Free Printable: 30 Logical Consequences for Student Behavior

Here’s what to say, so you can start following through in the moment.

logical consequenceslogical

You know when a student does something wrong and you throw out a consequence that you really can’t follow up on? Yeah, me too. I always wish for good, logical consequences to have on hand before the moment has passed. To be honest, I really want school-wide logical consequences that everyone can access. That’s why I’m excited about this free logical consequences printable for regular behavior infractions. Print them, forward them, share them with your staff.

What are logical consequences?

Logical consequences are those created and imposed by an adult and associated with a student’s poor choice or behavior. For example, “Because you lied to me about using the iPad, you will not be allowed to use the iPad for the next three days,”

Choosing reasonable consequences

It is important to make sure that logical consequences are reasonable and related to a problem and let both the child and the adult retain their self-respect. When students make poor choices, it’s tempting to dole out a punitive punishment for such behavior. Instead, consider turning the situation into a teachable moment with a logical consequence that is related to the issue at hand.

You can print, copy, and cut the sections for each school location. Then laminate and give them to all your teachers. Voila! School-wide logical consequences everyone can access.

In the classroom

These are choices you can offer students who misbehave during classroom time. I know I’ll be frequently be saying, “You can use this item respectfully or use your own materials from here on out.”

In the hallways

It’s amazing how many times I see kids running top speed through the halls. Now I’ll remember to say things like, “You can come back and walk safely with the other students, or I can walk with you to ensure you’re being safe.”

In the lunchroom

Giving lunchroom staff ways to dole out choices and consequences without worry gives me great relief. I can see them saying, “You can either clean up your own mess or help clean up the cafeteria during recess.”

At recess

Often kids get so riled up during recess they make mistakes that can create safety issues and upset feelings. I’m so glad to give recess-duty teachers things to say like, “You can welcome everyone, or you can play on your own.”

On a field trip

Helping chaperones know what to say when they are monitoring children’s behavior is going to be amazing. I can feel so good about telling them it’s okay to say, “You can either apologize immediately or spend time with a chaperone, writing an apology.”

Knowing what to say in the heat of a moment can be tricky. Having the right words at the right time in the moment will change that game.

ADVERTISEMENT

Yes! I Want My Printable: Logical Consequences

Join the great conversations going on about school leadership in our Facebook groups at Principal Life.

Also, check out How to Conquer School Bus Misbehavior for Good.