In the world of education, the innovative teaching method known as “No-Nonsense Nurturing” encourages instructors to concentrate on proper behavior while avoiding the use of the word ‘please.’ This approach seeks to ease the tendency to dwell on students’ missteps and instead highlights their positive actions. The result? A dynamic classroom environment where expectations remain high and praise is thoughtfully allocated.
At Crestview Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, the emphasis is placed on maintaining a disciplined atmosphere with minimal praise. The originator of this concept, former principal Mia Johnson, now leads the Transformative Teacher Training Center, an educational consultancy based in Los Angeles. Since its inception in 2010, the center has partnered with over 300 schools nationwide.
Mia observes that the foundation of this method isn’t revolutionary; rather, it’s a synthesis of techniques witnessed among high-achieving teachers. These educators maintain elevated standards by reserving praise for exceptional efforts. Instead of pointing out how students are failing to meet expectations, the focus shifts to those who are succeeding. For instance, rather than saying a student is doing something incorrectly, a teacher might articulate the correct actions that everyone should be taking: “Your pencil is in your hand. Your voice is at a level zero. If you solved the problem correctly, you are following along and marking your answer. If not, you’re erasing and correcting it on your paper.”
Mia asserts that this method fosters a culture that acknowledges those who are excelling. It also provides clarity for students who may not have fully grasped the instructions, allowing them to hear the guidance without feeling reprimanded.
Teachers like Sarah Bennett at Crestview undergo extensive training to adapt their communication styles. As reported, Sarah recalls, “I used to say, ‘Students, please raise your hand if you…’” only to be interrupted by her mentor, “Stop. ‘Please.’ If you want them to do it, there’s no need for a ‘please.’ Just ask them to do it.” These teachers engage in personalized coaching and receive real-time feedback, which many admit is both challenging and immensely beneficial.
While narrating correct behaviors may feel monotonous or mechanical, it can successfully redirect attention away from negative actions. And should students really receive congratulations for every small, correct action? Research has shown that over-praising can lead to decreased performance in children. Thus, reinforcing appropriate behaviors without excessive acknowledgment prepares them for the real world, where recognition for simply meeting expectations is rare.
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In summary, the No-Nonsense Nurturing approach fosters a focused environment where the emphasis is on positive behaviors and high expectations. By minimizing excessive praise and nurturing a disciplined atmosphere, teachers can effectively guide students toward success.