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Throwing Objects
Strategies to Consider:
When observing a child throw something in class, you must be keenly aware of the child's behaviors leading up to the point of throwing something. If you are a substitute or new teacher, you may not have any history for this student's previous behaviors. So for this moment in time, you will need to first discern the child's temperament - anger or play. Do not overreact.
Play - It is not unusual for students to toss things having underestimated their gross motor skills. If this appears to be the case, do not overreact to the moment. The child may recoil and be surprised at his/her own actions. You may not have to speak at all as the child might quickly pick up the item and find a seat. At this point, it is a good idea to reinforce your relationship with the child and share a thank you and applaud the choice to take a seat. Whatever you do, avoid sarcasm and be very sincere and positive.
Anger - If, however, the child is throwing an object in anger, your response may be altogether different. Regardless of how long you have been teaching or working with children, it is imperative that you view the child's behavior as a cry for help. Quickly determine if the child has an IEP or 504 Plan that may provide next steps to help deescalate the child (if not, you should be aware of IEP plans before the class arrives).
- Avoid your initial reaction to be punitive or negative.
- Gauge what is angering the student (social conflict, academic frustration, feelings brought in to this space from outside the classroom).
- If the student continues throwing things placing other students in danger, you may consider removing the other students into the hallway and sending for another adult.
- If the student immediately calms down after throwing the object, quietly and sympathetically ask the student to step into the hallway with you.
- Your steps should be with intention to help problem solve - share an alternative behavior instead of throwing.
- Finally, be aware of school policy and consequences for such choices. For students who may not have a supporting IEP with Behavior Support Plan, these consequences will apply.