We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Will Herr

As teachers, we all want our classes to be filled with happy children learning English. And we know it takes many different skills, such as classroom management skills, to make that happen. These skills keep our classes organized so our students know what do and how to succeed so everyone (including the teacher. ) can have a great time in class. And, they're especially important in early childhood English as a Foreign/Second Language (EFL/ESL) classes because preschool children have to learn in a language they don't always understand.

Master Early Childhood Education Classroom Management for Awesome English Classes

Read more

As teachers, we all want our classes to be filled with happy children learning English. And we know it takes many different skills, such as classroom management skills, to make that happen. These skills keep our classes organized so our students know what do and how to succeed so everyone (including the teacher. ) can have a great time in class. And, they're especially important in early childhood English as a Foreign/Second Language (EFL/ESL) classes because preschool children have to learn in a language they don't always understand.

Master Early Childhood Education Classroom Management for Awesome English Classes

In this course you will:

  • learn what children between the ages of 3 and 6 years old need, how they develop, and how this affects their behavior in class.

  • discover how to build great relationships with and among your Very Young Learners (VYLs).

  • identify how to use routines, rules, praise, and behavior management systems so your preschool students know how to get along well in class.

  • learn how to arrange your classroom and lesson time to maximize good behavior

  • learn how to handle times when children make mistakes and how to help them to do better.

I designed this course to help new and experienced English teachers use positive, practical, and effective techniques so all of their students have a chance to enjoy learning in their classes. For example, you will learn how to structure your lessons to balance your students' energy levels, organize routines to make your lessons flow smoothly, and even give instructions so everyone is on the same page.

However, this is not a entry-level Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification course. It does not include sections on topics like how to teach vocabulary, grammar, or skills like reading and writing.

I have also arranged this course so you can watch it in any order you like, so pick and choose the sections that are most interesting to you.

After a short introduction of the instructor and the course, the first section will cover what makes this group of students unique. It will also cover what important information about your students and teaching context you will need to find out and consider for yourself. The next section will cover the 5 Basic Needs and how this relate to small children.  Later sections will then cover practical information about building rapport, developing and using routines, and creating effective lessons and learning spaces. The last major section will cover how to handle poor behavior, with a focus on a few case studies. All of this information and techniques will work for classes of 5 to 45 students.

This course also includes informative handouts and questions for you to consider. By the end of this course you will have had the opportunity to think through many key issues, choose solutions, and develop a classroom management plan for yourself.

By the end of this course, you will have all the tools you need to create a great, well-run class for your students so everyone can successfully learn.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn the basics of classroom management and behavior management theory to work successfully in early childhood education
  • Learn the 5 basic needs from choice theory and important points of early child development
  • Learn what makes young children misbehave and how to help them make better choices and succeed
  • Learn how to use routines and systems so students know what to do and how to be successful in class
  • Learn useful teacher traits, habits, and mindsets so you can positively influence your very young learners

Syllabus

Introduction
Welcome to the Course!
Lecturer Introduction
Four Key Questions for the Course
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores Choice Theory, which provides a framework for understanding student behavior and addressing their needs in the classroom
Covers strategies for building rapport with students, which is essential for creating a positive and supportive learning environment
Examines classroom setup and management techniques, which can help teachers create a structured and engaging learning space
Focuses on techniques applicable to class sizes ranging from 5 to 45 students, making it adaptable to various teaching contexts
Does not cover fundamental TEFL topics like vocabulary, grammar, or skills, so learners should already have a basic understanding of these areas
Includes case studies of misbehavior, which can help teachers develop practical strategies for addressing challenging situations

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Classroom management for preschool efl/esl

