Do people still do this? As a teacher, sometimes the little 2nd graders can be loud and disruptive and can't quiet down. Do you like the quiet chair method? If not, what method do you use. As an example, this morning as I was teaching a lesson, a girl was constantly whispering to her friend so I simply said Mia, will you please go sit in the quiet chair? Not saying it doesn't work, but should I update my method?
Time outs are used frequently and are probably the easiest way to solve the problem. I agree with Lily that the first step might be to separate students who can't leave each other alone, but if that fails the quiet chair is a good option. The child can still observe the lesson but can't really bother anyone else. I think the VERY first step should be a seating chart. You should know by now which pairs or small groups don't work well, and make sure that they don't get the chance to act out. Sitting with friends is a privilege that has to be earned in my classes.
Yes, it still is used. Quiet Chair is a nicer name than Time Out Chair and better understood by a 2nd grader. If you have the children together on a rug by your story chair, insist that all are quiet and ready to listen before you begin a story. Hands on own lap, voices off. Do this for lessons, too. If they talk when they shouldn't, give a warning. Then have child move further away if on the floor or move the desk a bit to increase personal space. Then the child moves to the Quiet Chair. Loud and disruptive is just not acceptable during lessons time. If this is a recurring problem, add a step to your morning attendance and calendar routine. Review the class rules - even if you have to do it every day for a week. Emphasize what you expect for storytime and lessons. 1-2-3- eyes on me, and a frequently repeated rule in my room, Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself. This is our expectation. That makes it more a matter of breaking the rule, not just making the teacher mad (which I try not to do). We stop and recite the rule to get back on track.
