Their Best Behavior

Find peace in the classroom with practical strategies for managing student behavior challenges

In Their Best Behavior: Practical Strategies for 10 Common Classroom Challenges, seasoned educator Allie Szczecinski presents a lifeline for teachers overwhelmed by disruptive classroom behavior. The book addresses common problems and offers concrete, actionable strategies based on special education principles to manage student behavior effectively. With examples drawn from real-life classroom scenarios, Szczecinski illustrates how to diffuse disruptions and foster an environment conducive to learning.

This invaluable guide transcends typical behavior management tactics by focusing on child-affirming and teacher-centric approaches. From tackling common issues like backtalk and aggression to handling work refusal and disengagement, Their Best Behavior equips you with the tools you need to restore calm and order to your classrooms.

Inside the book:

• Gain insights into managing the ten most common elementary classroom behavior challenges
• Learn techniques backed by special education principles for a wide range of elementary settings
• Discover strategies that go beyond punitive measures to create a supportive and effective classroom environment

Their Best Behavior is an essential read for elementary school teachers seeking support and strategies to manage challenging classroom behavior. Special education teachers, school leaders, and educators in need of practical solutions will find this book an instrumental resource in their professional development journey, helping them to foster a positive and productive learning atmosphere.

Introduction ix

Chapter 1 Eloping 1

Chapter 2 Back Talk 17

Chapter 3 School Refusal 37

Chapter 4 Helplessness 59

Chapter 5 Disruptive Behavior 81

Chapter 6 Anxiety 105

Chapter 7 Aggression 133

Chapter 8 Inattention 157

Chapter 9 Dishonesty 181

Chapter 10 Bullying 203

Chapter 11 The Elephant in the Room 225

Acknowledgments 233

About the Author 235

References 237

Index 239

Allie Szczecinski, M.Ed., is a veteran educator with 15 years’ experience in special education and social emotional learning. She is the owner and founder of Miss Behavior, an online platform that shares tips, strategies, and resources for teachers focusing on student behavior. She is also the author of Roaring Mad Riley.

Create a peaceful and productive classroom with practical strategies for managing student behavior

“All behavior is biology. I so appreciate how Allie intentionally shares what lies beneath behaviors we often misunderstand through case studies, observations, collaborations and thoughtful reflections. This is a book for all educators who sit beside children carrying complex and challenging behaviors into the classroom with nervous systems that are often wired for protection!”
—LORI L DESAUTELS, PhD, Assistant Professor, Butler University College of Education

“Their Best Behavior is a modern, essential guide for educators navigating challenging classroom behaviors with empathy and clarity. Allie offers what every teacher needs in their toolbox—practical, trauma-informed strategies that not only help address behaviors but also prioritize emotional wellness for both students and teachers. This empowering resource should be mandatory reading for all educators.”
—CALLIE CHRISTENSEN, special education teacher, co-founder of Slumberkins, and co-author of All Feelings Welcome

“Allie tackles behavioral challenges with empathy for both students and teachers. Their Best Behavior provides the practical, concrete strategies teachers need to help students and themselves.”
—SARAH FORST, The Designer Teacher and author of The Teacher’s Guide to Self-Care

“Their Best Behavior is a must-have handbook for educators seeking to confidently address challenging classroom behaviors. With a deep understanding of diverse student needs and the reality that one size doesn’t fit all, Allie Szczecinski empowers teachers by blending foundational theory with actionable strategies to build a supportive, effective classroom management system that also prioritizes teachers’ well-being.”
—DANIELLE DIESTL, Namaste in School

"For those just beginning their teaching careers or those navigating the everyday struggles of managing classroom behavior, this book is for you. It's a guide, a toolkit, and a source of inspiration. Most importantly, it's a reminder that teaching is a calling, and by caring for both our students and ourselves, we can rise to meet that call with passion, purpose, and lasting impact."
—Rozy Patel, Director of Mentoring, Teacher Development, and Alumni Relations, Golden Apple Foundation

“All behavior is biology. I so appreciate how Allie intentionally shares what lies beneath behaviors we often misunderstand through case studies, observations, collaborations and thoughtful reflections. This is a book for all educators who sit beside children carrying complex and challenging behaviors into the classroom with nervous systems that are often wired for protection!”
—Lori L Desautels, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Butler University College of Education

"Their Best Behavior is a modern, essential guide for educators navigating challenging classroom behaviors with empathy and clarity. Allie offers what every teacher needs in their toolbox—practical, trauma-informed strategies that not only help address behaviors but also prioritize emotional wellness for both students and teachers. This empowering resource should be mandatory reading for all educators.”
—Callie Christensen, special education teacher, co-founder of Slumberkins, and co-author of All Feelings Welcome

"Allie tackles behavioral challenges with empathy for both students and teachers. Their Best Behavior provides the practical, concrete strategies teachers need to help students and themselves."
—Sarah Forst, The Designer Teacher, Author of The Teacher's Guide to Self-Care

"Their Best Behavior is a must-have handbook for educators seeking to confidently address challenging classroom behaviors. With a deep understanding of diverse student needs and the reality that one size doesn’t fit all, Allie Szczecinski empowers teachers by blending foundational theory with actionable strategies to build a supportive, effective classroom management system that also prioritizes teachers' well-being."
—Danielle Diestl, Namaste In School