Lighten up

Throughout a typical day, there are always children who need constant reminders to remain in their seat, focus, work together, use "inside voices", and so on. Instead of punishing these children for the little quirks that make them unique, or repeatedly speaking to them, this is a great way to contribute to the entire classroom. Every time a child is spoken to for misbehaving or performing one of the above mentioned behaviors, they simply would pick a piece of paper from this jar. Inside of the jar, on each slip of paper, is a different task that they would need to complete before the end of the day. Each slip of paper contains a task regarding performing a polite duty within the classroom, such as handing back papers for the teacher, complimenting a classmate, helping another student clean up, and so forth. Because the child is not actually being punished, simply helping out and contributing to the environment of the classroom, the entire class learns to help each other out. Instead of always yelling at a student for small disruptions (especially ones that some students have difficulty controlling), this idea allows them to chose from this jar of deeds which helps them remember what behaviors they did that were undesired and shape positive behaviors. All together I think this is a positive way to help children learn manners, be polite, and build a positive classroom environment that encourages learning for all.