Are you looking for how to stop students from tattling all the time in the classroom? Is tattling driving you insane these days? I don’t know about you but it seems like as soon as we’re settled and ready to start learning, the tattling begins and continues ALL DAY LONG. “He hit me.” “She took my spot!” It is enough to drive you crazy! Luckily I’ve got some easy and fun ways to stop the tattling before it begins. Students will learn exactly what tattling is and what we can do instead. So if you’re ready for the tattling to stop for good, let’s dive in!
Back to the Basics
First things first, do students even know the difference between tattling and telling? We may think they do, but they may not. It’s important to spend time explicitly teaching and modeling the differences for students. So what’s a good definition? Take a look at some of our favorite anchor charts below. You can print and display these for students, or even project and trace them! They provide visuals to help with student understanding and can stay on display in the classroom as long as needed.
Practice Scenarios on Tattling
When learning how to stop students from tattling, one thing students may need more support with is practicing different scenarios. After discussing the anchor charts, it’s time to practice. We love completing a whole-class sort and discussing the differences between tattling and telling. After we practice as a whole group, it’s time for partner and individual practice. Take a look at some of the no-prep printables students can complete to truly master this skill!
Students will get fine motor practice cutting and coloring the different examples deciphering between when to tell and when to solve their own problem. They can write about a time they might feel like tattling and what they can do instead. You can even create your own mini-book as a class for students to keep when they need a reminder. They will love practicing with all the engaging activities and know EXACTLY what the difference is between tattling and telling. Grab the mini-book FREE by subscribing below!
Stop Tattling with Tattle Turtle
Do you notice that students are STILL tattling after all your practice? It might be time to implement a tattle box and/or tattle turtle. Sometimes, students feel that every little issue is a big problem. If students are still struggling, no problem! Simply give them a safe space to share! You can easily create your own tattle box and turtle for students. They can still share, but it doesn’t interrupt you or take up learning time. Use the tattle forms with the turtle and let them write or whisper what’s happening. The forms are easy for you to review and reach out to students if they need a follow-up. You can also learn more about teaching problem-solving HERE!
One thing I have found that also really helps, is channeling the need to share about others into something positive. Teach students how to give shout outs so they are looking for the positive instead of the negative. You can grab the bucket filler freebies below!
Books About Tattling
Children’s literature can be a great support when teaching students the importance of how tattling and interrupting hurts others. Books open up great discussions on why it is important to be respectful to those who are speaking. Using read alouds are an awesome strategy in helping to stop student tattling and blurting because the stories are relatable. See a list of some of our favorites!
Don’t Squeal Unless it’s a Big Deal
Diamond Rattle Loves to Tattle
Tackle Tattling by Getting Crafty
Of course, we must show off all our new learning with an adorable craft that pairs perfectly with Don’t Squeal unless it’s a Big Deal! Students will love completing their craft and writing about what they can do instead of tattling. Bonus: It looks great on the bulletin board!
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I hope you enjoyed learning about tips and tricks on how to stop students from tattling and to help your students thrive! Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list! Not only will you get the most up to date tips, tricks, how to videos, and classroom projects… also of course more fun FREEBIES including the mini-book FREEBIE! You will also have exclusive access to tons of digital how to videos! If you would like to learn about this and other things happening in my classroom follow me @sweetnsauerfirsties on Instagram.
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