For the Classroom

Self-Control

Managing my impulses to make steady progress toward my goals

Self-control helps students and educators manage emotions and choices effectively.

When calm responses replace impulsive reactions, classrooms become safer and more productive. Self-control supports positive behavior and learning.

Essay

The Popcorn Kids

by Jill Tomey

Years ago, I substituted in an elementary-grade classroom. I referred to it as teaching popcorn kids. I do not believe there was ever a time when all students were seated at the same time. There was never quiet, and distractions were the norm. The lack of self-control on the part of the students made for an exhausting day that tested the self-control of this substitute.

The classroom is a dynamic environment full of diverse needs, opinions, backgrounds, skills, and attitudes. Self-control is essential. When students can self-manage emotions, impulses, and attention, it fuels individual and collective success. It empowers students to navigate distractions and persevere through challenges to unlock their full potential as learners. When students can self-regulate, they are less likely to engage in disruptive behavior, creating a classroom where everyone feels safe and respected.

Self-control equips students with valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom walls. By practicing self-discipline, managing impulses, and delaying gratification, students develop essential tools for navigating the challenges and opportunities they will encounter throughout their lives.

How will you model and encourage Self-Control?

Affirmations for the Classroom

I focus on what I can do.
I can take a breath and make a good choice.
I walk away from things that aren’t good for me.
I know that wanting something doesn’t mean I get it.I
can stay calm, even when I feel excited or upset.

Self-Control Resource Library

The Links below will take you to Resources like activities, lessons, reflections, tools, and visuals you can use in the classroom or in homeschool to teach the Character Quality of Self-Control.

Featured

Reading List Roundup: Self-Control Picture Books

A curated reading list for teaching Self-Control—plus a printable download and a link to the full Self-Control bookshelf on Goodreads.

Self-Control as a Core Value

Descriptions of Self-control as a Core Value and how the other qualities support it.

Self-Control as a Sidekick Quality

Descriptions of how Self-Control supports the other qualities.

Fun with Character: A Habit of Self-Control

Use this exercise to explain that Self‑control requires noticing those automatic responses before acting on them. When students fold their arms the first time, they don’t think. That’s how impulses work: fast, automatic, comfortable.

Fun with Character: Be A STAR

Help students master the art of the pause with the "Be A STAR" acronym: Stop, Think, and then React. Through creative group scenarios and role-playing, children practice slowing down their impulses to choose positive responses over regrettable ones.

Fun with Character: Control

Is the noise in control, or are you? This simple yet effective "Stop and Go" game helps students realize that they have the ultimate power over their own physical and emotional responses. By practicing how to react or not react to external cues, children build the confidence needed to maintain Self-Control even in challenging situations.

Family Character Clubhouse: Soda Pop

A family activity on Self-control. Includes a download that teachers can send home with their students.

Connecting Self-Control to the Science Curriculum

Use concept of the environment from your Science curriculum to teach Self-Control

Picture Book Pick: You Are Your Strong

A featured Self-Control picture book—You Are Your Strong—with a read-along link and ready-to-use classroom discussion questions.

No Matter How You Say It: Self-Control

A quick language-and-meaning snapshot of Self-Control, showing the word origins, sign language, and common idioms anyone can discuss.

Self-Control Quotes

Looking for reminders that Self-Control makes a difference? Explore the full collection of Self-Control Quotes and find the perfect line to share, post, or spark a conversation.

Quotes

Celebrate Character Qualities All Month

Use the holidays this month to celebrate our other qualities.

Featured

Juneteenth Activity

A simple Juneteenth activity.

June Character All Month

A list of classic and quirky holidays in June and their connection to a variety of character qualities.

Summersgiving

A simple Summersgiving activity.

Build Community in Your Classroom

Try these activities!

Featured

Getting to Know You: Fortunately, Unfortunately

This lighthearted Team Building activity uses stories to encourage people to express their identity and values in a fun, creative way—boosting connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging within any group or organization. Spark fun dialogue and collaboration, and help participants practice quick thinking, positive interaction, and group energy.

Getting to Know You: Read All About it!

This lighthearted Team Building activity uses paper to encourage people to express their identity and values in a fun, creative way—boosting connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging within any group or organization. Spark fun dialogue and collaboration, and help participants practice quick thinking, positive interaction, and group energy.

Self-Control

Managing my impulses to make steady progress toward my goals

Self-control helps students and educators manage emotions and choices effectively.

The Popcorn Kids

How will you model and encourage Self-Control?

Affirmations for the Classroom

Self-Control Resource Library

Self-Control Quotes

Celebrate Character Qualities All Month

Build Community in Your Classroom

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