The unexpected can strike in even the best-prepared schools, so it’s helpful to have a good mix of tools and tricks ready to go when you start an assignment. Here are a few ideas that can help in challenging classroom environments.

Tips for effective classroom management for substitute teachers

Start with a strong introduction

The first few minutes in a new classroom are crucial. Be sure to write your name on the board before introducing yourself to the classroom. Confidently and clearly explain the day’s agenda and establish your expectations from the get-go. Let students know that, although you’re new to them, you expect the same level of respect and cooperation they would give their regular teacher. This sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Create a survival pack

When you head out the door, have a bag packed with essentials for the unexpected. Ideas for your sub-survival pack can include:

• A small plastic ball
• Books of short stories or one-minute mysteries
• Pencil puzzles (word finds, etc.)
• Art supplies
• Paper, pencils, and a pencil sharpener

Each classroom has its own personality. If a group is tough, a quiet activity might be required to gain ground and minimize disruption. Once you’ve brought your students down to earth, you may be able to attempt a group activity or classroom game.

Focus on active learning

Students are more likely to behave well when they’re actively engaged in the lesson. Whenever possible, involve students in hands-on activities or discussions. Encourage them to ask questions, share their thoughts, and participate in group work. This not only helps maintain order but also makes the learning experience more meaningful for them.

Use positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement can be a powerful tool in classroom management. Praise students for their efforts and good behavior. Simple acknowledgments like, “I appreciate how quietly everyone is working,” or, “great job following directions,” can go a long way in encouraging a cooperative atmosphere. You might also consider small rewards, such as stickers, extra free time, or a fun activity at the end of the day, to motivate students.

Establish clear rules (and consequences)

It’s important to have clear rules in place, even if you’re only in the classroom for a short time. At the beginning of the day, take a moment to review the classroom rules with students. Make sure they understand what is expected of them and what the consequences will be if they choose not to follow the rules. Consistency is key—stick to the rules you set to maintain order.

Be adaptable

Every classroom is different, and what works in one might not work in another. Be flexible and willing to adapt your approach based on the students’ needs. If you notice that a particular strategy isn’t working, don’t be afraid to switch things up. Sometimes, a simple change in activity or a shift in seating arrangements can make a big difference in behavior.

Keep calm, stay positive 

Students often take cues from their teacher’s demeanor. If you stay calm and positive, even in challenging situations, students are more likely to mirror that behavior. Practice patience, and don’t let minor disruptions throw you off track. Remember, a positive attitude can help defuse potential conflicts and keep the classroom environment supportive and focused.

Expect the unexpected

Despite your best efforts, things don’t always go as planned. That’s why it’s important to have a few backup activities in your back pocket. Whether it’s an extra story to read aloud, a quick game to get students refocused, or a discussion prompt to fill unexpected downtime, being prepared for the unexpected can help you maintain control and keep the day running smoothly.

Substitute teaching can be unpredictable, but with the right strategies, you can create a positive and productive learning environment. Keep these tips in your back pocket for when you need effective classroom management tips throughout your assignments to ensure a successful and smooth experience, no matter where you’re called to teach.

Reading circle

If the classroom is in orbit, a thought-provoking read-aloud be calming. If you are a short-term sub, you can’t start reading a massive novel, but short, engaging reads magically capture the attention of a class. Here are some thought-provoking short stories (for middle and high-school students) that can draw in your listeners and spark lively discussion:

• “Ruthless”
• “The Monkey’s Paw”
• “Lob’s Girl”

Here are books that contain great stories and read-aloud ideas:

• Classics to Read Aloud 
• More Classics to Read Aloud
• The Read-Aloud Handbook 

For younger students (grades K-2), here are some books that will help keep them engaged (since they may get bored during the read-aloud). Afterwards, have students draw a picture and write (as much as they can) about their favorite part of the book or what they learned:

• Click Clack Moo Cows that Type
• Harry the Dirty Dog
• Olivia
• Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
• Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
• A Bad Case of the Stripes
• Chrysanthemum
• Llama llama Red Pajama
• Clifford
• Pete the Cat
• Officer Buckle & Gloria
• Dragons Love Tacos

Creative improvisations

If the class is ready for a group activity, try one of these:

• Ad libs: I have enjoyed these funny fill-in-the-blank stories and have used them with a variety of ages. Also called “Mad Libs,” they are easily available online… or you can write your own! These one-page wonders make grammar practice fun. Depending on class climate, complete these in small groups or in pairs. Read aloud and vote on the winners.
• Story starters: Grab a story starter out of your survival pack or allow the class to write these. For example, give a prompt along the lines of: “Once upon a time, there was a dragon and a bird…” Then, have students finish that story on their own and share it with the class or a partner after everyone has finished. Before starting, set your guidelines and choose a theme for your story, if desired.
• Self Essays: Have students write a paragraph to describe themselves to someone who has never met them. Reading them aloud can be optional.

There are also tons of other valuable classroom resources available online to find more creative ideas for a new classroom.

Classroom games

Even if you have a detailed lesson plan to follow, it’s great to be prepared for rainy-day recess and other unexpected occurrences. Here are some indoor games to try — remember: be sure to keep the classroom quiet and under control.

• Silent ball: Get a small plastic ball out of your survival pack and give it to one student. That student points to another student and sends the ball over. If the student doesn’t catch the ball, they’re out. If a student talks at any time during the game, they’re out. The last one remaining is the winner.
• Four corners: Number the corners in the classroom. One student stands in the middle of the classroom. They close their eyes and count down from 10 to one aloud. Other students choose a corner. Then, the middle person chooses a number from one to four with their eyes still closed. The people in that corner sit down. The game continues until only a few people — or just one person — is left.
• Reverse charades: Teams of players work together to have one person on the team guess as many words as possible in one minute.
• Mirror: Each student gets a partner and they take turns mirroring one another’s movements. The sub can switch partners after a few minutes so that the students have a new person to play with. There is also a version of this game where the kids circle up (with the teacher) and one student stands in the middle. The rest of the class has to mirror whatever that student does. After 2-3 moves, the student picks the next one to be in the middle and it continues.

Try some of these creative ideas on your next day subbing, and you’ll be sure to get ahead.

Not substitute teaching yet and think you have what it takes? Ask yourselves these 10 questions to find out!