EP317 It’s never just about the behavior (with Claire English from The Unteachables)

Angela Watson's Truth for Teachers

What if the key to managing challenging student behavior isn’t about "fixing" the kids—but about regulating yourself? In this episode, we explore a sustainable approach to classroom management that shifts the focus to what you can control. Join me and my guest, Claire, as we discuss how self-regulation empowers teachers to create calmer, more effective learning environments while building trust and healthier responses in students.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

• Why traditional behavior management strategies often fall short.
• How self-regulation in teachers sets the tone for the entire classroom.
• The role of neuroscience in understanding student behavior and stress responses.
• Practical strategies for co-regulation and creating micro-moments of connection.
• Why “fixing” student behavior isn’t your job—and what you can do instead.
• How to craft an “island of safety” in your classroom, even without strong school-wide support.
• Tools and systems to help students develop self-regulation skills.
• Tips for avoiding burnout and emotional exhaustion when working with extreme behaviors.

Discover how small, intentional shifts in your mindset and practice can make a big impact. Whether you’re a new teacher feeling overwhelmed or a seasoned educator looking for fresh ideas, this episode is full of practical insights to help you guide behavior sustainably—without carrying the weight of fixing everything.

Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.