One of the things we have to do on the first day of school is to talk about school rules and safety. First, we make together a list of rules the kids think we should have in our class. I always get lots of "no hitting, no pushing, no spitting" responses. I list all of their ideas on a Language Experience chart, using different colored markers on
alternating lines. After we discuss their ideas for a few minutes, we talk about our school official rules and, also, the rules in our classroom. I have the following poem on a chart paper, attached to the front chalkboard all year long:
We raise our hands to speak.
We work quietly at our seats.
We use voices soft and sweet.
We keep our places tidy and neat.
We are helpful, friendly, and fair.
We take turns and willingly share.
We usually agree on the following rules for our class: Be nice. Do what you know is right. Those two rules seem to cover most situations, and they're easy to remember. I add three other important rules:
1. Listen to the teacher and follow directions.
2. Do not interrupt Mrs. Smith when she is working with another student unless you are having a "B Emergency." B Emergencies are bathroom, blood, and barf. The kids love this rule, and it's one they respect from the very beginning. No one has ever had an "accident" in my classroom, after learning this rule.
3. Only Mrs. Smith may use the classroom sink. Students must go to the restroom to wash their hands and get
drinks. I have this rule so that I will have a sanitary place to wash and disinfect my hands, which keeps me from catching their colds and runny noses.