After a short 2-hour training, Tools Not Rules can be used the next day! All you need is a set of poster to get started! It is the most affordable and easy to use approach on the market.
You are not your behavior, BUT it might be getting in the way.
We are separating the BEHAVIOR from the STUDENT.
The TNR Program
Tools Not Rules is an approach to productively address student behavior to increase academic achievement and increase student connection. The TNR language helps students identify their current behavior and assess if another would be more productive. It consists of 3 groups of triads; 6 of the words which are less productive and 3 that allow us to get into the zone of effective learning. The key is for the student to self-identify and reflect, with no judgment or emotional overlay from the teacher.
Creating ‘honest’ interactions is at the center of this model. Due to this, the possibility of true change is more readily available. When students realize shame will not be part of the interaction, they are willing to put down their protective armor that is often a part of difficult behaviors. They are willing to speak the truth, own what is driving them, and choose a different approach.
By using all 3 triads with a focus on ‘honesty above anything else’, all students benefit from this exchange.
It helps our ‘fast-lane learners’ because they get more honest about their own behaviors. Often positioned to be perfect students, they are able to see their own shirking or silliness. This keeps our highest performers from quitting when things get hard. With TNR, they are now part of the classroom community discussion around behavior, self-assessment, and making different choices if needed.
As seasoned teachers, we can say unequivocally that teaching is exhilarating and difficult. Student behaviors are outpacing our interventions, and we need a different approach.
TNR gives us all an honest opportunity to think about what we are doing and change our behavior for different outcomes. TNR emboldens teachers who are not sure what to say, and tempers those who might say too much when working with the new paradigm of student behaviors.
TNR works in a host of arenas: elementary, middle, high, and college.
How To Implement
The Tools Not Rules program is easily implemented in a classroom. Teachers need a set of posters, training on how to use the language and strategies for teaching students how the language operates. We are excited to work with you to get Tools Not Rules in action to make a difference for you students and your teaching happiness.
Once trained in the philosophy and approach, implementation is very simple. You will be given a presentation to walk through with your students. Introducing and practicing the language can be rolled out in small lessons over a couple of weeks. Everything is made clear and easy to follow!
Our training sessions include:
instruction in the philosophy behind TNR that allows this program to shift mindsets and experiences 4-6 hours
a set up of posters that can be used in your classroom the very next day
Tools Not Rules Book (pending publication, 2023)
From that point on, you will just need to provide opportunities for students to regularly self-assess and practice using the language. It is that straightforward! Positive results will be felt immediately.
Please contact us for pricing.
