Simple Steps to a Calmer, More Attentive Classroom

Simple Steps to a Calmer, More Attentive Classroom

Short conversations and targeted activities can help build stronger relationships in the classroom. Find practical ideas for developing students’ emotional intelligence.

You can start with a simple question: What emotion did you notice today, and what helped you? Conversations like these give students a chance to name what they’re feeling and listen to their classmates. This page offers practical activities, suggestions for setting shared communication guidelines, and ways to respond when tension arises in the classroom. Choose an approach that suits your students’ age and your circumstances, and adapt it to the flow of your lessons. Even a small, regular space for conversation can help foster more open relationships.

Interested in this topic? Read more: Emotional intelligence: A path to well-being and successful student development in pedagogy Want to find out where you stand personally? Take a short test at the end of the page and gain a better understanding.

How does this apply to you? Choose the answers that describe you best:

Imagine that a student in your class suddenly bursts into tears without any apparent reason. What is your first spontaneous reaction?

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If you had to describe your teaching style as an animal, what would it be and why?

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What tone do you most often choose when explaining something to students?

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Imagine that a student constantly provokes you. How do you explain it?

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What does the word "authority" mean to you in education?

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If you could change one thing about your emotional expression while teaching, what would it be?

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How would you respond if a student said that your class bores them?

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What do you think students will remember most about you?

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In a situation where you feel emotionally drained, what do you do?

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What is your attitude towards your own mistakes when teaching?

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Emotional intelligence: The key to successful pedagogy and student development

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