Behavior Re-Engagement Strategies

Tutors can use the checklist below to ensure they have laid the foundation for effective behavior re-engagement:

• Have I planned clear directions and expectations for every activity?
• Have I planned a full session agenda, including extension activities, in case students finish early?
• Have I selected engaging, relevant, and inclusive materials that reflect students’ interests and identities?
• Have I spent time building relationships and getting to know my students?
• Have I co-created and reinforced explicit behavioral norms with all students?

Tutors can use these strategies to maintain engagement and re-engage students when needed:

• Am I actively monitoring student engagement through verbal and non-verbal cues?
• Am I using positive narration to acknowledge desired behaviors and redirect off-task behaviors?
• Am I incorporating frequent opportunities for students to participate actively (e.g., quick responses, movement breaks, checks for understanding)?
• When engagement dips, am I re-engaging students by connecting tasks to their interests, adjusting pacing, or offering choices?
• Am I maintaining a calm, supportive tone when redirecting behavior to preserve student dignity and trust?

Tutors can use the following strategies to strengthen future engagement:

• Have I reflected on moments where student engagement dropped and identified possible causes?
• Have I provided students with positive feedback on behaviors they exhibited well?
• Have I adjusted future session plans based on patterns in engagement and behavior?
• Have I documented re-engagement strategies that worked well for specific students to inform future planning?