According to learners, this course provides highly practical strategies and actionable tips specifically for managing preschool EFL/ESL classrooms (ages 3-6). Students appreciate the focus on understanding very young learners' development and needs, finding the insights valuable for addressing behavior effectively. Reviewers highlight the useful techniques for establishing routines, implementing positive behavior management systems, and creating an effective classroom environment. While comprehensive in its focus, students note the course concentrates solely on classroom management and is not a substitute for a full TEFL certification covering broader teaching methodologies. Overall, it is seen as a valuable resource for teachers working with this specific age group.
Specific to management, not full TEFL.
"As stated in the description, it's purely classroom management, not a full TEFL certificate."
"Good for adding a specific skill to my toolkit, but won't teach me how to teach grammar or vocabulary."
"Appreciate the clear scope and focus of the course; it delivers on its specific promise."
Tailored specifically for 3-6 year olds.
"Content felt specifically designed for very young learners aged 3-6, which is exactly what I needed."
"Examples and strategies were appropriate and highly relevant for teaching this particular age group."
"Perfectly matched the needs and challenges of teaching preschool ESL/EFL students."
Explains child development relevant to behavior.
"Gaining insight into the 3-6 age group's needs and development stages was invaluable."
"Helped me understand the reasons behind certain behaviors from a child development perspective."
"The information on VYL characteristics felt spot on and directly applicable to my students."
Offers actionable tips for classroom management.
"The course gave me so many practical ideas I could use right away in my classroom."
"Found the techniques for routines and transitions incredibly helpful for structuring my lessons."
"Concrete examples made applying the strategies easy and effective in my daily teaching."
Addresses handling misbehavior effectively.
"Excellent section on handling misbehavior positively and proactively."
"The case studies were realistic and very helpful for managing discipline in class."
"Learned effective ways to encourage good behavior and address challenging moments."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Classroom Management for Teaching Preschool EFL/ESL (3-6yrs) with these activities:
Review Child Development Theories
Strengthen your understanding of child development theories to better understand the behaviors of preschool EFL/ESL learners.
Browse courses on Child Development
Show steps
  • Identify key developmental milestones for ages 3-6.
  • Summarize the main tenets of Piaget's theory of cognitive development.
  • Describe Erikson's stages of psychosocial development relevant to preschool years.
Read 'Positive Discipline for Preschoolers'
Learn practical strategies for positive discipline in the preschool classroom.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Positive Discipline for Preschoolers'.
  • Read the book, focusing on techniques for managing challenging behaviors.
  • Reflect on how these techniques can be applied in your EFL/ESL classroom.
Create Visual Aids for Routines
Develop visual aids to support routines and procedures in your preschool EFL/ESL classroom.
Show steps
  • Identify key routines in your classroom (e.g., circle time, clean-up).
  • Design visual aids (e.g., picture cards, posters) to illustrate each step in the routine.
  • Incorporate simple English vocabulary into the visual aids.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss Classroom Management Strategies
Share and learn from other teachers' experiences with classroom management in preschool EFL/ESL settings.
Show steps
  • Find a group of fellow teachers or classmates.
  • Share your classroom management plan and solicit feedback.
  • Discuss challenges and successes in implementing different strategies.
Design a Classroom Management Plan
Synthesize course concepts into a personalized classroom management plan for your preschool EFL/ESL setting.
Show steps
  • Define your classroom rules and routines based on course principles.
  • Develop strategies for building rapport with students and encouraging positive peer relationships.
  • Outline your approach to handling misbehavior, including specific interventions.
  • Document your plan in a written format.
Explore 'The Whole-Brain Child'
Gain a deeper understanding of child brain development and its impact on behavior.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Whole-Brain Child'.
  • Read the book, focusing on the concepts of integration and emotional regulation.
  • Reflect on how these concepts can inform your classroom management strategies.
Implement a Behavior Management System
Design and implement a behavior management system in your classroom to promote positive behavior and address misbehavior effectively.
Show steps
  • Choose a behavior management system (e.g., token economy, clip chart).
  • Adapt the system to your specific classroom context and student needs.
  • Introduce the system to your students and consistently implement it.
  • Monitor the effectiveness of the system and make adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Classroom Management for Teaching Preschool EFL/ESL (3-6yrs) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Preschool Teacher
A Preschool Teacher creates engaging and educational experiences for young children. This course helps those in, or aspiring to, the role of Preschool Teacher. To be successful, a Preschool Teacher must understand child development, classroom management, and effective communication strategies. All of these are covered in the course, which helps teachers understand the unique needs of children ages 3 to 6, promoting positive relationships, and managing behavior effectively. The sections covering routines, rules, praise, and handling misbehavior are especially helpful. This course provides a solid foundation for creating an awesome classroom environment.
ESL Teacher
An ESL Teacher specializes in teaching English to students whose first language is not English. This course directly addresses the challenges of managing a classroom of young ESL learners. The course emphasizes the importance of understanding children's unique needs, building rapport, and establishing routines. The course focuses on the needs of very young learners, strategies for managing behavior, and techniques for creating engaging lessons. By taking this course, an ESL Teacher gains valuable tools for creating a positive and effective leaning environment.
Early Childhood Educator
An Early Childhood Educator fosters the cognitive, social, and emotional development of young children. If you are an Early Childhood Educator, you know how important classroom management skills are, and this course offers practical and effective techniques for creating a positive learning environment. The course emphasizes understanding children's needs, building rapport, and establishing routines that promote good behavior. The course's focus on the 5 Basic Needs and strategies for meeting them is exceptionally helpful. This course equips educators with the tools to manage behavior effectively and create a well-run class.
Teaching Assistant
