In this episode, we’re tackling a challenge every early childhood teacher faces: what to do when a student refuses to work. Whether it’s ignoring directions, sitting with arms crossed, or simply saying “no,” these moments can be tricky and emotionally draining. But there’s a way through that builds connection and cooperation.

You’ll learn:

• Why refusal might be happening (hint: it’s not always defiance!)
• What to say and do in the moment to shift power struggles
• A must-try phrase that opens the door to student choice and cooperation
• How to keep your boundaries while staying calm and supportive

💡 This episode is packed with strategies you can use right away, especially if you've ever felt stuck or unsure of how to respond.

🧠 Want to go deeper? Check out the related blog post:
👉 Must-Try Tip for When a Student Refuses to Work

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The Happy Teaching Podcast with The Kindergarten Connection is the go-to podcast for Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers who want simple, effective, and joyful teaching strategies—fast!

Hosted by Alex John, this bite-sized podcast delivers classroom management tips, engaging lesson ideas, and real-life solutions you can implement immediately. Whether you're looking to create smoother routines, build stronger student connections, or bring more fun into your teaching day, each episode (in ten minutes or less!) is designed to make your job easier and your classroom happier.

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