Teacher Tip: Negative Children
More from Children's Ministry Magazine
-
Walking Wounded: Children in Pain
By Jennifer Hooks
-
10 Things That'll Ruin A Children's Ministry
By Walter Norvell
-
21 Outreach Ideas for Kids
By Selma Johnson
-
7 Traits of Effective Children's Leadership
By Craig Jutila
A negative child often seeks love and craves attention. A negative attitude, though, can disrupt your classroom, hinder learning and put an uncomfortable cloud over your entire class. Minimize classroom negativity and create a positive atmosphere with these practical helps.
Love – Show the child God's love through every word and action. Don't exclude a child because of her negative attitude. Set firm boundaries and let her know you expect positive behavior. Praise her for her efforts to overcome her negative attitude. Pray with her to show her you and God love her very much.
Eliminate – Don't allow negativity to breed negativity. Immediately stop any negative comments and put-downs before things escalate. Eliminate "downtime" by keeping the negative child busy. Have him help you before, during and after class. Praise him for his efforts, such as sharpening pencils, completing the lesson project or listening carefully.
Listen – Correct the child away from the other children. Give her your undivided attention. Let her know you understand, care and want to help. Most of all, let her know God loves her unconditionally. 
Print versionMore from Children's Ministry Magazine or visit Children's Ministry at childrensministry.com
Newest Videos 
WATCH: Why Introverted Leaders Have Better Outcomes
Susan Cain, author of "Quiet: The Power of Introverts," shares a powerful secret of introvert leaders.
Sponsored Links
The Bible Miniseries for Churches »