Aussie Childcare Network Forum

Hi I am currently working as a casual educator and I am going to study a post graduate degree to become a preschool teacher. My concern is when I asked children to stop doing something, for example running around inside, they don't listen. I have a soft voice and when I try to sound firm it for suit me. Any suggestions of how to gain children respect?

Hi,

As a preschool teacher, you have a lot of patience and your soft voice is very useful in dealing with children. First of all gain the attention of children, attract them with your teaching skills. Children are very soft-minded, teach them different interesting activities.

Then they will pay attention to you, once children got attracted to you and your soft voice they will listen to you and give respect to you everywhere.
So, you can rock as a preschool teacher, we wish you all the best.

Hope this is helpful to you.

Thank You.

Sometimes, children become very naughty and do not listen to us. It happens. Please do not overstressed.

Set clear rules and limits and make sure your child understands those rules.
Sometime, a “refusal” is a consequence of not understanding. Though it may not be in your case.

Convey the rules firmly.

Use consistent, logical consequences.

Listen to your child's feelings and ask them kindly rather than in anger what's going on.

Spend more time teaching love than teaching rules

Be a leader.

Stay with integrity

Treat like a family

Reward good behaviour

Give plenty of choices

Give transition time when changing activities.

These will help them to show respect to you and gradually they will start to listen to you.

Thanks
Nandita

When I was starting out, I had a similar struggle. I found that being consistent and using positive reinforcement really helped. For instance, I used to lead a storytime session, and some kids would get too rowdy. I started praising the ones who were sitting quietly, and gradually, others followed suit.

Hi there! Gaining respect and effectively managing behavior can be tough, especially when you naturally have a softer voice. One approach is to focus on confident body language and clear, consistent communication. Try getting down to the child’s eye level and using their name to catch their attention before giving instructions. Even with a softer voice, you can use a firm, calm tone to show you mean what you say. Visual cues or fun hand signals can also reinforce your words without needing to raise your voice. Positive reinforcement goes a long way too—praise kids when they listen or follow instructions to encourage that behavior.