Between managing classroom engagement and navigating curriculums, educators have their work cut out for them. There is still much to be done to ensure that students not only excel academically but also develop to become individuals who make an impact in all spheres of society, all while promoting their mental health. How we feel about ourselves and others versus how we interact with our environment play a huge role in who we ultimately become.

These aspects have become greatly influenced by the interactions in the classroom environment. It is therefore critical that teachers be aware of this fact and that there is something that can be done to ensure that students are happy and satisfied in the classroom. You can introduce a relatively new strategy in learning, known as positive psychology.

Psychology Today defines positive Psychology as a “branch of psychology focused on the character strengths and behaviors that allow individuals to build a life of meaning and purpose – to move beyond surviving to flourish.” Positive psychology focuses on fulfillment and seeks to give a sense of purpose to one’s life.

An effective classroom discipline model with room for student engagement creates room for an optimistic approach to progress. Students thrive and produce the best results in a solid classroom structure where they feel safe and included. Positive psychology is a strategy that aims at unlocking one’s full potential.

Here are ways in which we can exploit positive psychology to get the best possible outcomes in the classroom;

To successfully implement any strategy is a firm structure. For the best possible results, there needs to be an established classroom management model that actually works. Otherwise, introducing positive psychology will not have the intended outcome.

A positive approach to discipline- normalizing positive reinforcements such as rewarding disciplined students and those that make an extra effort in the classroom to encourage a culture of positive behavior in the classroom.

1. Giving the students room for expressing themselves creatively, encouraging them to pursue their interests alongside academics through class projects, etc. 
2. Give students a say in classroom matters to make them feel included.
3. Promoting social skills through coming up with group assignments, encouraging oral expressions, and essay writing. This should be done to encourage students to connect with the teacher as well as their peers.
4. Teaching students to be aware and appreciative of one another as well as the present moment. Instilling mindfulness in children is believed to contribute positively to their emotional and social wellbeing. 
5. Understanding each child, knowing their needs, strengths, and weaknesses, and putting emphasis on their strengths. Getting involved in their progress and encouraging them through each step.

All these strategies should be undertaken consistently to ensure that students get the most out of their time in the classroom and consequently thrive.