Behavior Management for Elementary School Substitute Teachers
Practical strategies and tips for mastering behavior management in elementary school classrooms as a substitute teacher.
5
Strategies
3
Quick Tips
Elementary School
Grade Level
Why Behavior Management Matters for Elementary School Subs
Behavior Management is one of the most important skills for substitute teachers in elementary school settings. Without the established relationships that regular teachers have, substitutes must rely on strong behavior management techniques from the very first minute.
Practical Strategies
Use a class-wide incentive system like earning marbles in a jar toward a group reward
Give specific praise: 'Thank you for raising your hand, Jordan' instead of generic 'good job'
Implement logical consequences that connect to the behavior rather than blanket punishments
Use a private signal system — a tap on the desk or a hand gesture — to redirect without embarrassment
Allow students to take a self-regulation break before behavior escalates
Common Challenges in Elementary School
One student's behavior triggering a chain reaction in the class
Students tattling constantly on each other throughout the day
Managing behavior during unstructured times like lunch, recess, or transitions
Quick Tips
Catch students being good and make it a big deal — it shifts the entire room's energy
Never take away recess as a punishment; it makes afternoon behavior worse
Keep a calm tone even when frustrated — students mirror the teacher's energy
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Master Behavior Management in the Classroom
Our training courses cover behavior management and other essential skills for elementary school substitute teachers.