Coffee and Whiteboard Markers Podcast
From the front lines of the classroom Myles O'Kane talks all things teaching in these weekly episodes. Hosted from Australia, this podcast dives into the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to teaching. Whether you're a new teacher finding your feet or a seasoned educator looking for fresh ideas, we've got you covered. Tune in and let's make a difference—one lesson at a time!
Coffee and Whiteboard Markers Podcast
Episode 72: The Hardest Lesson: Separating Yourself from Student Behaviour.
Student misbehaviour can feel like a personal attack — even when we know, logically, it’s usually not about us at all. In this episode, we unpack why certain behaviours sting, how to emotionally distance yourself without disengaging, and what it really means to respond as the calm adult in the room.
We explore:
- Why student behaviour feels personal (and why it usually isn’t)
- What’s really going on beneath the surface for students
- How to stay steady instead of reactive
- Practical strategies for separating your identity from their behaviour
- How emotional detachment actually strengthens classroom relationships
Teaching is deeply human work — and sometimes the hardest part is remembering that misbehaviour is communication, not a reflection of your worth.
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