When students give up on assignments or get overwhelmed, it’s tough to find ways to help them re-engage.

So, I’ve invited Dr. John Spencer of The Creative Classroom podcast to help us uncover 5 brain-based ways to help kids who shut down in class.

John is a former middle school teacher and current college professor on a quest to transform schools into places of creativity and wonder.

Read or listen in as John and I explore how to:

• Intentionally cultivate self-empowerment (the ability to self-regulate and self-direct)
• Introduce creative constraints when kids are overwhelmed
• Use the gradual release model to slowly acclimate students to more self-directed work
• Think diagnostically, looking for root causes beyond those related to behavior
• Call impromptu workshops when you notice a significant number of students struggling

No time now? Subscribe to Angela Watson’s Truth for Teachers in your favorite podcast app, and listen on the go.

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Here’s a few highlights from my conversation with John ...

"It’s not about having a ton of tools in your toolbox. You just need a few that really work, like pulling students aside for a quick workshop when they’re stuck."

"AI is a game-changer. Tools like ChatGPT or MagicSchool can tutor students, scaffold their learning, and simplify instructions—allowing you to focus on more personalized support."

Want more on this topic?

This is an issue that's personal to me, as I've shared on the podcast before: I was a disengaged student who nearly failed high school. Having caring teachers and other adults who didn't give up allowed me to find my way in my own time.

You might also like these articles + podcast episodes:

• A fresh approach to supporting students who are disengaged and task-avoidant
• When students don’t want to think for themselves or put in effort, try this.

And, if you want a simple system for introducing students to metacognitive skills so they can work with (not against) the brain's natural tendencies ...

Check out Finding Flow Solutions, my gr. K-12 curriculum for helping students manage their time, energy, and attention. Browse all units here, including a FREE set of lessons to teach students how to find their flow state and get focused. School purchase orders are accepted--just reply to this email for pricing.

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Enjoy!

Angela

Angela Watson Stay connected on social media: ​​​​​​

P.O. Box 175, Bushkill, PA 18324
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