A Teacher's Ruminations

Have you ever had an uncomfortable encounter with a student who was defiant and disrespectful? I have, and on more than one occasion. I am always shocked when this happens because I feel that I am the opposite, or at least I try to be. When it seems that I'm not, then I apologize and try to make amends. I've been thinking about this lately because perhaps I'm too easy on kids when they behave inappropriately. I talk too much and explain things too carefully. Maybe, I need to be a little firmer when these situations arise. Fewer words and zero tolerance. Of course, we all make mistakes, including me, so there's always the opportunity to make amends. But, when students are recalcitrant and have no regrets for their actions, I worry. It makes me think that there's a powder keg in there ready to explode. How can I help a student like this reflect on his or her actions in order to make retribution? How can we help children learn how to handle emotions and t...