A Teaching Assistant provides support to teachers in the classroom. This course provides valuable insights into classroom management techniques that can enhance their effectiveness. The course covers topics such as understanding children's behavior, building positive relationships, and implementing routines. The discussion of context factors, including teaching assistants themselves, makes this course particularly relevant. The course aids assistants in creating a more orderly learning environment, which allows them to better guide students.
Children's Program Coordinator
A Children's Program Coordinator oversees the development and implementation of programs for young children. A deep understanding of classroom management and child development is paramount, which this course provides. The course's focus on creating effective routines, managing behavior, and building relationships contributes to positive program outcomes. Especially relevant for a Children's Program Coordinator are the lessons on creating effective lessons and learning spaces. This course will help any coordinator create a positive and supportive learning environment.
Childcare Provider
A Childcare Provider is responsible for the care and supervision of children. This course gives a foundation in classroom management and behavior management, which are useful for managing groups of children. The course will cover understanding a child's needs, building relationships with children, and establishing routines. The sections on managing behavior and creating safe learning spaces may be useful for Childcare Providers. The course provides a foundation for creating a safe and supportive environment for young children.
Elementary School Teacher
An Elementary School Teacher educates children in the early grades. The age group covered in this course may be younger than those taught by the average elementary school teacher; nevertheless the course may be useful because it provides techniques to create a well-managed and engaging classroom environment. The course covers topics such as understanding children's needs, building rapport, and managing behavior. The sections on routines, rules, praise, and handling misbehavior may be especially helpful. This course may give a foundation for creating a positive learning environment and promoting student success.
Early Intervention Specialist
An Early Intervention Specialist works with young children who have developmental delays or disabilities. A deeper insight into classroom management techniques and child development can enhance their work. This course covers topics such as understanding children's behavior, building positive relationships, and creating effective routines. This course may help specialists to create supportive and effective learning environments.
Homeschool Teacher
A Homeschool Teacher provides education to children in a home setting. Although the classroom environment is different from a traditional school, this course may improve their instruction. The course can help Homeschool Teachers improve their classroom management at home and improve their teaching style. The course covers topics such as understanding children's needs, building rapport, and establishing routines. This course may give parents greater confidence in their ability to manage their children's education.
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer designs educational materials and programs. A Curriculum Developer needs to be aware of how children learn and how to manage a classroom effectively. This course covers topics such as understanding child development, creating effective lessons, and managing behavior. The course provides valuable insights into how to structure lessons, organize routines, and give instructions effectively. This course may help curriculum developers to create age-appropriate and engaging materials that support children's learning and development.
Educational Consultant
An Educational Consultant provides expert advice and guidance to schools, teachers, and parents. This course may give consultants a framework to help their clients. The course covers topics such as understanding child development, creating effective lessons, and managing behavior. The course will cover creating effective learning spaces. This course may help consultants to provide informed recommendations and support to improve educational outcomes.
Instructional Coordinator
An Instructional Coordinator supports teachers and improves the quality of instruction. This course may give coordinators concrete advice to pass on to their teachers. The course covers topics such as understanding child development, creating effective lessons, and managing behavior. The course's section on creating effective learning spaces may be particularly useful for classroom setup. This course may help coordinators to provide targeted support and guidance to teachers, ultimately improving student learning.
Special Education Teacher
A Special Education Teacher works with students who have special needs. An understanding of classroom environments and child development can greatly improve the learning outcomes of students. This course covers topics such as understanding children's behavior, building positive relationships, and creating effective routines. This course may provide special education teachers with the skills to create supportive and effective learning environments tailored to the unique needs of their students.
Teacher Trainer
A Teacher Trainer develops and delivers training programs for teachers. They need to understand classroom management, teaching techniques, and child development, so that their pupils may master these skills. This course may help Teacher Trainers. The course covers topics such as understanding child development, creating effective lessons, and managing behavior. The course will cover how to effectively manage learning spaces. This course may help Teacher Trainers give valuable insights to their audience.
School Administrator
A School Administrator manages the operations of a school. The more that a School Administrator knows about classroom management, the better they can support the teachers under their supervision. This course may give school administrators a foundation of knowledge. The course covers topics such as understanding child development, creating effective lessons, and managing behavior. The course's section on creating effective learning spaces may be particularly helpful for administrators to consider during classroom setup. This course may give administrators a deeper ability to support teachers in creating positive learning environments.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Classroom Management for Teaching Preschool EFL/ESL (3-6yrs).
Provides practical, positive discipline techniques tailored for preschoolers. It aligns with the course's emphasis on positive and effective classroom management. It offers strategies for understanding and addressing misbehavior in a constructive way. This book valuable resource for implementing the course's principles in real-world classroom scenarios.
Offers insights into child brain development and how it impacts behavior. It provides strategies for communicating with children in a way that fosters emotional intelligence and cooperation. Understanding these concepts can help teachers respond more effectively to challenging behaviors in the classroom. This book provides a deeper understanding of the neurological basis for classroom management techniques.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser