By Scott Ervin, Tribune News Service

Dear Kid Whisperer,

I teach third-grade. I have had Behavioral Leadership training and I use Strategic Noticing, ESPN Greetings, etc. I have a student in my class who just wants to read (not the worst thing) but she wants to read and not do work. I made her stay in from recess to practice. She became angry, plugged her ears and started throwing stuff. I left her alone. Other kids are also watching her sit and read and they now want to do the same thing. I could really use some help.

Answer: First, telling students to get to work, and especially badgering them on this point, is a tactical mistake. Savvy students are aware that adults can’t make them do work, and savvy students who are also brave take advantage of this knowledge to inevitably win power

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