#81: 3 common mistakes that fuel low-level disruptions, and the immediate fixes that transform behaviour!

The Unteachables Podcast

Take the quiz - What's your teacher type?! (Putting this right up top because I know that's why you came to the description)
In today's episode I’ll be walking you through three mistakes you might unknowingly be making that can fuel these low-level behaviour spotfires. Now, I say “might be,” but let’s be real—after observing hundreds of lessons, I can tell you with certainty that these sneaky habits tend to creep into even the most experienced classrooms, and yes, I’ve been guilty of them too!

But here’s the good news—once you recognize these patterns and make a few simple adjustments, you’ll start seeing real changes. And let me assure you, I’m sharing this from a place of experience, not perfection. I’ve made all these mistakes myself, and I’m still learning every day. So let’s dive in, get reflective, and find those empowering “ah-ha” moments together!
IN THIS EPISODE, I DISCUSS:

• Why matching the volume of your students can backfire and lead to more disruption
• How talking while expecting students to focus on independent work sends mixed signals
• Why handing out materials during instruction can undo your efforts to get students to listen
• The impact of non-verbal cues and mixed messaging in your classroom management
• Practical tips to reduce low-level behaviours and increase student focus

I hope this episode gives you some clarity and maybe even a few "ah-ha" moments! Remember, every teacher—myself included—has fallen into these traps at some point. The important thing is that you’re aware, and with just a few small tweaks, you can start seeing big shifts in your classroom.

Please don’t feel like you have to be perfect! Teaching is all about growing, learning, and adjusting as we go. If any of these points hit home for you, take it as a sign of progress, not a failure. You’ve got this!

And if you’re ready to dive deeper and tackle low-level behaviours head-on, I’d love to have you join me in the Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp. Together, we’ll work on building a calm, effective teaching presence that fits your natural style, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling empowered. You’re already doing amazing things in the classroom, and this is just one more tool to add to your toolkit!

Thank you so much for listening to

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TAKE THE QUIZ! What is your teacher type, and what does this reveal about your classroom management?
Join The Behaviour Club -The essential training, advice, and community to confidently and calmly tackle all things classroom management.
The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp! - Strengthen your teaching presence and tackle low-level behaviours!
Purchase my book - ‘It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management

Freebies and support:

• Download the free guide: '71 Behaviour Response Prompts'
• Download 3 free regulation breathing cards
• Follow me on Instagram for daily micro-professional learning and support
• Connect with me on LinkedIn

Capitole

1. #81: 3 common mistakes that fuel low-level disruptions, and the immediate fixes that transform behaviour! (00:00:00)

2. Empowering Teachers With Classroom Management (00:00:04)

3. Mastering Non-Verbal Communication in Teaching (00:12:38)

4. Behavior Bootcamp and Support for Teachers (00:18:38)