Welcome to the first episode of the Beyond Behaviours series, where I'm sharing quick and actionable steps to help you create a conscious classroom that feels safe, structured, and supportive from day one.

This episode is all about routines and expectations—the essential building blocks for a classroom where children feel secure and ready to learn.

If you've ever struggled with behaviours spiralling out of control or felt like your classroom just wasn't flowing, this is where you need to start.

Here's what you'll take away from this episode:

• Why routines and expectations are the backbone of every successful classroom.
• How to create consistency and predictability to help children feel safe.
• The difference between routines and expectations—and why you need both.
• Why co-developing expectations with your class builds connection and engagement.
• How revisiting and practising routines all term long sets your classroom up for long-term success.
• Simple ways to get clear on your routines before the school year starts.

Free Resources for Teachers

• Download the Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step. From routines to displays, lesson planning, and classroom organisation, this checklist will save you time and stress.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode

If you're ready to dig deeper into creating a classroom that's trauma-informed, non-punitive, and built on connection, Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle. It's packed with 10 guides (including one on routines and expectations) and bonus tools to help you implement strategies that actually work. Only $47.

See you next week for episode two, where we'll focus on setting up your classroom and learning environment.

Connect with Em

• Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
• Instagram: @em_gentle
• LinkedIn