Are you looking for ways to support students who do not appear to be happy? If so, keep reading.

1. Make sure that reinforcement is not inadvertently given when the learner does not smile, laugh, or demonstrate happiness (e.g., paying attention to the learner only when they show unhappiness).

2. Dissuade the learner from engaging in those learning activities that cause them unhappiness.

3. Provide the learner additional duties (e.g., chores, errands, etc.) to give them a feeling of success or accomplishment.

4. Help the learner find things they wish were in their surroundings and work with the learner toward these goals.

5. Always treat the learner with the utmost respect. Talk objectively at all times.

6. Let the learner attempt something new in private before doing so in front of others.

7. Urge the learner to interact with others.

8. Give the learner frequent chances to meet new people.

9. Do not force the learner to interact with others.

10. Convey your feelings in a socially acceptable way.

11. Assess the appropriateness of the task to ascertain (a) if the task is too complicated and (b) if the duration of time scheduled to finish the task is appropriate.

12. Connect with parents, agencies, or appropriate parties to inform them of the problem, identify the cause of the problem, and discuss potential solutions to the problem.

13. Praise those students in the classroom who take part in classroom learning activities or special activities.

14. Urge the learner to take part in classroom learning activities or special activities.

15. Praise the learner for demonstrating happiness when appropriate: (a) give the learner a concrete reward (e.g., privileges such as leading the line, handing out learning materials, 10 minutes of free time, etc.) or (b) give the learner an informal reward (e.g., praise, handshake, smile, etc.).

16. Consider using an adaptive behavior management app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

17. Click here to learn about six bonus strategies for challenging problem behaviors and mastering classroom management.

18. Consider using a socio-emotional learning app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

19. Consider using an emotional intelligence app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

20. Consider using a school counseling app. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.