Episode Details
Back to Episodes#157: "What if I just realllly don’t like a student?!" How to teach a kid you find really dang triggering and unlikeable.
Description
Here’s a spicy but honest truth: sometimes, we don’t like every student we teach.
And while we’re trauma-informed, values-driven, compassionate educators — we’re also human. And navigating complex behaviour, bullying, defiance, or students who constantly derail your lessons? It takes a toll.
In this episode, I’m opening up the very real conversation about what to do when you find a student… unlikable. (Gasp!) I’m giving you the validation, language, and mindset shifts to acknowledge that feeling without acting from it. You’ll learn how to stay professional, regulated, and credible — while still honouring your experience.
Because let’s be clear: you can not like a student and still be a bloody great teacher to them.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why it’s normal (and not shameful) to feel disconnected from certain students
- How your personal triggers affect classroom dynamics
- What to do when you lose objectivity or patience with “that” student
- The quiet ways your feelings show up — and what to do about them
- Mindset shifts to stay regulated, empathetic, and in control
- Strategies to slowly build bridges (even when it feels impossible)
Have a question, comment, or just want to say hello? Drop us a text!
RESOURCES AND MORE SUPPORT:
- Shop all resources
- Join The Behaviour Club
- My book! It’s Never Just About the Behaviour: A holistic approach to classroom behaviour management
- The Low-Level Behaviour Bootcamp
- Free guide: 'Chats that Create Change'
Connect with me:
- Follow on Instagram @the.unteachables
- Check out my website