Learn to gain their respect

Learn to smile if it doesn’t come naturally. A smile is one of the most universally disarming gestures that is effective just about all the time. Who knows, the students might even learn to smile back or heaven forbid to even smile first.

Learn their names. Everyone likes to be recognized and called by name. It makes them feel special and important. You might consider maintaining a list of first names only, to help in recalling names. It is worth the effort. As they get on the bus say ‘good morning’ or ‘hey’. Anything to verify that you know they are there. It goes toward recognition and it also goes toward accountability. As they get off the bus say ‘see you’ or ‘bye’ or ‘adios’. Younger kids love nicknames. Make it a good nickname, not derogatory. I had one little boy whose name I kept forgetting and having grown embarrassed for asking his name so many times, I just gave him a nickname that even I could remember. He was so pleased.