How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Using their name

Disciplines > Teaching > Classroom management > Using their name

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Put in the effort to memorize the names of all your children. Then regularly use their names when talking with them, for example:

Greet them by name when they come in to the class.
Say their name when you want their attention.
Use their name when you are praising them.

Example

Now, Jamil, I have been impressed with how well you have behaved today. Are you going to get a gold star, Jamil? That would be nice.

Discussion

A person's name is a core part of their identity. When you say their name, it is like a flash of lightning in their brain and they will be compelled to pay attention.

It is important to use their name when praising them as well as when you are scolding them, otherwise they will associate your saying their name with negativity. They want their name to be positive and the thought of it being always negative may well lead to more negative behavior.