4 Types of Student Behavior Teachers Misread (And what to do…and say…instead)

In classrooms, behavior is always communication. Every question, every outburst, every quiet moment tells us something about a child’s needs. Over the years of coaching teachers and observing students in real moments, I’ve noticed that most student behavior falls into four broad patterns.

Understanding these patterns helps teachers respond with empathy, clarity, and confidence — and know how to praise and correct students in ways that truly support growth.

1. Golden Retrievers – The Attention Seekers

Some students crave connection and recognition. They want to be noticed, celebrated, and praised. Sometimes it can feel exhausting — like no matter how much attention you give, it’s never enough.

What works:

• Praise publicly for accomplishments or effort.

• Correct privately, with care.

• Offer small responsibilities to channel their energy positively.

Golden Retrievers aren’t trying to be disruptive. They just want to know they matter.

Tip for teachers:

I’ve created tools to make this easier — like my BISON Classroom Visual Bundle, which includes ready-to-use ideas for recognition, affirmations, and brag tags that fit naturally into classroom routines.

2. Chihuahuas – The Impulsive Students

Other students act before they think. They may react quickly, become frustrated when expectations shift, and seem to have endless energy. These children aren’t difficult — they’re responding instinctively to the world around them.

What works:

• Praise publicly for effort and small successes.

• Correct privately, calmly, and clearly.

• Offer flexibility in how they complete tasks or allow short breaks.

Impulsive students need guidance and patience, not punishment. Their energy can be powerful when it’s supported thoughtfully.

3. Basset Hounds – The Avoiders

Some students quietly withdraw. They may appear unmotivated, disengaged, or unsure of themselves. Their silence often signals that they’ve lost confidence or hope.

What works:

• Praise privately for curiosity, effort, or small achievements.

• Correct privately with encouragement, inviting them to try again.

• Celebrate incremental progress to help them build confidence.

Even a quiet word of encouragement can make a student feel seen, capable, and ready to engage.

Tip for teachers:

If you want examples for how to praise quietly and consistently, the BISON Classroom Visual Bundle has ideas you can implement immediately. And if you’re curious how other teachers handle these avoiders, our Facebook community is full of examples and support in real time.

4. Pit Bulls – The Power Seekers

Some students push back, question directions, or test boundaries. Their behavior can feel personal or confrontational, but underneath is a need to feel safe and in control.

What works:

• Praise privately for choices that show effort or cooperation.

• Correct privately, calmly, without argument.

• Offer small choices to give them a sense of control.

  
  

Power-seeking students aren’t trying to frustrate you — they’re trying to find safety and predictability in the classroom.

The Heart of Praise and Correction

Across all four types:

• Praise publicly when it motivates connection and effort

• Correct privately to avoid escalation and preserve dignity

  
  

The goal isn’t perfect behavior — it’s noticing, understanding, and responding in ways that support growth. When we approach students with curiosity and patience, we see not only behavior but the child behind it.

Bringing It All Together

Every classroom is full of unique students, each with their own story. Recognizing these four types of behavior — Golden Retrievers, Chihuahuas, Basset Hounds, Pit Bulls — is just the start.

The real magic happens when teachers pair understanding with tools that help celebrate effort, acknowledge growth, and encourage connection.

• That’s why I created the BISON Classroom Visual Bundle — full of ideas for praise, brag tags, and affirmations that help you put these insights into practice without stress.

  
  

• And if you ever wonder, “How do I apply this to my classroom today?”, our Becoming The BISON Facebook community is a space where teachers share strategies, ask questions, and support one another in real time. It’s where the conversation continues — and you don’t have to figure it out alone.

  
  

When teachers praise and correct thoughtfully, classrooms change. Students feel seen. Teachers feel capable. Learning becomes possible for everyone.

And that's what it means to Be Intentional So Others Notice®.