Are you looking for ways to teach students not to make inappropriate comments to teachers? If so, keep reading.

1. Talk with the learner about ways to deal with unpleasant experiences that would typically cause them to use obscene language (e.g., talk to the teacher, go to a quiet area in the room, visit a counselor, etc.).

2. Make sure that positive reinforcement is not inadvertently given for unacceptable language (e.g., paying attention to the learner only when they are using profane or obscene language).

3. Provide a predetermined signal (e.g., hand signal, oral signal, etc.) when the learner begins to use unacceptable language.

4. Address the learner calmly and deliberately rather than in a manner that would show evidence of shock and surprise.

5. Model using appropriate language at all times (e.g., use appropriate language to express disappointment, unhappiness, surprise, etc.).

6. Teach the learner appropriate words or phrases to use in situations of anger, stress, frustration, etc.

7. Get the learner to question any directions, explanations, or instructions they do not understand.

8. Intervene early and often when unacceptable behavior occurs to prevent the behavior from becoming more severe. Deliberate interventions may prevent future problems.

9. Refrain from arguing with the learner.

10. Do not embarrass the learner by giving them orders, requirements, etc., in front of others.

11. Always treat the learner with the utmost respect. Converse with the learner in an objective and professional manner at all times.

12. Do not ignore the learner’s unacceptable behavior. Ignored behavior may increase in frequency and may lead to contagion on the part of other students.

13. Refrain from confrontations with the learner that lead to unacceptable behavior on the part of the learner (e.g., give the learner options for alternative tasks, other times to perform tasks, assistance in performing tasks, etc.).

14. Create a routine (schedule) of learning activities and tasks for the learner so they know what to expect at all times.

15. Assess the appropriateness of the task concerning the learner’s capacity and ability to perform the task.

16. Consider using a classroom management app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

17. Consider using an adaptive behavior management app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

18. Consider using Alexa to help the student learn to behave appropriately. Click here to read an article that we wrote on the subject.

19. Click here to learn about six bonus strategies for challenging problem behaviors and mastering classroom management.