body language also matters in dealing with such issues. Try passing a strong message without raising your voice

Support the academically frustrated student

Frustration with schoolwork can result in classroom outbursts, this is not common for a student. Give your support, accommodate the students to get better, observe his learning style and help increase academic confidence

Don’t take angry words personally

While angry a student can use some words that could make you angry. Note that her comments might not have anything to do with what you have said or did, it might stem out of frustration from home

Inform the parents

For serious behavior issues, the parents must be notified, it is very difficult to communicate through letters. Tell the parents what happened and what you are doing about it

Teach behavior management

Educators can teach students to reflect on their actions and use more constructive ways of managing their emotions. Identifying in-school events that trigger disruptive behavior can provide teachers and students with ideas on how to modify school routines to support constructive actions

Instill hope

The symptoms of students’ emotional struggles produce more heat than light. None compliance, anger, and aggression don’t ordinarily engender acceptance and understanding. Yet, teachers who focus on developing students’ strengths are more successful than those who focus on fixing flaws. Proactive teachers help sustain the belief in a brighter future.